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2020 Kia Rio: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The biggest change for the 2020 Kia Rio is a new 1.6-liter engine paired with a continuously variable automatic transmission, improving EPA fuel economy. It is not a redesign, but it is a meaningful powertrain update.
About the 2020 Kia Rio
4th generation (introduced for 2018 in the U.S.), third year and last pre-refresh model year before the 2021 styling and infotainment update.
Kia sells the Rio as a small, space-efficient commuter that is easy to park, easy on fuel, and more polished than many bargain subcompacts. The main draw is simple everyday usefulness: a tidy footprint for city driving, sedan or hatchback body styles, and smartphone-friendly tech without moving into a larger, pricier car. It is basic transportation, but Kia pitches it as a smart, stylish small car rather than a stripped-down penalty box.
The LX is the straightforward Rio sedan, with heated power mirrors, a six-speaker audio system, and smartphone integration. The S is the more convenient version in sedan or hatchback form, adding cruise control, remote keyless entry, a split-folding rear seat, and a rear USB charging port.
What changed, by category
Powertrain
A new 1.6-liter four-cylinder with multi-port fuel injection replaced the previous direct-injected 1.6-liter engine. A continuously variable automatic replaced the six-speed automatic, and EPA fuel economy improved from 28 mpg city and 37 mpg highway to 33 city, 41 highway, and 36 combined.
Tech
A 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto became standard across the sedan and hatchback lineup.
2020 Kia Rio specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl, 1.6 Liter | 4-Cyl, 1.6 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, IVT | Automatic, IVT |
| Drivetrain | FWD | FWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 33 mpg | 33 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 41 mpg | 41 mpg |
| Horsepower | 120 hp | 120 hp |
| Torque | 112 lb-ft | 112 lb-ft |
| Trunk/Cargo | 13.7–17.4 cu-ft | 13.7 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 33.5 in | 33.5 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4–5 | 4 |
| Alarm System | ||
| Automatic Emergency Braking | ||
| Cruise Control | ||
| Rear View Camera | ||
| LED Headlights | ||
| Remote Control Liftgate/Trunk Release | ||
| Satellite Radio | ||
| Smartphone Interface | ||
| Touch Screen Monitor | ||
| Folding Rear Seat | ||
| Remote Keyless Entry | ||
| Tilt Wheel | ||
Frequently asked questions
What changed on the 2020 Kia Rio compared with the 2019 model?
The 2020 Kia Rio received a new 1.6-liter engine, a continuously variable automatic transmission, and better fuel economy. A 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto also became standard across the lineup.
Did the 2020 Kia Rio get better fuel economy?
Yes. The 2020 Rio is EPA-rated at 33 mpg city, 41 mpg highway, and 36 mpg combined. The 2019 LX and S were rated at 28 mpg city and 37 mpg highway.
Does every 2020 Kia Rio have Apple CarPlay and Android Auto?
Yes. A 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is standard on both 2020 Rio trims and applies to the sedan and hatchback lineup.
Was the 2020 Kia Rio redesigned?
No. The 2020 Rio remains part of the fourth generation introduced for 2018. Its main updates are the revised engine and automatic transmission, improved fuel economy, and standard touchscreen smartphone integration.
Did the 2020 Rio sedan and hatchback receive the same main updates?
Yes. Both body styles received the new 1.6-liter engine, continuously variable automatic transmission, 33/41/36 mpg rating, and standard 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
2020 Kia Rio Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2020 Kia Rio.
4.1
2020 Kia Rio
(253 reviews)
“that it is a perfect vehicle to drive around town or for business trips or to get out of town with. the seats are extremely comfortable and its amazing on gas mileage. the vehicle navigation system does everything for you so that you can respond to your messages, listen to music and you can keep your eyes on the road. it turns on a dime, and its easy to control. and the price you cant beat.”
“The Kia Rio is a good, basic vehicle with enough bells & whistles to feel comfortable without breaking the bank.”
Sources
- kiamedia.com — Documenttext / 15274 / Whats New 2020 Rio
- kiamedia.com — Models / Rio / 2020
- kiamedia.com — Models / Rio 5 Door / 2020
- kia.com — Us / Brochures / Brochure Rio 2020
- kiamedia.com — Models / Rio / 2019
- kiamedia.com — Documenttext / 16859 / 2021 Rio Sedan Overview
- kiamedia.com — Documenttext / 16858 / 2021 Rio 5 Door Overview
- kiamedia.com — Rio / 2020 / Features
- kiamedia.com — Rio / 2019 / Features
- kiamedia.com — Rio / 2021 / Features