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2022 Kia Rio Report

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

Updated Jun 10, 2026·Ryan Davis·1 Critical Recall

Overall Score

6.9/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • Excellent fuel economy (36 MPG combined) keeps running costs low.
  • A critical steering recall requires confirmation of repair before purchase.
  • No consumer complaints were logged, suggesting potential issues are addressed via recall or TSBs.
  • The 1.6L four-cylinder engine provides sufficient power for daily driving.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2022 Kia Rio

The 2022 Kia Rio presents itself as an economical and practical choice in the subcompact segment. It delivers commendable fuel efficiency, making it a cost-effective daily driver. Inside, the cabin is surprisingly refined for its price point, offering a quiet and comfortable environment for commuting. While its performance is adequate for urban navigation, it prioritizes efficiency over spirited driving. Buyers should be aware of a significant steering recall that requires verification of completion.

Critical Failure Risk

A critical recall (22V304000) addresses a potentially unsecured lower steering column u-joint retention bolt. If this bolt detaches, it can lead to a complete loss of steering control.

Early detection can help you avoid a repair of about $0.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls1
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

0

No primary complaint themes found.

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Horsepower
120HP
Torque
112 lb–ftLB-FT
Fuel Efficiency
Combined
36
MPG
City
33
MPG
Highway
41
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

8.6/ 10

Practicality

5.7/ 10

The score is mainly limited by small boot.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Commuters seeking maximum fuel efficiency.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Those prioritizing spirited performance or engaging driving dynamics.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2022 Kia Rio Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2022 Kia Rio.

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

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Regular
Seating Capacity
5
Horsepower
120 hp
Torque
112 lb-ft
Transmission
Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)
Drivetrain
Front-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Hatchback
MSRP Range
$16,150 - $18,485
EPA Combined MPG
36

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Most Common Issues

1. Steering Column Bolt Looseness

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 - Inspect Wiper Blades

Est. shop cost: $75 - $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 (4 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
1 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2022 Kia Rio reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2022 Kia Rio is 8.6/10. Reliability score is 8.6/10. NHTSA recalls: 1. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2022 Kia Rio for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 5.7/10. The score is mainly limited by small boot. EPA combined economy is 36 MPG. Seating capacity is 5. 4 passenger doors are listed. Boot capacity is 325 litres.

What is the overall score for the 2022 Kia Rio?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2022 Kia Rio is 6.9/10. Overall score is 6.9/10 (Good). Confidence 55%. Maintenance 8.1/10. Practicality 5.7/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2022 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 - Inspect Wiper Blades at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $700. Repair prediction highlight: Steering Column (typical at 10,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $0 (Recall)).

What is the MSRP range for the 2022 Kia Rio?▾

MSRP range is $16,150 - $18,485.

What engine is in the 2022 Kia Rio?▾

Engine specs list Inline-4 • 4 • 1.6. Output is 120 hp • 112 lb-ft.

What transmission does the 2022 Kia Rio use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2022 Kia Rio, transmission is Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2022 Kia Rio?▾

EPA combined estimate is 36 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2022 Kia Rio?▾

9 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Tire Pressure Monitoring System.

What is the fuel economy range for the 2022 Kia Rio?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2022 Kia Rio, fuel economy range is 33-41 mpg combined.

How many people fit in a 2022 Kia Rio?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2022 Kia Rio, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2022 Kia Rio?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2022 Kia Rio, body style is hatchback.

What drivetrain does the 2022 Kia Rio use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2022 Kia Rio, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2022 Kia Rio?▾

This model year has 1 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

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