2016 Kia Rio: What's New, Specs & Features

Last updated August 4, 2026

The 2016 Kia Rio’s main change is a mid-cycle refresh for both the sedan and 5-door, with revised exterior styling and a quieter, more polished cabin. The SX also gains several previously optional features as standard equipment.

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About the 2016 Kia Rio

3rd generation Rio (2012-2017), refreshed for 2016 and followed by the all-new 2018 Rio.

Kia positions the Rio as its small, efficient entry point: a subcompact sedan or hatchback with sharper styling than many budget rivals, useful passenger and cargo space for the class, and a stronger standard-feature story than shoppers might expect at this size. Its core job is simple daily transportation with easy parking, solid fuel economy, and enough comfort and convenience to avoid feeling stripped down.

The LX remains the straightforward, value-focused Rio, while the EX adds everyday comforts such as cruise control, Bluetooth, keyless entry, and a more adjustable steering wheel. The SX is the sportier, more upscale version, with firmer suspension tuning, paddle shifters, navigation, push-button start, heated leather-trimmed front seats, and a sunroof.

What changed, by category

Styling

Both the sedan and 5-door receive a revised grille, updated front bumper details, and a redesigned rear bumper and reflector layout. Cabin trim details are also updated for a cleaner look.

Tech

On the SX, navigation with a touchscreen and rear-camera display, proximity keyless entry, and push-button start become standard rather than optional.

Structural

Kia adds more high-density sound-deadening foam in the body to reduce cabin noise.

2016 Kia Rio specs and features by trim

Feature	2016 Kia RioEX1 in stock	2016 Kia RioLX2 in stock	2016 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	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
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
Remote Control Liftgate/Trunk Release
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 2017 Kia Rio compares

The 2017 Kia Rio is a carryover with no major changes. It returns with the same 138-hp 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine and familiar sedan and hatchback lineup.

See the full 2017 changes

Frequently asked questions

What changed on the 2016 Kia Rio compared with the 2015 model?

The 2016 Rio gets refreshed front and rear styling, updated cabin trim, and more sound-deadening material. The SX also makes navigation, a touchscreen, proximity keyless entry, push-button start, heated leather-trimmed front seats, and a sunroof standard.

Is the 2016 Kia Rio a full redesign?

No. The 2016 Rio is a mid-cycle refresh of the third-generation model, not a full redesign. The all-new next-generation Rio arrives for 2018.

Did the 2016 Kia Rio get a new engine?

No. The 2016 Rio carries over the 1.6-liter, 138-horsepower four-cylinder engine.

What became standard on the 2016 Kia Rio SX?

The 2016 Rio SX makes navigation, a touchscreen, a rear-camera display, proximity keyless entry, push-button start, heated leather-trimmed front seats, and a power sunroof standard. These features were optional on the 2015 SX.

Is the 2016 Kia Rio meaningfully different from the 2015 model?

Yes, but the differences are moderate rather than transformative. The 2016 model has updated styling, extra sound insulation, revised cabin trim, and more standard equipment on the SX, while the basic platform and engine carry over.

2016 Kia Rio Reviews

What owners are saying about the 2016 Kia Rio.

3.9

2016 Kia Rio

(192 reviews)

5 stars (51)

4 stars (78)

3 stars (50)

2 stars (11)

1 star (2)

No rating

“It was a good value for the money, if you need an inexpensive car with good mileage, this is the way to go.”

DSDaniel S.
2016 Kia Rio

No rating

“I, Really Enjoy my Rio [Name]. It's a Great small car very good on Gas. I'm so Please and Happy.”

ACAmy C.
2016 Kia Rio 4 Dr

“I love this car! It handles well in all weather. It's fuel efficient and I get 31 mpg on the highways. It's attractive looking and handles excellent. I would definitely recommend a Kia Rio.”

MAMark A.
2016 Kia Rio