Segment:
Subcompact car, competing in a highly competitive segment known for affordability, fuel efficiency, and practicality.
Key Competitors:
Hyundai Accent, Ford Fiesta, Honda Fit, Chevrolet Sonic, Toyota Yaris
Vehicle Strengths:
Value for money, stylish design (for its class), decent fuel economy, good warranty coverage, and surprisingly spacious interior for a subcompact.
Benefit To Owner:
Empowers owners and independent mechanics with the official factory information needed for accurate diagnosis, efficient repair, and proper maintenance, saving time and money.
Powertrain:
Engine Mechanical, Engine Control System (GDI), Fuel System, Lubrication System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Ignition System
Drivetrain:
Transmission (Manual & Automatic), Driveline, Axles, Clutch (Manual)
Chassis:
Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Brake System (Hydraulic & Parking)
Electrical:
Battery, Charging System, Starting System, Lighting System, Instrument Cluster, HVAC Controls, Power Accessories (Windows, Locks, Mirrors), Audio System, Wiper/Washer System, SRS (Airbag) System, Body Control Module (BCM), CAN Communication Network
Body:
Exterior Body Panels, Interior Trim, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Bumpers, Glass
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance (Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Checks), Inspections, Tune-ups
Repair:
Component Removal & Installation, Overhaul Procedures, Component Diagnostics & Troubleshooting
Diagnostics:
Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Symptom-Based Troubleshooting, Wiring Diagrams, Component Testing
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic fluid changes to full engine/transmission rebuilds and complex electrical diagnostics
Diagnostics Level:
Advanced, including scan tool data interpretation and component-level troubleshooting
Special Tools:
Identification of necessary special tools for specific repair procedures
Engine Type:
Inline 4-cylinder, Naturally Aspirated
Displacement:
1.6 Liters (1591 cc)
Valvetrain:
DOHC, 16 Valves, Dual CVVT (Continuously Variable Valve Timing)
Bore X Stroke:
77.0 mm x 85.4 mm
Compression Ratio:
11.0:1
Horsepower:
138 hp @ 6300 rpm (approx.)
Torque:
123 lb-ft @ 4850 rpm (approx.)
Fuel Delivery:
Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 Octane Recommended)
ECU Model:
Refer to manual for specific ECU part numbers (e.g., Kefico CUBIC)
Type:
6-Speed Manual Transmission
Type:
6-Speed Automatic Transmission with Shiftronic (Gate-type shifter with manual override capability)
Automatic Features:
Electronically controlled, adaptive shift logic
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-85 (Check manual for exact Kia P/N)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Kia SP-IV (or equivalent)
Wheelbase:
101.2 inches (2570 mm)
Length:
Sedan: 171.7 inches (4360 mm), Hatchback: 160.9 inches (4085 mm)
Width:
68.1 inches (1730 mm)
Height:
Sedan: 57.3 inches (1455 mm), Hatchback: 57.1 inches (1450 mm)
Sedan Trunk Volume:
13.7 cubic feet
Hatchback Cargo Volume:
15.1 cubic feet (behind rear seats), 48.4 cubic feet (with rear seats folded)
Curb Weight Range:
Approx. 2500 - 2750 lbs (depending on trim and transmission)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Refer to vehicle VIN plate or manual for specific GVWR
NHTSA Overall Rating:
4 Stars (2013 Model Year, check for specific configurations)
IIHS Ratings:
Good in front, side, and rear impact tests; Acceptable in roof strength (check specific tests)
Braking:
Front Ventilated Discs, Rear Solid Discs; Available Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Stability Control:
Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Traction Control System (TCS), Hill-start Assist Control (HAC) - standard on most trims
Airbags:
Dual Frontal Airbags, Front Side-Impact Airbags, Side Curtain Airbags (Front & Rear)
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters, LATCH child seat anchors
Rollover Protection:
Reinforced body structure
Head Unit Features:
Standard AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio system, optional UVO infotainment system (depending on trim/package), Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling and audio streaming.
Display Options:
Central display for audio and climate controls, optional touchscreen display for UVO system.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most trims.
Rear View Camera:
Optional on certain trims, often integrated with UVO system.
Usb Aux Ports:
Standard on most trims, for audio playback and charging.
Telematics System:
Optional Kia UVO system offering advanced features like voice commands, telematics, and diagnostic alerts.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (with synthetic oil). Check manual for severe driving conditions.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months, or as needed based on driving environment.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months.
Coolant Replacement:
Initial replacement at 100,000 miles, then every 50,000 miles thereafter (using Kia's specified coolant, e.g., Super Long Life Coolant).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Iridium type, typically at 105,000 miles.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 0W-20, API SN or higher, ILSAC GF-5 certified synthetic oil recommended.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.5 US quarts (4.3 liters) with filter change.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Power Steering Fluid:
Refer to manual (often proprietary Kia fluid or compatible automatic transmission fluid).
Common Complaints:
Occasional reports of oil consumption (check piston ring issues), premature brake wear, minor electrical gremlins, and some transmission shudder (especially in early automatics). The GDI system can be prone to carbon buildup on intake valves if not maintained properly.
Gdi Carbon Buildup Prevention:
Regular use of quality fuel, occasional use of fuel system cleaners, and ensuring proper engine oil changes can help mitigate carbon buildup.
Manufacturer:
Kia Corporation, South Korea
Rio Lineage:
The Rio is Kia's long-standing subcompact model, known for its affordability and gradual improvement in quality and features over generations.
Third Gen Introduction:
Introduced for the 2012 model year, the third generation (UB) represented a significant leap in design, refinement, and technology over its predecessor.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primary assembly often in South Korea (e.g., Gwangmyeong), with potential for other global assembly plants.