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2023 Kia Rio Report

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

Updated Jun 10, 2026·Ryan Davis

Overall Score

6.9/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • Excellent reliability indicated by zero recalls and complaints.
  • Achieves an impressive 36 MPG combined, contributing to low fuel costs.
  • Front-wheel drive and a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine provide adequate power for city driving.
  • NHTSA has not yet provided overall safety ratings for this model year.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2023 Kia Rio

The 2023 Kia Rio is a subcompact car that prioritizes efficiency and affordability, making it an attractive option on the used market. It offers a practical choice for daily commuting, with a focus on low running costs. While its safety ratings are not yet determined by NHTSA, the absence of recalls and consumer complaints in the data is a positive indicator for used car shoppers.

Critical Failure Risk

Excellent reliability indicated by zero recalls and complaints.

Early detection can reduce the odds of major repair bills.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls0
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

0

No primary complaint themes found.

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
36
MPG
City
32
MPG
Highway
41
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

9.2/ 10

Practicality

6.3/ 10
Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

First-time car buyers prioritizing affordability and low running costs.

+3 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Drivers who demand spirited performance or engaging handling.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2023 Kia Rio Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2023 Kia Rio.

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

Limited reliability records are available for this model year.

Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Regular
Seating Capacity
5
Transmission
Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)
Drivetrain
Front-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Hatchback
EPA Combined MPG
36

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Most Common Issues

No complaint hotspot data available yet.

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 Brake System - Inspect Wiper Blades

Est. shop cost: $75 - $125

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)
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
Full safety recall details
Final buyer verdict: should you buy?
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2023 Kia Rio reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2023 Kia Rio is 9.2/10. Reliability score is 9.2/10. NHTSA recalls: 0. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2023 Kia Rio for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 6.3/10. EPA combined economy is 36 MPG. Seating capacity is 5.

What is the overall score for the 2023 Kia Rio?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2023 Kia Rio is 6.9/10. Overall score is 6.9/10 (Good). Confidence 55%. Maintenance 9.4/10. Practicality 6.3/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2023 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 Brake System - Inspect Wiper Blades at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $300 - $500.

What engine is in the 2023 Kia Rio?▾

Engine specs list 4 • 1.6.

What transmission does the 2023 Kia Rio use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2023 Kia Rio, transmission is Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2023 Kia Rio?▾

EPA combined estimate is 36 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2023 Kia Rio?▾

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

How many people fit in a 2023 Kia Rio?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2023 Kia Rio, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2023 Kia Rio?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2023 Kia Rio, body style is hatchback.

What drivetrain does the 2023 Kia Rio use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2023 Kia Rio, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT).

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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