12k Kia Rio?

[robmc]

Thinking of buying one of these, hatchback model, need it as a 2nd car, loads of room in the boot area for our dog, Like the idea of the 3yr warranty (hopefully un-needed) are these Kia mechanically sound, not concerned about resale or trade in will have this car for donkeys years and will upgrade our other car on a regular basis (new Avensis)
Anyone own one of these - good value? any advice offered appreciated

Thanks

[WhipLash]

Hi Rob,

I don't know much about Kia cars themselves, just that you don't see too many of them on the road! Have seen one or two Rio's around all right though.

I did a quick look up on 4Car for the Kia Rio. Back in 2001/2002 it got awarded 1 star out of five. Then it looks like it got a makeover, where it was then awarded two out of five.

You can read the review for yourself here:- http://www.channel4.com/apps26/4car/jsp/main.jsp?lnk=231_2&reviewid=558

Just a thought, would you not be better off buying a second hand estate? Something like an old Mazda 626 estate or Toyota Carina would be reliable enough I'd imagine. Just an idea anyhow.

So have you driven the Rio yet? First impressions?

[robmc]

Have had two test drives, once with my wife, went another time with my dad, Drives ok, look lets face-it for 12k your getting a basic car, fairly bland inside but its what we need for a dog in the back and a baby seat in the rear seats, just unsure about its reliability?

[WhipLash]

Originally posted by robmc
...but its what we need for a dog in the back and a baby seat in the rear seats, just unsure about its reliability?

Reliability is one thing, but if you're going to be using it to carry the family around then you might also want to consider how safe the car will be and how it would hold up if ever it was involved in a crash. I don't know the NCAP crash test ratings for the Rio (I don't think its been tested yet), but my guess is that is would be on the lower end of the scale, or middle of the road at best.

There are two reviews for the Rio here on eForecourt (http://eforecourt.com/php/user_car_review.php/MODE/SEARCH/SELECT_MAKE/Kia). Both reviewers give 9/10 for reliability.

There are also a few user reviews at the end of the 4Car review. However as its not a big seller per say so its going to be hard to find a lot of users opinions on reliability.

Sounds like it could be a good buy for the price then.