Kia Retona
A rugged, military-derived compact 4x4 built for the 'Return to Nature'.
- Power
- 83 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 19.8 s
- Top speed
- 77 mph
- Est. value
- $3k–$6k
About the Kia Retona
The Kia Retona is a civilian adaptation of the Kia KM131 military jeep, succeeding the Asia Rocsta. Sharing its body-on-frame platform with the first-generation Sportage, it was designed as a utilitarian alternative to the Suzuki Jimny and Lada Niva. The 2.0-litre turbodiesel variant prioritises low-end torque for off-road capability over on-road refinement, featuring a selectable four-wheel-drive system. While praised for its ruggedness and retro aesthetic, it gained a reputation for poor reliability in European markets, making well-maintained survivors increasingly rare.
Kia Retona specs
The Kia Retona produces 83 bhp (62 kW) and 195 Nm (144 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 19.8 seconds and has a top speed of 77 mph (124 km/h).
| Make | Kia |
|---|---|
| Model | Retona |
| Trim | 2.0 TD |
| Years | 1998–2003 |
| Type | Off-road |
| Body style | SUV |
| Country | South Korea |
| Engine | 2.0-litre turbocharged inline-4 diesel |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,998 cc (2.0 litres) |
| Induction | Turbocharged |
| Power | 83 bhp (62 kW) at 4,000 rpm |
| Torque | 195 Nm (144 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 4,500 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 19.8 s |
| Top speed | 77 mph (124 km/h) |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Four-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,394 kg (3,073 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 60 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Kia Retona worth?
A typical Kia Retona is estimated to be worth $3,000 – $6,000 (about £2,200 – £4,500).
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Kia Retona rarity in CarSpot
The Kia Retona is a Common card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 0 out of 100. Everyday cars you can spot on almost any street. A Common card is worth 10 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Kia Retona fun facts
- The name 'Retona' is a portmanteau of the phrase 'Return to Nature', reflecting its intended use as an outdoor lifestyle vehicle.
- It was originally developed by Asia Motors and sold as the Asia Retona in several markets before the brand was fully integrated into Kia.
- The Retona's design is directly based on the South Korean military's standard light utility vehicle, the KM131.
