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Kia Rio Hatchback (2001-2005) running costs and reliability

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Running costs rating: 3 out of 53.0

Written by Parkers Published: 6 June 2019

Miles per pound (mpp)

Reliable fuel consumption data for comparison purposes is not available for this model.

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Fuel economy

A more stringent standard for fuel economy (WLTP) was introduced from September 2017, and this model was not required to undergo that test. Its fuel economy measured under the previous test system was 32 - 44 mpg. However these figures are less likely to be achievable in real world driving and so should never be compared to another car's mpg which was measured under the newer, more realistic WLTP system.

View mpg & specs for any version

Engines are reasonably economical and five-year warranty is excellent. Cheap insurance, but horrific depreciation and tempting ‘£1 deposit’ finance deal has high APR and might prove costly in the end.

Rio performs well on the eco front. With an average of 164 g/km CO2 across the model line-up, its emissions are relatively low for a small family hatchback. It’s worth noting that the line-up does not feature any diesel models, which typically produce less carbon dioxide than petrol engines with similar power outputs. Eco-conscious buyers should consider the 1.3-litre petrol, which is one of the greenest models in the range.

The range is also fairly economical, averaging 39 mpg.

Kia generally build reliable cars – the 3-year warranty bears this out (a five-year extended warranty is optional), but interior build quality is disappointing. Most will have an easy life so will be reliable if looked after.