Exterior of the 2021 Kia Soul

What are the Differences Between the 2021 and 2020 Kia Rio?

2021 Kia Rio vs 2020 Kia Rio

The upcoming 2021 Kia Rio subcompact sedan model will be one of the very last vehicles from the Kia catalog to receive a 2021 model year update. So, what has changed moving from the 2020 Kia Rio model to the 2021 Kia Rio model? Today at Palmen Kia, it’s the 2021 Kia Rio vs the 2020 Kia Rio!


Kia Rio vs Kia Forte vs Kia Optima


2021 Rio vs 2020 Rio

Model2021 Kia Rio2020 Kia Rio
Baseline Engine1.6L Inline 41.6L Inline 4
Horsepower120 hp120 hp
Torque112 lb-ft112 lb-ft
Standard TransmissionCVT (Continuously Variable-Speed Transmission)CVT (Continuously Variable-Speed Transmission)
Standard DrivetrainFront-Wheel DriveFront-Wheel Drive
Fuel Tank Capacity11.9 gal.11.9 gal.
City Fuel Economy33 MPG33 MPG
Highway Fuel Economy41 MPG41 MPG
Combined Fuel Economy36 MPG36 MPG
Front Legroom42.1 in.42.1 in.
Rear Legroom33.5 in.33.5 in.
Maximum Cargo Capacity13.7 ft313.7 ft3
Total Seating55
Starting MSRP$16,050$15,850
Rear view of the 2022 Kia Soul

2021 Kia Rio – What Else is New?

As shown by the table featured above, the 2021 Kia Rio and the 2020 Kia Rio are identical in terms of carried over capacities, dimensions, and engine specifications. So, what has changed for the 2021 model year of the Kia Rio? Here’s what’s new:

8” Touchscreen with Rear Camera and Wireless Android Auto™ and Apple CarPlay® (Now Standard)

New Rear Bumper Treatment

New Technology Package (15” Alloy Wheels, Automatic Temperature Control, Drive Wise, LED Headlights, and Smart Key with Push Button Start)

Refreshed Front-End Styling (New Bumper and Grille)


Which Kia Models Have a CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission)?


When Does the 2021 Kia Rio Release in the USA?

The 2021 Kia Rio model is set to release in the North American automotive market in the early months of 2021. For more information as it arrives, please continue to read our blog and contact our team here at Palmen Kia of Kenosha, Wisconsin!