Kia Rio DC
The budget-conscious subcompact that helped establish Kia's global presence.
- Power
- 75 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 13.6 s
- Top speed
- 103 mph
About the Kia Rio DC
The first-generation Kia Rio, known internally as the DC, was designed to be one of the most affordable cars on the market. In the UK and Europe, the 1.3-litre LX trim offered a basic but functional package, featuring a five-door hatchback body that was marketed as a station wagon in some regions. While it was often criticised for its unrefined driving dynamics and low-rent interior materials, it gained a following for its low running costs and Kia's aggressive warranty. Today, it is a rare sight on UK roads, serving primarily as a testament to Kia's early value-driven strategy before its mid-2000s design revolution.
Kia Rio DC specs
The Kia Rio DC produces 75 bhp (56 kW) and 113 Nm (83 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 13.6 seconds and has a top speed of 103 mph (165 km/h).
| Make | Kia |
|---|---|
| Model | Rio |
| Generation | DC |
| Trim | 1.3 LX |
| Years | 2000–2005 |
| Type | Hatchback |
| Body style | Hatchback |
| Country | South Korea |
| Engine | 1.3-litre inline-4 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,343 cc (1.3 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 75 bhp (56 kW) at 5,000 rpm |
| Torque | 113 Nm (83 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 6,000 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 13.6 s |
| Top speed | 103 mph (165 km/h) |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive |
| Weight | 944 kg (2,081 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 79 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
Kia Rio DC rarity in CarSpot
The Kia Rio DC 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 Rio DC fun facts
- In its home market of South Korea, the facelifted DC Rio was marketed as the 'Rio SF', where SF stood for both 'Science Fiction' and 'Safety First'.
- At its launch, the Rio was the least expensive mass-produced car sold in the United States, though the 1.3-litre engine was reserved for other global markets.
- The 1.3-litre engine used in the Rio was a development of the Mazda B-series engine, reflecting Kia's long-standing technical partnership with the Japanese brand.
