The Kia Rio IV Hatchback (YB) 1.25 MPI, producing 84 horsepower, was a key entry point into the fourth-generation Rio lineup, manufactured between February 2017 and July 2020. Positioned as the base model in many markets, particularly Europe, it offered an affordable and fuel-efficient option within the subcompact hatchback segment. The YB Rio represented a significant step forward in design and refinement for the Rio, moving away from the more utilitarian image of previous generations. This variant played a crucial role in attracting budget-conscious buyers and establishing the Rio as a competitive player against rivals like the Volkswagen Polo, Ford Fiesta, and Hyundai i20.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Kia |
| Model | Rio |
| Generation | Rio IV Hatchback (YB) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.25 MPI (84 Hp) |
| Start of production | February, 2017 |
| End of production | July, 2020 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.7-4.8 l/100 km (50 – 49 US mpg, 60.1 – 58.9 UK mpg, 21.3 – 20.8 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 106-109 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 12.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 170 km/h (105.63 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 b |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 13.2 kg/Hp, 75.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 9.1 kg/Nm, 109.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 84 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 67.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 122 Nm @ 4000 rpm (89.98 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | G4LA |
| Engine displacement | 1248 cm3 (76.16 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 71 mm (2.8 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 78.8 mm (3.1 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.6 l (3.8 US qt | 3.17 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 5.1 l (5.39 US qt | 4.49 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1110 kg (2447.13 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1560 kg (3439.21 lbs.) |
| Max load | 450 kg (992.08 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 325 l (11.48 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 980 l (34.61 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 45 l (11.89 US gal | 9.9 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 910 kg (2006.21 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 450 kg (992.08 lbs.) |
| Length | 4065 mm (160.04 in.) |
| Width | 1725 mm (67.91 in.) |
| Height | 1450 mm (57.09 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2580 mm (101.57 in.) |
| Front track | 1518 mm (59.76 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1524 mm (60 in.) |
| Front overhang | 830 mm (32.68 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 655 mm (25.79 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 135 mm (5.31 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.2 m (33.46 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Semi-independent, coil spring, Elastic beam |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 185/65 R15; 195/55 R16; 205/45 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 15; 16; 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Rio variant is the Kia G4LA 1.25-liter naturally aspirated inline-four cylinder engine. This engine, part of Kia’s Gamma family, utilizes a multi-point fuel injection system, delivering fuel directly into the intake ports. The engine features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) design with four valves per cylinder, contributing to reasonable efficiency and smooth operation. The G4LA engine is known for its simplicity and durability, prioritizing reliability over outright performance. The 5-speed manual transmission was the standard pairing, chosen for its cost-effectiveness and suitability for urban driving. The transmission’s gear ratios were tuned for fuel economy, with a relatively tall final drive.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.25 MPI engine, paired with the 5-speed manual, delivers modest performance. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes around 12.3 seconds, and top speed is limited to 170 km/h (105.63 mph). The engine feels adequate for city driving and short highway trips, but struggles when fully loaded or attempting brisk acceleration. The gear ratios are spaced to maximize fuel efficiency, meaning the engine often needs to be revved to access its limited power. Compared to higher-spec Rio models with larger engines, this variant feels noticeably slower and less refined. However, the light clutch and easy-to-use gearbox make it a forgiving car for new drivers.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.25 MPI Rio typically came with a basic but functional equipment list. Standard features generally included air conditioning, power windows, central locking, and a basic audio system with USB connectivity. Safety features such as ABS, airbags, and stability control were also standard. Higher trim levels offered upgrades like alloy wheels, a touchscreen infotainment system, and rear parking sensors. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a simple dashboard layout. Optional extras included a sunroof, upgraded audio systems, and various cosmetic enhancements.
Chassis & Braking
The Rio IV utilizes a front-wheel-drive platform with a McPherson strut suspension setup at the front and a semi-independent torsion beam suspension at the rear. This configuration provides a comfortable ride quality, prioritizing smoothness over sporty handling. The front brakes are ventilated discs, while the rear brakes are drums, a cost-saving measure common in this segment. The steering is electrically assisted, providing light and easy steering feel. The suspension tuning is geared towards absorbing bumps and providing a stable ride, rather than offering sharp cornering ability.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 1.25 MPI Rio was generally well-received as an affordable and practical city car. Critics praised its fuel efficiency and comfortable ride, but noted its lack of performance. Compared to the more powerful 1.4-liter engine option, the 1.25 MPI offered significantly lower running costs but at the expense of driving enjoyment. The 1.1 CRDi diesel variant provided better fuel economy and torque, but came with a higher purchase price. The 1.25 MPI appealed to buyers prioritizing economy and practicality over performance, making it a popular choice for first-time car owners and urban commuters.
Legacy
The G4LA 1.25-liter engine, while not known for its groundbreaking performance, has proven to be a reliable and durable unit. Used examples of the Rio IV 1.25 MPI are generally affordable and relatively easy to maintain. Common issues are typically minor, such as wear and tear on suspension components and occasional sensor failures. The simplicity of the engine and transmission contributes to its long-term reliability. In the used car market, this variant represents a good value proposition for buyers seeking a budget-friendly and fuel-efficient hatchback.
