Kia Rio UB
A stylish and sensible supermini that marked Kia's arrival as a serious European contender.
- Power
- 84 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 12.6 s
- Top speed
- 104 mph
About the Kia Rio UB
The third-generation 'UB' Kia Rio represented a significant leap forward in design and quality for the Korean brand, penned under the direction of Peter Schreyer. In '2' trim with the 1.25-litre Kappa engine, it served as the heart of the range, offering a balance of low running costs and decent equipment levels. While not as dynamically engaging as a Ford Fiesta, it provided a composed ride and a well-built interior that challenged established European rivals. Its primary appeal to collectors and used buyers remains its reputation for reliability and the remainder of its industry-leading seven-year warranty when newer.
Kia Rio UB specs
The Kia Rio UB produces 84 bhp (63 kW) and 121 Nm (89 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 12.6 seconds and has a top speed of 104 mph (167 km/h).
| Make | Kia |
|---|---|
| Model | Rio |
| Generation | UB |
| Trim | 1.25 2 |
| Years | 2011–2017 |
| Type | Hatchback |
| Body style | Hatchback |
| Country | South Korea |
| Engine | 1.25-litre inline-4 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,248 cc (1.2 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 84 bhp (63 kW) at 6,000 rpm |
| Torque | 121 Nm (89 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 6,500 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 12.6 s |
| Top speed | 104 mph (167 km/h) |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,127 kg (2,485 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 75 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
Kia Rio UB rarity in CarSpot
The Kia Rio UB 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 UB fun facts
- The UB Rio was significantly more aerodynamic than its predecessor, achieving a drag coefficient of just 0.28.
- The 1.25-litre Kappa engine features a maintenance-free timing chain, contributing to the model's low long-term ownership costs.
- Designer Peter Schreyer, who oversaw the Rio's styling, was previously responsible for the iconic original Audi TT.
