Used Kia Rio for sale near Glenrothes

CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 4.2 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 31.9%
Overall CarGurus rating: 4.2 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 400
Average Price: Around £9,000

Kia Rio (2017-present) Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
As sensible and practical as superminis get	A bit of a yawn to look at
The seven-year warranty is class-leading	Slow 1.2-litre petrol engine
Perky 1.0-litre turbo engines	Nothing like as much fun as a Ford Fiesta to drive

Quick Summary

The Kia Rio (2017-present) is a sensible and practical supermini that prioritises value and user-friendliness over flair. While it may not be the most well-known small car, it offers competitive pricing, generous equipment levels, and a class-leading seven-year/100,000-mile warranty. Its interior is practical and spacious, with a 325-litre boot and easy-to-use controls, making it a car that pleases the head over the heart.

On the road, the Rio delivers a comfortable ride, handling most imperfections smoothly. While it lacks the verve of rivals like the Ford Fiesta, the 1.0-litre turbo engines offer good performance, and fuel economy is respectable at around 45mpg. Affordable servicing further enhances its appeal as a hassle-free and financially sound choice in the small hatchback segment, protecting you in the unlikely event things go wrong.

Best for: Buyers seeking reliable, affordable, and user-friendly transport with minimal hassle, those prioritising practicality and a comfortable ride, and drivers who value a long warranty.

Not ideal for: Buyers looking for an exciting or visually striking car, those who demand the finest driving dynamics like a Ford Fiesta, or those needing a powerful entry-level engine.


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the Rio if: You're seeking reliable, affordable, and user-friendly transport with minimal hassle, you prioritise practicality and a comfortable ride, or you value a long warranty.

Consider alternatives if: You're looking for an exciting or visually striking car, you demand the finest driving dynamics, or you need a powerful entry-level engine.

Competitive Position: The Kia Rio (2017-present) stands out in the supermini market primarily due to its exceptional value, class-leading seven-year warranty, and practical, user-friendly nature. While it doesn't offer the premium badge appeal or the dynamic driving experience of some rivals, its affordability, comfortable ride, and low running costs make it a highly sensible choice. It's particularly attractive to budget-conscious buyers and those who appreciate a no-nonsense, reliable vehicle.

Kia Rio Review

The Overall CarGurus rating: that informs these recommendations is based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from January 2026, CarGurus expert reviews, and CarGurus user reviews.