2017 Kia Rio: What's New, Specs & Features

Last updated August 4, 2026

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.

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About the 2017 Kia Rio

3rd gen (2012-2017), final year before the 2018 redesign

Kia positions the Rio as its smallest and most accessible car, but not as stripped-down transportation. The brand’s message centers on youthful styling, good fuel economy, easy city-size dimensions, and more everyday usefulness than many small-car rivals. The sedan targets straightforward commuting, while the 5-door adds extra cargo flexibility. In Kia’s own marketing language, the Rio is meant to feel stylish, sporty, and fun while still serving as a practical low-cost daily driver.

The LX is the simple, value-focused Rio, while the EX adds everyday conveniences such as cruise control, Bluetooth, and remote keyless entry. The hatchback-only SX is the sporty, better-equipped version, with a sport-tuned suspension, navigation, a rearview camera, heated leather-trimmed seats, and a sunroof. This was the final year of the third-generation Rio before the 2018 redesign.

2017 Kia Rio specs and features by trim

Feature	2017 Kia RioEX0 in stock	2017 Kia RioLX1 in stock	2017 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	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	12.3–13.7 cu-ft	13.7–15 cu-ft	12.3 cu-ft
Rear Legroom	31.1 in	31.1 in	31.1 in
Seats	5	5	5
Doors	4	4	4
Safety & Security
Alarm System
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 2018 Kia Rio compares

The 2018 Kia Rio is fully redesigned as the first U.S. model year of the fourth generation, built on an all-new platform. This is a major change year rather than a light refresh.

See the full 2018 changes

Frequently asked questions

What changed on the 2017 Kia Rio compared with the 2016 model?

Almost nothing changed for 2017. The Rio carried over with no meaningful updates to its powertrain, styling, safety features, technology, or structure.

Was 2017 the final year of this Kia Rio generation?

Yes. The 2017 Rio was the last model year of the third generation, followed by an all-new 2018 Rio.

Did the 2017 Kia Rio get a new engine?

No. The 2017 Rio retained the 138-hp 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine used the year before.

What was special about the 2017 Kia Rio SX?

The 2017 Rio SX was the sporty, hatchback-only trim. It had a sport-tuned suspension, larger front brakes, paddle shifters, navigation, a rearview camera, heated leather-trimmed seats, push-button start, and a sunroof.

2017 Kia Rio Reviews

What owners are saying about the 2017 Kia Rio.

3.9

2017 Kia Rio

(68 reviews)

5 stars (26)

4 stars (20)

3 stars (17)

2 stars (2)

1 star (3)

No rating

“although the car is good on fuel, I would have loved to be offered something with a little more comforts. I was only offered a basic car, no power anything. I do understand about credit, but dang, no power window. That should be against the law. Definitely needed more room with a small child, but oh well, maybe next one. over all it's a good car so far.”

LKLorine K.
2017 Kia Rio

No rating

“Great gas mileage, plus the added security of a manual transmission (less likely to be stolen) make this a great little car.”

WTWayne T.
2017 Kia Rio