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July 30, 2026Short & citedBlog
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How It Works • Automotive

Kia Rio

The Kia Rio is a subcompact car sold by Kia in sedan and hatchback body styles across various markets.

Updated July 30, 20261 min readCited sources

The Kia Rio is a subcompact car offered as a sedan or hatchback, positioned as Kia's entry-level model in markets like the United States. It has been discontinued in some regions, but remains a budget-friendly option where available.

What it is

The Kia Rio is a subcompact passenger car sold below larger Kia models. It has been produced across several generations, with both sedan and hatchback body styles depending on the market. In the U.S., the 2023 model was available in LX and S trims.

Pricing and market position

In the U.S., the 2023 Rio started at $16,750 MSRP for the LX and $17,390 for the S. Used prices vary widely by year, mileage, and condition, with examples ranging from about $3,995 to $17,590. The Rio typically sees substantial depreciation, common for economy subcompacts.

Key details

The 2023 U.S. Rio achieves an EPA combined fuel economy of 36 mpg, powered by a 1.6L GDI four-cylinder engine with a six-speed automatic. Reliability is generally considered adequate for a budget car, but used buyers should check for wear and model-year-specific issues via VIN and service history.

In short

  • Entry-level subcompact available as sedan or hatchback.
  • 2023 U.S. MSRP from $16,750 to $17,390.
  • EPA fuel economy of 36 mpg combined.
  • Used prices vary significantly; depreciation is typical.
Canadian angle

Kia Rio models have been available in Canada in various years and trims, and Canadian readers may encounter different pricing, fuel-economy figures, and availability than U.S. listings due to market-specific equipment and model-year changes.

Quick questions

How much is a Kia Rio?
Prices vary by year, trim, and market. In the U.S., the 2023 Rio started at $16,750 MSRP, while used examples commonly range much lower depending on condition and mileage.
How many miles per gallon does Kia Rio get?
EPA-listed fuel economy for the 2023 U.S. Rio is 36 mpg combined. Other markets and trims report different figures.
Is Kia Rio a good car?
The Rio is generally viewed as a practical, affordable subcompact with low running costs. Whether it is a good choice depends on priorities such as budget, size, and expected equipment level.

Sources

  1. Kia Media — https://www.kiamedia.com/us/en/models/rio/2023/pricing
    Supports: 2023 U.S. MSRP for Rio LX and S trims.
  2. Consumer Reports — https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/kia/rio/
    Supports: Retail price and EPA MPG for the 2023 Kia Rio.
  3. Kelley Blue Book — https://www.kbb.com/kia/rio/
    Supports: Used and current pricing estimates, depreciation, and resale values for the 2023 Kia Rio.
  4. CarGurus — https://www.cargurus.com/research/price-trends/Kia-Rio-d159
    Supports: Average used Kia Rio price trends and current market pricing.
  5. CarsGuide — https://www.carsguide.com.au/kia/rio/price/2024
    Supports: 2024 Kia Rio pricing in Australia.
  6. CarExpert — https://www.carexpert.com.au/kia/rio/price-and-specs
    Supports: 2025 Kia Rio pricing in Australia.
  7. Kia of Cerritos — https://www.kiacerritos.com/new-vehicles/rio/
    Supports: Dealer-listed U.S. Rio price and fuel-economy claim.
  8. Cars.com — https://www.cars.com/research/kia-rio/
    Supports: MSRP range and model-year research for the Kia Rio.