Market Position:
Entry-level subcompact car, positioned as an affordable and practical option for first-time car buyers and budget-conscious consumers.
Competitive Analysis:
Competed with other subcompacts like the Hyundai Accent, Chevrolet Aveo, Ford Fiesta, and Toyota Yaris. Known for its value proposition and practicality.
Key Features:
Fuel efficiency, compact size for urban maneuverability, affordable pricing, decent interior space for its class, straightforward mechanicals.
Systems Covered:
Engine mechanical, Engine electrical, Fuel system, Cooling system, Exhaust system, Ignition system, Starting system, Charging system, Automatic transmission, Manual transmission, Drivetrain, Axles, Suspension (front and rear), Steering system, Brake system (front and rear), ABS, Body electrical, HVAC system, Body panels, Interior trim, Exterior trim, Diagnostics, Troubleshooting, Emissions control
Body And Chassis:
Includes procedures for body panel removal/installation, glass replacement, interior trim, and basic chassis component repair.
Procedures Included:
Routine maintenance, Scheduled maintenance, Component removal and installation, Overhaul procedures, Diagnostic flowcharts, Troubleshooting steps, Repair instructions, Wiring diagrams, Exploded views, Torque specifications, Special tool recommendations
Engine Repair:
Detailed instructions for engine disassembly, inspection, component replacement (pistons, rings, bearings, valves, etc.), and reassembly for both G4EA and G4EC variants.
Transmission Repair:
Includes overhaul procedures for both manual and automatic transmissions, including clutch replacement, gear train inspection, hydraulic system diagnosis for automatics.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive (from basic fluid changes and filter replacements to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, electrical system diagnostics, and body repair)
Electrical Diagnostics:
Comprehensive wiring diagrams, fuse/relay locations, and diagnostic procedures for all electrical systems, including lighting, power accessories, and engine control.
Engine Displacement:
1.5 Liter
Engine Configuration:
Inline 4-Cylinder
Engine Codes:
G4EA (1.3L), G4EC (1.5L)
Engine Description G4Ea:
1.3L SOHC Inline-4, producing approximately 82 hp.
Engine Description G4Ec:
1.5L DOHC Inline-4, producing approximately 95 hp.
Horsepower 1 5L:
95 hp @ 6000 rpm (approximate)
Torque 1 5L:
132 Nm @ 3000 rpm (approximate)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
ECU Type:
ECU (Engine Control Unit) with diagnostic capabilities
Transmission Type Standard:
5-Speed Manual Transmission
Transmission Type Optional:
4-Speed Automatic Transmission
Transmission Fluid Type:
API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 (Manual), ATF SP-III (Automatic)
Length:
4,110 mm (161.8 in)
Width:
1,680 mm (66.1 in)
Height:
1,405 mm (55.3 in)
Wheelbase:
2,440 mm (96.1 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1050 kg (2315 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight:
Approx. 1490 kg (3285 lbs)
Passenger Volume:
Approx. 88 cu ft
Cargo Volume Rear Seats Up:
Approx. 12.9 cu ft
Cargo Volume Rear Seats Down:
Approx. 30 cu ft (with hatchback variant)
NHTSA Front Impact Rating:
Not rated or 3-star (varies by market and specific test)
IIHS Small Overlap Front:
Not tested
ABS:
Optional on some trims
Traction Control:
Not commonly available
Airbags:
Front airbags standard on most models
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners
Infotainment System:
Basic AM/FM/CD stereo with optional cassette player and external auxiliary input on some higher trims.
Speaker Configuration:
Typically 4 or 6 speakers
Driver Assistance Features:
Limited to basic safety systems; advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) are not present.
Connectivity Options:
No Bluetooth or USB connectivity; limited to analog audio input if equipped.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles or 6 months (whichever comes first)
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (standard plugs), 60,000 miles (platinum plugs if equipped)
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or higher, SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 3.5 Liters (3.7 US Quarts) with filter
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant (e.g., Hyundai/Kia Super Long Life Coolant)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Power Steering Fluid:
Dexron III or equivalent ATF
Washer Fluid:
Water-based washer fluid
Common Issues:
CV joint wear, suspension component wear (bushings, ball joints), catalytic converter failure, occasional electrical gremlins, interior trim rattles.
Diagnostic Challenges:
OBD-II codes related to emissions, misfires, and sensor failures are common points for diagnosis.
Brand Heritage:
Kia, a South Korean automaker, has a history of producing practical and affordable vehicles, expanding its global presence significantly in the early 2000s.
Model Evolution:
The first-generation Kia Rio (DC) was introduced in 2000 and was a crucial model in establishing Kia's foothold in the subcompact segment worldwide. The 2004 model represents a mid-cycle refresh or specific market configuration of this generation.
Production Years First Gen:
2000-2005
Manufacturing Locations:
South Korea, Malaysia, Vietnam
