2003 Kia Rio RS 1.5
Summary:
The KIA Rio is good, basic transportation that gets you from point A to point B without a fuss
Faults:
The battery was dead the day after delivery, and would not hold a charge. Had to really pester the dealer to give us a new battery.
After getting a flat tire, I discovered the dealer failed to supply a lug wrench. The Rio's lug nuts are a non-standard size.
Overall, I have been unsatisfied with the local KIA dealer here in Venezuela.
General Comments:
My wife loves "her" KIA. I like it too. It is a good car for the money.
We have taken several cross-country trips across Venezuela in this car. It has proven to be comfortable, reliable and economical (11 km/liter in the city).
The Latin American model is definitely different from the North American model. Style-wise and engine-wise, it would be a 2002 model in North America, but here was marketed and sold as a 2003. Also, the Latin American RS model is very basic with only a radio and air conditioning. There are no air bags. We did have the dealer install a stereo/CD player and after-market aluminum wheels.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 21st September, 2005