Segment:
Subcompact (B-segment) hatchback and sedan.
Key Competitors:
Hyundai Accent, Ford Fiesta, Chevrolet Sonic, Honda Fit, Toyota Yaris, Nissan Versa.
Vehicle Strengths:
Affordability, fuel efficiency, surprisingly spacious interior for its class, decent ride comfort, available hatchback practicality.
Target Audience:
Professional mechanics, DIY enthusiasts, fleet maintenance personnel.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanicals, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system.
Drivetrain:
Transmission (manual and automatic), clutch, driveshafts, differentials, axles.
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, brakes (hydraulic and parking), wheels and tires.
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instruments, body electricals, power accessories, infotainment, HVAC electrical controls.
Body:
Body panels, doors, windows, interior trim, bumpers, body sealing, corrosion protection.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, inspections.
Repair:
Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, brake system repair, suspension component replacement, electrical component diagnosis and repair.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), testing procedures for sensors and actuators, wiring diagrams.
Specifications:
Torque specifications for fasteners, fluid capacities, component measurements, alignment data.
Depth:
Detailed step-by-step repair procedures, diagnostic flowcharts, exploded views, wiring schematics, special tool recommendations.
Engine Type:
Naturally aspirated inline-4 cylinder
Engine Codes:
G4FA (1.4L MPI), G4FC (1.6L Gamma MPI)
Displacement:
1.4-liter (1396 cc) and 1.6-liter (1591 cc)
Horsepower:
Approx. 107 hp (1.4L) / 138 hp (1.6L) at 6300 RPM
Torque:
Approx. 97 lb-ft (1.4L) / 123 lb-ft (1.6L) at 4200/5000 RPM
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point fuel injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Valvetrain:
DOHC (Dual Overhead Camshafts) with CVVT (Continuously Variable Valve Timing)
Transmission Type Std:
5-speed manual transmission
Transmission Type Opt:
4-speed automatic transmission (4AT) or 6-speed automatic transmission (6AT) on some variants.
Clutch Type:
Single dry plate (for manual)
Transmission Fluid Spec:
Refer to manual for specific type (e.g., Diaqueen SP-III for automatic).
NHTSA Overall Rating:
4 out of 5 stars (for applicable models)
IIHS Ratings:
Good in most categories (check specific model year for Top Safety Pick status)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with EBD (Electronic Brake-force Distribution)
Esc:
Standard Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and Traction Control System (TCS)
Airbags:
Front airbags, front side-impact airbags, side curtain airbags (standard on most trims).
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters, LATCH child seat anchors.
Infotainment System:
Available UVO infotainment system, AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio with SiriusXM, USB/Auxiliary input jacks, Bluetooth connectivity.
Display Size:
Typically 4.3-inch or 7-inch touchscreen depending on trim and options.
Parking Assist:
Optional rearview camera, sometimes with parking sensors.
Cruise Control:
Available cruise control.
Phone Integration:
Bluetooth hands-free phone and audio streaming.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500 miles or 6 months, or 3,750 miles under severe driving conditions (refer to manual for exact recommendation).
Air Filter Replacement:
Recommended every 30,000 miles or as needed.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically iridium spark plugs, recommended at 100,000 miles.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-20 or 5W-30 API SN or ILSAC GF-5 certified (check manual for exact recommendation).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant, typically long-life (e.g., HOAT - Hybrid Organic Acid Technology), color varies.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check manual for specification).
Common Complaints:
Occasional reports of minor electrical gremlins, clutch wear in high-mileage manual transmissions, and potential for brake noise. Some early models might have experienced minor engine oil consumption issues.
Maintenance Tips:
Regularly check tire pressure, inspect brake pads and rotors, and follow the recommended service schedule to ensure longevity.
Manufacturer:
Kia Corporation, South Korea.
Generation Introduction:
The third generation Rio (UB) was unveiled at the 2011 New York International Auto Show, with a European launch later that year and North American launch for the 2012 model year. The 2014 model represents a mid-cycle refresh for this generation.
Assembly Locations:
Various Kia plants globally, including South Korea (Gwangmyeong), Mexico (Pesquería), and others depending on market.
