Kia RIO
9,645 registered in New Zealand · 2001–2023 · 100% from South Korea
The Kia RIO is a recognisable name on New Zealand roads, with 9,645 registered across model years 2001 to 2023. It averages 6.2 L/100km in fuel consumption and produces an average of 79 kW. Most are petrol-powered hatchbacks with a 1.4L engine.
Below you'll find a complete breakdown of fuel types, body styles, drivetrain options, regional distribution, and estimated running costs. Select a specific model year to see detailed specs, buyer insights, and variant-level data for that generation of the RIO.
Fuel Types
Kia RIO fuel type breakdown: PETROL 97%, DIESEL 3%.
Fleet Age Profile
How many Kia RIO vehicles from each manufacture year are still registered in NZ. Taller bars mean more of that year on the road — better parts availability and more mechanics who know it.
Kia RIO fleet age profile: 2019: 1,001, 2020: 858, 2021: 632, 2022: 344, 2023: 163.
Drivetrain
Transmission
Kia RIO transmissions: 4-GEAR AUTO 55%, 6-GEAR AUTO 23%, 7-GEAR AUTO 9%, 6-GEAR MANUAL 6%, 5-GEAR MANUAL 5%.
Engine Size
Kia RIO engine sizes: 1.4L 41%, 1.4L 28%, 1.6L 18%, 1.0L 9%, 1.5L 4%.
Imported From
Kia RIO imported from: South Korea 100%, Australia 0%, Japan 0%, Thailand 0%, Not Known 0%.
When They Arrived in NZ
When Kia RIO vehicles were first registered in New Zealand — showing import waves and buying trends.
Kia RIO NZ arrival timeline: 2020: 869, 2021: 637, 2022: 351, 2023: 165, 2024: 3.
Estimated Running Costs
Select a model year to estimate fuel costs for that specific Kia RIO.
Colours
Colours shown are approximate representations of NZTA basic colour categories, not exact manufacturer paint codes.
Where They Are in NZ
Kia RIO regional distribution: AUCKLAND: 3,108, DUNEDIN: 535, CHRISTCHURCH: 502, HAMILTON: 452, WELLINGTON: 433.
Body Types
Similar Cars
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many Kia RIO are there in New Zealand?
There are 9,645 Kia RIO vehicles registered in New Zealand as of March 2026, making up 0.3% of the total passenger fleet. Model years range from 2001 to 2023.
How much does it cost to run a Kia RIO?
Based on NZTA fuel economy data, the Kia RIO averages 6.2 L/100km. At current fuel prices ($3.41/L), that works out to roughly $49 per week or $2,537 per year in fuel, assuming 12,000 km of annual driving. Actual costs vary by model year, driving conditions, and fuel type.
What body type is the Kia RIO?
The Kia RIO is primarily classified as a hatchback in the NZTA fleet register. It is also available in other body configurations: saloon, station wagon, light van. The most common fuel type is petrol.
Are Kia RIO cars imported or NZ-new?
100% of Kia RIO vehicles in New Zealand originated from South Korea. The majority arrived as used imports, which is typical for this model. Check the import status and origin country for the specific year you're considering on the individual year pages.