2021 Kia Rio
US · Compact Cars
The 2021 Kia Rio is listed in the US market with gasoline power. Every figure below carries the source it came from, and anything our sources do not publish is left out rather than estimated.
- Engine
- 1.6L 4-cylinder
- Power
- Not available
- Torque
- Not available
- Transmission
- 1-speed CVT
- Drivetrain
- FWD
- Fuel
- Gasoline
- Seating
- Not available
Key Performance & Dimensions
Engine
| Specification | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 1.6L 4-cylinder | |
| Displacement | 1.6 L | |
| Cylinders | 4 | |
| Fuel type | Gasoline | EPA fueleconomy.gov |
Not available from our sources: Aspiration, Power, Torque.
Transmission and drivetrain
| Specification | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Transmission | CVT | EPA fueleconomy.gov |
| Gears | 1 | |
| Drivetrain | FWD | EPA fueleconomy.gov |
Fuel economy and range
| Specification | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Combined | 36 mpg (6.5 L/100 km) | EPA fueleconomy.gov |
| City | 33 mpg (7.1 L/100 km) | |
| Highway | 41 mpg (5.7 L/100 km) |
Not available from our sources: Electric range, Battery capacity.
Trims and configurations
1 configuration listed by our sources. Engines, drivetrains and fuel economy can differ between them.
Recalls
NHTSA lists 2 recall campaigns for this model year. Last checked October 12, 2026.
22V304000: STEERING:COLUMN
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Rio and Forte vehicles. A bolt in the steering column may not be secured properly, which can cause the steering column to detach from the steering rack and result in a loss of steering control.
Remedy: Dealers will tighten the lower steering column u-joint retention bolt, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 27, 2022. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall SC235.
Reported May 5, 2022. View on NHTSA
21V936000: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:MASTER CYLINDER
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Rio vehicles. The brake master cylinder may have been manufactured with sharp edges that can damage the inner oil seal, resulting in reduced braking performance.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the brake master cylinder, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 11, 2022. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall SC223.
Reported December 1, 2021. View on NHTSA
Data sources
- EPA fueleconomy.gov · retrieved October 12, 2026 · US Government public data
- NHTSA vPIC · retrieved October 12, 2026 · US Government public data
Source checked: October 12, 2026
Data verified: October 12, 2026
Specifications can vary by market, trim, configuration and production date. Confirm with the manufacturer before buying parts or making safety decisions. Report an error.
Related vehicles
- 2022 Kia Rio
Gasoline
1.6L 4-cylinder · FWD
36 mpg (6.5 L/100 km) - 2020 Kia Rio
Gasoline
1.6L 4-cylinder · FWD
36 mpg (6.5 L/100 km)
Frequently asked questions
What engine does the 2021 Kia Rio have?
1.6L 4-cylinder. Engines can differ by trim, so check the trim list below.
What is the fuel economy of the 2021 Kia Rio?
Combined fuel economy is 36 mpg (6.5 L/100 km), as published by the source shown in the specification table.
Is the 2021 Kia Rio front-wheel, rear-wheel or all-wheel drive?
Drivetrain: FWD.
Are there recalls for the 2021 Kia Rio?
NHTSA lists 2 recall campaigns for this model year (last checked October 12, 2026). Details are in the Recalls section.