“I love my Kia Rio hatchback. It has great MPG at 35 plus and handles fantastic in the snow. It arrived in a dirty state and has been in the shop more time than I have fingers, and I have all of them.”
2014 Kia Rio: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
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.
About the 2014 Kia Rio
3rd generation (2012-2017), third model year; no mid-cycle refresh.
Kia positioned the Rio as a small car that did more than basic economy-car duty. Official materials emphasize spirited road manners, strong value, standout styling, useful interior space and a relatively strong 138-hp engine for the class. In sedan or hatchback form, the Rio’s core appeal was giving commuters and first-time buyers a more upscale look and better tech than many bargain subcompacts, without giving up efficiency or day-to-day practicality.
The 2014 Rio was sold as a sedan and a five-door hatchback, with the LX positioned as the straightforward entry trim and the EX adding everyday conveniences such as cruise control, Bluetooth, and remote keyless entry. The SX had a sportier setup with 17-inch wheels, a firmer suspension, paddle shifters, a 4.3-inch touchscreen, and a rearview camera.
What changed, by category
Styling
New covers beneath the body, engine, and rear bumper improved airflow under the vehicle. The SX also received an updated leather-wrapped steering wheel.
Tech
A water temperature gauge was added, and the smart-key design was revised.
2014 Kia Rio specs and features by trim
| Feature | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| 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 | 27 mpg | 27 mpg | 27 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 37 mpg | 37 mpg | 37 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 |
| Automatic Headlights | |||
| Cruise Control | |||
| Rear View Camera | |||
| Alloy Wheels | |||
| Fog Lights | |||
| LED Tail Lights | |||
| Power Moonroof | |||
| Power Folding Exterior Mirrors | |||
| Rear Spoiler | |||
| Bluetooth | |||
| Navigation System | |||
| Satellite Radio | |||
| Touch Screen Monitor | |||
| USB Ports | |||
| 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 | |||
Frequently asked questions
Was the 2014 Kia Rio redesigned?
No. The 2014 Rio stayed within the generation introduced for 2012 and received only minor updates rather than a full redesign or major refresh.
What changed on the 2014 Kia Rio compared with the 2013 model?
The main change was the addition of body, engine, and rear-bumper under covers to improve aerodynamics. Kia also added a water temperature gauge, revised the smart-key design, and updated the SX trim’s leather-wrapped steering wheel.
Did the 2014 Kia Rio get a new engine?
No. The 2014 Rio retained its 138-horsepower 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine, so the year’s updates did not include a powertrain change.
Did the 2014 Kia Rio lineup change?
No. The LX, EX, and SX trims carried over, as did the sedan and five-door hatchback body styles.
What set the 2014 Kia Rio SX apart?
The SX was the sport-focused 2014 Rio. It had 17-inch alloy wheels, a sport-tuned suspension, paddle shifters, a 4.3-inch touchscreen, a rearview camera, and LED exterior lighting, plus an updated leather-wrapped steering wheel for the year.
2014 Kia Rio Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2014 Kia Rio.
3.0
2014 Kia Rio
(5 reviews)
“Two problems with the design of the car. 1. Cannot open trunk from inside. 2. Aerodynamics of car make the rear constantly dirty/covered with snow.”
Sources
- kiamedia.com — Pressreleases / 7721 / 2014 Kia Rio Sedan And Rio 5 Door
- kiamedia.com — Pressreleases / 3876 / 2013 Kia Rio Sedan And Rio 5 Door
- kiamedia.com — Rio 5 Door / 2013 / Whatsnew
- kiamedia.com — Pressreleases / 9215 / 2015 Kia Rio Sedan
- kiamedia.com — Models / Rio 5 Door / 2015
- kiamedia.com — Pressreleases / 3942 / All New 2012 Kia Rio Sedan Priced Under 13500