The Kia Rio III Hatchback, specifically the 3-door model powered by the 1.2-liter (84 horsepower) engine with Intelligent Stop & Go (ISG) technology, was a key offering in Kia’s European and Asian markets from 2015 to 2017. This variant represented an entry-level option within the Rio III range, positioned below the more powerful 1.4-liter and diesel variants. The facelifted UB generation, introduced in 2015, brought styling updates and refinements to the already popular Rio platform (based on the Hyundai-Kia B-platform), aiming to enhance its appeal to budget-conscious buyers seeking a practical and fuel-efficient hatchback.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Kia |
| Model | Rio |
| Generation | Rio III Hatchback (UB, facelift 2015) 3 door |
| Type (Engine) | 1.2 (84 Hp) ISG |
| Start of production | 2015 |
| End of production | 2017 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.9 l/100 km (39.9 US mpg, 47.9 UK mpg, 16.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.1 l/100 km (57.4 US mpg, 68.9 UK mpg, 24.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.7 l/100 km (50 US mpg, 60.1 UK mpg, 21.3 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 109 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 13.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 13.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 12.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 166 km/h (103.15 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.4 kg/Hp, 80.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.6 kg/Nm, 116.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 84 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 67.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 121 Nm @ 4000 rpm (89.25 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 | 3.5 l (3.7 US qt | 3.08 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 4.7 l (4.97 US qt | 4.14 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1038-1117 kg (2288.4 – 2462.56 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1560 kg (3439.21 lbs.) |
| Max load | 443-522 kg (976.65 – 1150.81 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 288 l (10.17 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 923 l (32.6 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 43 l (11.36 US gal | 9.46 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 70 kg (154.32 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 900 kg (1984.16 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 450 kg (992.08 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 50 kg (110.23 lbs.) |
| Length | 4050 mm (159.45 in.) |
| Width | 1720 mm (67.72 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1985 mm (78.15 in.) |
| Height | 1455 mm (57.28 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2570 mm (101.18 in.) |
| Front track | 1507-1520 mm (59.33 – 59.84 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1511-1525 mm (59.49 – 60.04 in.) |
| Front overhang | 810 mm (31.89 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 670 mm (26.38 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.5 m (34.45 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 |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| 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 | 5.5J x 15; 6.0J x 16; 6.5J x 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Rio variant is the Kia G4LA 1.2-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine is a naturally aspirated unit, meaning it doesn’t employ turbocharging or supercharging. It utilizes a multi-point fuel injection system, delivering fuel directly into the intake ports. The engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, contributing to improved breathing and efficiency. The compression ratio is set at 10.5:1. The ISG (Idle Stop & Go) system automatically shuts off the engine when the vehicle comes to a halt, such as at traffic lights, and restarts it instantly when the driver releases the brake pedal, further enhancing fuel economy. The engine is transversely mounted at the front of the vehicle, driving the front wheels. The standard transmission is a five-speed manual gearbox, optimized for fuel efficiency and everyday driving.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.2-liter engine, producing 84 horsepower and 121 Nm of torque, delivers modest performance. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph takes around 12.7 seconds, and the top speed is approximately 103 mph. The power delivery is linear but requires the engine to be revved to extract the most performance. The five-speed manual transmission is well-matched to the engine’s characteristics, offering smooth gear changes. Compared to the more powerful 1.4-liter engine, this variant feels noticeably slower, particularly during overtaking maneuvers. However, it excels in urban driving conditions, where its fuel efficiency and nimble handling are advantageous. The gear ratios are tuned for economy, meaning higher gears are engaged at lower speeds.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.2 ISG trim typically came with a reasonable level of standard equipment. This included air conditioning, power steering, electric front windows, a basic audio system with USB connectivity, and ABS brakes. Safety features such as airbags were also standard. Higher trim levels offered additional features like alloy wheels, a more advanced audio system, and optional extras such as a sunroof and parking sensors. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a functional and durable design. The dashboard layout was straightforward and user-friendly.
Chassis & Braking
The Rio III utilized a McPherson strut front suspension and a semi-independent coil spring rear suspension. This setup provided a comfortable ride quality, suitable for everyday driving. The front brakes were ventilated discs, offering good stopping power, while the rear brakes were discs. The steering was electrically assisted, providing light and precise control. The chassis was designed to balance handling with ride comfort, making it a pleasant vehicle to drive in various conditions.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 1.2-liter Rio was generally well-received by critics as an affordable and economical city car. Its fuel efficiency was a major selling point, and the ISG system further enhanced its appeal to environmentally conscious buyers. Compared to the 1.4-liter variant, it offered lower running costs but sacrificed performance. The diesel models provided even better fuel economy but came with a higher purchase price. Reliability was generally good, with few major issues reported.
Legacy
The Kia Rio III 1.2 ISG has proven to be a reliable and durable vehicle in the used car market. The G4LA engine is known for its longevity, provided it receives regular maintenance. While not a performance car, it remains a practical and economical choice for buyers seeking a budget-friendly hatchback. Its fuel efficiency and low running costs continue to make it an attractive option for city driving and commuting. Parts availability is generally good, and maintenance costs are relatively low, contributing to its continued popularity in the used car segment.
