CARFOCALvehicle research
Research CarsCompareRankingsArticles
  1. Home›
  2. Manufacturers›
  3. Kia›
  4. Rio›
  5. 2019

2019 Kia Rio Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated Jun 10, 2026·Daniel Wilson
2019 Kia Rio Report

Overall Score

6.9/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • The 2019 Kia Rio achieves an EPA-estimated 32 MPG combined, offering low running costs.
  • A significant safety recall impacts the trunk latch mechanism; verify this repair has been completed.
  • No owner complaints have been logged, suggesting a generally trouble-free experience outside of the recall.
  • The 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission provides adequate power for daily driving.
See the 5 checks before you buyFree • Takes 20s • Saves Thousands $
OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2019 Kia Rio

The 2019 Kia Rio presents itself as a practical and economical choice for used car shoppers. It delivers commendable fuel efficiency, making it a sensible option for daily commuting and cost-conscious buyers. While its overall reliability is rated as average, a significant safety recall related to the trunk latch mechanism warrants buyer attention. No owner complaints have been reported, which is a positive indicator, but the recall necessitates a thorough pre-purchase inspection.

Critical Failure Risk

The trunk latch mechanism can fail, preventing the trunk from opening or closing properly. This issue was subject to a safety recall.

Early detection can help you avoid a $200-$500 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls2
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

0

No primary complaint themes found.

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
32
MPG
City
28
MPG
Highway
37
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

9.1/ 10

Practicality

6.2/ 10
Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Commuters seeking an economical and fuel-efficient daily driver.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Drivers demanding high performance or engaging driving dynamics.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2019 Kia Rio Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2019 Kia Rio.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects
Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Regular
Seating Capacity
5
Transmission
Automatic (S6)
Drivetrain
Front-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Hatchback
EPA Combined MPG
32

CarFocal account required

See the full 2019 Kia Rio buyer report before you decide

Unlock the complete checklist, maintenance outlook, and buyer verdict in one place.

Most Common Issues

1. Trunk Latch Malfunction

Most reported

Usage data observed

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brakes

Est. shop cost: $80 - $150

7,500 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (5 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
2 recall campaign details & remedy notes
Create free account

Free • Takes 20 seconds • Saves Thousands $

Already have an account? Log in

FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2019 Kia Rio reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2019 Kia Rio is 9.1/10. Reliability score is 9.1/10. NHTSA recalls: 2. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2019 Kia Rio for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 6.2/10. EPA combined economy is 32 MPG. Seating capacity is 5. 4 passenger doors are listed.

What is the overall score for the 2019 Kia Rio?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2019 Kia Rio is 6.9/10. Overall score is 6.9/10 (Good). Confidence 55%. Maintenance 8.8/10. Practicality 6.2/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2019 Kia Rio?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brakes at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $700. Repair prediction highlight: Trunk Latch (typical at 50,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $200 • Max: $500).

What is the MSRP range for the 2019 Kia Rio?▾

Base MSRP is $16,490.

What engine is in the 2019 Kia Rio?▾

Engine specs list 4 • 1.6.

What transmission does the 2019 Kia Rio use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Kia Rio, transmission is Automatic (S6). The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2019 Kia Rio?▾

EPA combined estimate is 32 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2019 Kia Rio?▾

8 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

How many people fit in a 2019 Kia Rio?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Kia Rio, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2019 Kia Rio?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Kia Rio, body style is hatchback.

What drivetrain does the 2019 Kia Rio use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Kia Rio, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (S6).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2019 Kia Rio?▾

This model year has 2 official safety campaigns listed.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

We may earn a commission if you buy parts through our links. Learn more.