“Consumer reports and how people felt about my other choices were the deciding factors. I also had in mind though that I wanted a car that would give me the same value as my 1998 Ford Escort and after more research I realized how similar they are and came to the conclusion it would be the best value for what I was looking for.”
2015 Kia Rio: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2015 Kia Rio is a carryover with no major product changes. It keeps the same sedan and hatchback lineup, three-trim range, and 138-hp 1.6-liter engine as the 2014 model.
About the 2015 Kia Rio
3rd gen (2012-2017), fourth model year, just before the light 2016 styling/interior refresh.
The 2015 Rio is Kia’s small, city-friendly entry car, sold as either a sedan or a hatchback. Kia positions it as a value-focused subcompact that does not feel stripped down, pairing a relatively strong 138-hp engine with useful passenger room, a flexible cargo area in hatchback form, and more available comfort and tech than many budget small cars of its time. The core appeal is simple: easy size, solid everyday efficiency, and a surprising amount of equipment once you move above LX.
The LX is the straightforward version, with air conditioning, a USB audio input, and a split-folding rear seat. The EX adds everyday conveniences such as an automatic transmission, Bluetooth, cruise control, and keyless entry, while the SX brings a sport-tuned suspension, paddle shifters, a touchscreen with a rear camera, and LED lighting.
2015 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 | 12.3–13.7 cu-ft | 13.7–15 cu-ft | 12.3–13.7 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 2015 Kia Rio redesigned or refreshed?
No. The 2015 Kia Rio carries over without a redesign or meaningful styling, equipment, safety, or mechanical updates.
Did the 2015 Kia Rio get a different engine?
No. The 2015 Rio retains the 138-hp 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine used for 2014, along with the same basic transmission lineup.
Which body styles and trims does the 2015 Kia Rio have?
The 2015 Kia Rio comes as a sedan or hatchback in LX, EX, and SX trims. LX covers the basics, EX adds comfort and convenience features, and SX has sportier suspension tuning and more built-in technology.
How is the 2015 Kia Rio different from the 2016 model?
The 2015 Rio predates the light refresh introduced for 2016. The 2016 model received revised front and rear styling plus cabin updates, while the 2015 retains the earlier design.
Is the 2015 Kia Rio meaningfully different from the 2014 model?
No. The 2015 Rio is essentially a carryover from 2014, with the same body-style range, trim ladder, engine, and core equipment. For a used example, condition, mileage, and service history matter more than the model-year difference.
2015 Kia Rio Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2015 Kia Rio.
4.1
2015 Kia Rio
(107 reviews)
“It's a great vehicle for its price but nothing more. Good for first-time new car buyers who'd like to boost their credit in order to get a better vehicle to fit their needs.”
“I think cruise control should come with the vehicle and it was disappointing when I found out that my KIA 2015 didn't have it and my Honda 1999 had it.”