2023 Kia Rio Keeps Subcompact’s Starting Price Low

Even the highest-end 2023 Kia Rio still slides in under $20,000 to start, continuing the subcompact’s reign as an affordable, fuel-efficient option for a new car purchase.

There isn’t much difference from 2022 in design and features and the pricing remains a good value on its 120-horsepower 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine and continuously variable transmission. The top-spec S now starts at $17,490 (plus a $1,055 destination fee), up only $100. The base LX (a four-door sedan versus the S’s five-door hatch) is $16,550. 

Where the Rio continues to shine (beyond price) is fuel economy. It’s tied for the most fuel-efficient in its class with EPA ratings of 33 mpg city, 41 highway and 36 combined. Only the smaller (and less powerful) Mitsubishi Mirage bests the Rio on this front.

However, a fully loaded S trim hatch adds up to over $21,000 all-in, but that includes a Technology Package with advanced safety features like lane-keeping and following assist, lane departure warning, pedestrian detection and entertainment features with a better audio and tech system. 

For 2023, the Rio’s top competitors are the similarly priced Mirage at $16,245 and the slightly redesigned Nissan Versa, which hasn’t released new pricing yet, but the 2022 started at $16,675. The tiny Chevy Spark was discontinued for next year, but in 2022 featured a low starting price: $13,600. Based on Forbes Wheels’ scoring, the Rio comes out on top of the competition.