The Kia Rio IV Sedan (YB) 1.6, producing 130 horsepower with an automatic transmission, was a key variant in Kia’s fourth-generation Rio lineup, manufactured from 2017 to 2020. Positioned as a mid-range offering, it aimed to balance affordability with a more refined driving experience than the base models. This version played a significant role in Kia’s efforts to gain market share in the competitive compact sedan segment, particularly in North America and Europe, offering a compelling alternative to established rivals like the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, and Volkswagen Golf. The YB generation Rio represented a substantial step forward in terms of design, interior quality, and available technology for the Korean automaker.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Kia |
| Model | Rio |
| Generation | Rio IV Sedan (YB) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 (130 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2017 |
| End of production | 2020 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.4 l/100 km (28 US mpg, 33.6 UK mpg, 11.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.3 l/100 km (37.3 US mpg, 44.8 UK mpg, 15.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.3 l/100 km (32.2 US mpg, 38.7 UK mpg, 13.7 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.5 kg/Hp, 105.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.6 kg/Nm, 130.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 130 Hp @ 6300 rpm |
| Power per litre | 81.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 161 Nm @ 4850 rpm (118.75 lb.-ft. @ 4850 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine displacement | 1591 cm3 (97.09 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Compression ratio | 11:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC-CVVT |
| Kerb Weight | 1231 kg (2713.89 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 45 l (11.89 US gal | 9.9 UK gal) |
| Length | 4384 mm (172.6 in.) |
| Width | 1725 mm (67.91 in.) |
| Height | 1450 mm (57.09 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2581 mm (101.61 in.) |
| Front track | 1524 mm (60 in.) |
| Rear track | 1529 mm (60.2 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 140 mm (5.51 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 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 | 6 gears, automatic 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 |
| Wheel rims size | 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Rio 1.6 Automatic is the Gamma II family 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine, designated internally as the G16D, utilizes direct fuel injection (GDI) and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with continuously variable valve timing (CVVT) on both intake and exhaust camshafts. This configuration allows for optimized engine breathing across a wider RPM range, improving both power and fuel efficiency. The engine produces 130 horsepower at 6,300 rpm and 161 Nm (118.75 lb-ft) of torque at 4,850 rpm. The engine’s 11:1 compression ratio contributes to its relatively efficient operation. The engine is transversely mounted, driving the front wheels. Paired with the engine is a six-speed automatic transmission, offering smooth shifts and convenient operation. This transmission was chosen for its balance of cost-effectiveness and drivability, catering to the preferences of buyers seeking an easy-to-drive compact sedan.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6-liter engine and six-speed automatic combination in the Rio IV Sedan delivers adequate, though not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph takes approximately 9.5-10.5 seconds, making it competitive within its class. The automatic transmission is tuned for fuel economy, resulting in relatively conservative shift points. While this contributes to good gas mileage, it can sometimes feel sluggish during quick acceleration maneuvers. Compared to the manual transmission versions of the same engine, the automatic sacrifices some responsiveness. The automatic’s gear ratios are optimized for cruising, providing a comfortable ride on highways. However, the engine can feel strained when climbing steep hills or carrying a full load of passengers. The steering is light and easy, making it well-suited for city driving, but lacks the feedback desired by more enthusiastic drivers.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6 Automatic trim typically included standard features such as air conditioning, power windows and locks, a touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity, and a rearview camera. Higher trim levels added features like alloy wheels, a more advanced infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, a sunroof, and automatic climate control. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for upgraded materials on higher trims. Safety features included ABS, electronic stability control, and multiple airbags. The Rio IV Sedan aimed to provide a good value proposition, offering a respectable level of equipment for its price point.
Chassis & Braking
The Rio IV Sedan utilizes a McPherson strut front suspension and a semi-independent torsion beam rear suspension. This setup provides a comfortable ride quality, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road reasonably well. The front suspension incorporates a stabilizer bar to reduce body roll during cornering. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at the front and drum brakes at the rear. While adequate for everyday driving, the rear drum brakes are a cost-saving measure and don’t offer the same stopping power as disc brakes. The electric power steering provides light and easy steering feel, making it convenient for maneuvering in tight spaces.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Kia Rio IV Sedan 1.6 Automatic received generally positive reviews from automotive critics. It was praised for its value, fuel efficiency, and comfortable ride. However, some reviewers noted its lack of outright performance and somewhat basic interior materials. Compared to other trims in the Rio lineup, the 1.6 Automatic offered a good balance between price and features. The base 1.6 manual was more affordable but lacked the convenience of the automatic transmission. Higher-trim models with more powerful engines offered better performance but came at a higher cost. Fuel economy figures of around 32.2 US mpg combined were competitive with other compact sedans in its class. Reliability reports generally indicated good dependability, although some owners reported minor issues with the automatic transmission over the long term.
Legacy
The Kia Rio IV Sedan 1.6 Automatic has proven to be a reliable and affordable used car option. The Gamma II engine is known for its durability, and the six-speed automatic transmission, while not the most sporty, has generally held up well over time. These Rios are readily available on the used car market at attractive price points. While not a performance standout, the 1.6 Automatic variant remains a practical and economical choice for buyers seeking a dependable compact sedan. Its continued presence in the used car market is a testament to its overall quality and value proposition.
