Rio or Ceed - which used car is better?

These models from Kia have been topping the charts for new car sales for more than a decade. Not surprisingly, the secondary market is full of offers. It is important to choose a worthwhile option, and this is not easy, especially if a person does not know much about Rio and Sid. In the review, we will analyze Ceed 2 generations, produced from 2012 to 2018, and Rio 3 generations (2011-2017).

General comparison

The machines are almost the same in size, but at the same time they have a number of features. Sid was produced in a hatchback (occasionally there are station wagons), while Rio can also be found in a sedan, where the trunk is larger.



In Ceed, the tank volume is 53 liters, in Rio - 43. Both cars are not designed for long trips, the consumption is approximately the same - more than 8 liters per 100 km in the combined cycle and a little more than 6 liters outside the city. But at the same time, it is recommended to fill in the 95th gasoline in Sid, and the 92nd can also be used in Rio, which allows you to save on refueling.

The exterior of the cars is in many ways similar, since these are Kia products produced in the same period. The characteristic shape of the grille and curved optics make the cars recognizable. In Side, all elements are more pronounced, the body has embossed curves, top-end configurations look especially good, the budget line looks less impressive. Rio is much simpler, but it is also positioned as an everyday utility car for quickly moving around the city.



Comfort directly depends on the cabin and in Side it is an order of magnitude more spacious, the ceiling height is greater, and the seats are made in such a way that people with different heights can comfortably sit on them. Ergonomics is also on top - the center console is turned towards the driver, a convenient multimedia display, a small number of physical buttons.

In Rio, everything is an order of magnitude simpler, this applies to seats, dashboard and other elements. The materials are also less reliable, the appearance deteriorates over time. But the main problem is the small width of the cabin, three adults will not be able to comfortably sit in the back. It is worth highlighting the convenience of the trunk in this model.



In terms of comfort, the Ceed wins, it has a smooth ride, the suspension compensates for bumps, and driving is comfortable. Rio is more rigid and noisy, but it wins in terms of dynamics.

Sid has 6 complete sets, it is better not to consider the basic one, since its quality raises questions. Rio has 4 options, and even the starting one has good performance characteristics.

Pros and cons of Kia Ceed with mileage

We will deal with the features of used cars, over the years they have shown both advantages and disadvantages. Engines of 1,4 and 1,6 liters are almost the same, since these are the same units with different piston strokes. The lower-volume variant lacks power, especially at low revs. Motors require periodic valve adjustment, the timing chain is also quite noisy.



Engines run normally up to 300, but the chain needs to be changed after 000-100 thousand. In the same period, the neutralizer requires attention, it is changed or removed from the system altogether. If the car idles erratically, the throttle body most likely needs to be cleaned. There are frequent problems with ignition coils, this is also a "sore".

The six-speed mechanics are also reliable, but after 100, leaks of the input shaft seals are not uncommon, sometimes 000 and 2 gears do not switch well in cold weather. The machine runs up to 3, but it requires maintenance in accordance with the regulations. Robotic boxes in the pre-styling version had their own problems. After restyling, they disappeared, so it's better to take the 200-000 versions.

Suspension and chassis are quite reliable, but when driving on bad roads, you often have to change the struts and stabilizer bushings. Another sore spot is steering tips, problems with wheel bearings are not uncommon due to their short resource.





The front seats are squeezed over time, the upholstery is very worn out, so you should definitely look under the covers. Damage to the heating and stretching of the springs is a common occurrence.

Due to the abundance of electrics, it is worth checking all the functions, minor malfunctions accumulate, a car can have a whole bunch of such surprises.



There are usually no problems on the body and bottom, if the car has not been in an accident. But it is worth inspecting all the elements, there are also options with foci of corrosion. The quality of the paintwork is not the best, over time it is overwritten.

Pros and cons of Kia Rio with mileage

This model used 1,4 and 1,6 liter engines. But the difference between them is minimal in terms of fuel consumption and dynamics. Outwardly, the units can only be distinguished by marking. The engine is designed for 180 runs, but in fact it runs under 000. And if the car was filled with only 250 gasoline and the oil was changed every 95 thousand kilometers, then the unit goes through all 10 without overhaul.



At about a hundred thousand mileage, you need to change the chain and adjust the valve clearances. Also, most often the catalyst begins to fail, it is usually cut out and the ECU is reflashed. If the problem is ignored, particles from the crumbling converter will fall into the piston and cause premature wear.

The weak point is the radiator. Over time, it becomes clogged and if you do not wash it at least once every 2 years, in the summer the car will overheat.



Oddly enough, the automatic transmission in this model is more reliable and durable than mechanics. With a timely oil change, she takes care of 300, it is necessary to diagnose the unit, since it is not known how it was operated. As for the mechanics, you should check the clarity of the shift, paying special attention to the third gear.

Rio's suspension is not bad, but it has one drawback - the rear shock absorbers are too soft. Because of this, the car begins to rock when driving on the highway. Most often, drivers put the option harder and this solves the problem. After 40-50 thousand mileage, the front hub bearings become loose, you should not change them immediately, often tightening the nut allows you to eliminate the backlash.



The steering rack also needs attention, the “sore” are the bushings, which are easy to replace to get rid of the knock. A heavy steering wheel is not a sign of a faulty power steering pump, most often the problem can be fixed by lubricating the steering cardan shaft.

The paintwork does not differ in quality and durability - the layer is thin, chips appear and the metal begins to rust. Many cars have been in an accident, you need to check the geometry of the car and the gaps between the elements.

Hack and predictor Aviator

If comfort is important to you and you want to drive a more solid car, Sid is more suitable. It is smoother in motion, the noise level inside is lower, but at the same time the dynamics are worse. If you choose a solid option that was with one owner, it will not cause problems. No one is immune from age-related breakdowns, but this is normal.

Rio is a workhorse suitable for everyday use, high-torque and easy to operate. When choosing, it is important to find an option that is not "killed" in a taxi, cases of twisting the mileage are not uncommon. Maintenance and repairs are relatively inexpensive, which is also important.