2003 Kia Rio Review

　　

zzdcar' Expert Review

by the zzdcar Experts

　　

What’s new

　　For 2003, Kia gives the Rio a number of upgrades. Among these are a new 104-horsepower 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine; various suspension tweaks to improve ride and handling; larger disc brakes; new engine mounts and exhaust tuning for a quieter cabin; and reinforcements to the steering wheel and column to minimize vibration. Inside, look for revisions to the instrument cluster, center console and door panels -- the latter will include storage bins and bottle holders -- as well as new seat fabric. New standard features include child-seat anchors, rear heater ducts, auto-off headlights, variable intermittent wipers and, on the wagon only, a CD player. In addition, Kia has added dual map lights and a sunglasses case to the sedan's Upgrade Package, and will offer the Power Package, which provides power windows and locks. Finally, both Rios get fresh front fascias and wheel covers; the sedan gets a sharper-looking tail and the wagon gets an optional body-color spoiler.

　　

zzdcar says

　　The Rio and Rio Cinco are the lowest priced sedan and wagon on the market, and they feel that way. Buy one only if you must have a new-car warranty; otherwise, spend your money on a nice used car -- preferably a Japanese compact or a Hyundai Elantra.

　　

2003 Rio Highlights

Type: SedanWagonWagon

　　

Base MSRP	$11,165
Engine Type	Gas
Combined MPG	26 MPG
Cost to Drive	$145/month
Seating	5 seats
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place	24.8 cu.ft.
Drivetrain	front wheel drive
Warranty	5 years / 60,000 miles