2013 Kia Rio: What's New, Specs & Features

Last updated August 4, 2026

The biggest change for the 2013 Kia Rio is revised Kia badging, making this a light update rather than a redesign. A few SX, EX, and 5-door details also changed, but the engine, structure, and standard safety equipment carried over.

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About the 2013 Kia Rio

3rd generation (UB, 2012-2017), second model year after the full 2012 redesign.

Kia positions the Rio as its smallest and most budget-friendly car, but not as a stripped-down basic commuter. Official materials stress its strong-for-the-class 1.6-liter GDI engine, roomy interior, sharp styling, and generous feature content for a subcompact. For most buyers, the Rio’s appeal is simple: it delivers easy city size and good fuel economy while feeling more polished and better equipped than many low-cost rivals.

The LX is the straightforward entry model, with air conditioning, steering-wheel audio controls, and a split-folding rear seat. The better-equipped EX adds Bluetooth, cruise control, and upgraded cabin materials, while the sportier SX has 17-inch wheels, a firmer suspension, LED lighting, a touchscreen, and a rearview camera.

What changed, by category

Styling

Kia revised the badges on the hood, trunk lid, and steering wheel. The body panels and front and rear styling did not change.

Tech

Automatic SX models gained standard steering-wheel paddle shifters for manual control of gear changes.

Structural

EX and SX 5-door hatchbacks gained a standard under-floor cargo tray, and 5-door models received a revised rear-seatback release.

2013 Kia Rio specs and features by trim

Feature	2013 Kia RioEX0 in stock	2013 Kia RioLX1 in stock	2013 Kia RioSX0 in stock
Engine	4-Cyl, 1.6 Liter	4-Cyl, 1.6 Liter	4-Cyl, 1.6 Liter
Transmission	Automatic, 6-Spd	Automatic, 6-Spd	Automatic, 6-Spd
Drivetrain	FWD	FWD	FWD
Fuel Type	Gas	Gas	Gas
MPG City	28 mpg	28 mpg	28 mpg
MPG Highway	36 mpg	36 mpg	36 mpg
Horsepower	138 hp	138 hp	138 hp
Torque	123 lb-ft	123 lb-ft	123 lb-ft
Trunk/Cargo	13.7–15 cu-ft	13.7–15 cu-ft	13.7–15 cu-ft
Rear Legroom	31.1 in	31.1 in	31.1 in
Seats	5	5	5
Doors	4	4	4
Safety & Security
Automatic Headlights
Cruise Control
Rear View Camera
Exterior Features
Alloy Wheels
Fog Lights
LED Tail Lights
Power Moonroof
Power Folding Exterior Mirrors
Rear Spoiler
Entertainment & Electronics
Bluetooth
Navigation System
Satellite Radio
Touch Screen Monitor
USB Ports
Comfort & Convenience
Heated Front Seats
Leather Seats
Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel
Power Locks
Power Windows
Proximity Keyless Entry
Push-Button Engine Start
Remote Keyless Entry
Tilt Wheel
Tilt/Telescoping Steering Wheel

How the 2014 Kia Rio compares

The 2014 Kia Rio received a light update led by new underbody covers that improved aerodynamics. It was not redesigned, and its engine, body styles, and three-trim lineup carried over.

See the full 2014 changes

Frequently asked questions

What changed on the 2013 Kia Rio compared with the 2012 model?

The 2013 Rio received revised Kia badges, standard paddle shifters on automatic SX models, and an under-floor cargo tray on EX and SX hatchbacks. Five-door models also received a revised rear-seatback release, while the core vehicle remained largely unchanged.

Was the 2013 Kia Rio redesigned?

No, the 2013 Rio was not redesigned. It was the second model year of the generation introduced for 2012 and received only minor styling and equipment updates.

Did the 2013 Kia Rio get a different engine?

No, the engine did not change for 2013. The Rio continued with its 1.6-liter direct-injected four-cylinder engine.

Which 2013 Kia Rio models have paddle shifters?

Automatic 2013 Rio SX models have standard paddle shifters. The steering-wheel controls let the driver select gears manually without using a clutch pedal.

Which 2013 Kia Rio hatchbacks received the under-floor cargo tray?

The 2013 Rio EX and SX 5-door hatchbacks received a standard under-floor cargo tray. The LX hatchback did not receive this equipment update.