Chevrolet Cruze vs. Kia Rio

iSeeCars' unbiased and data-driven comparison of the Chevrolet Cruze and Kia Rio contrasts the two cars across a broad spectrum of vehicle specifications to determine which car is better. In addition to comparing pricing and specs, iSeeCars uses all the ratings, rankings, and insights from its comprehensive analyses of each vehicle model, including calculations of reliability, safety, depreciation, value retention, and the vehicle's projected lifetime recalls (based on analyzing over 25 billion data points). This in-depth evaluation is used to identify which vehicle represents a better overall choice for shoppers who are considering both the Chevrolet Cruze and the Kia Rio.

In comparing the Chevrolet Cruze's and the Kia Rio's specifications and ratings, the Chevrolet Cruze has the advantage in the areas of interior volume and base engine power. The Kia Rio has the advantage in the areas of typical lower range of pricing for one- to five-year-old used cars, and resale value. The Chevrolet Cruze and Kia Rio have the same fuel efficiency. Based on this comparison of the Chevrolet Cruze's and the Kia Rio's specifications and ratings, the two cars are fairly comparable.

Pricing: A used 2019 Chevrolet Cruze ranges from $9,993 to $18,995 while a used 2019 Kia Rio is priced between $9,865 to $17,017.

Resale/Retained Value: Looking at the 5-year depreciation rate for both models, the Chevrolet Cruze loses 40 percent of its value and the Kia Rio loses 29 percent of its value. This means the Kia Rio retains 11 percentage points more of its value and has the advantage of higher resale value versus the Chevrolet Cruze.

Engine Power and Fuel Efficiency Comparison: For engine performance, the Chevrolet Cruze’s base engine makes 153 horsepower, and the Kia Rio base engine makes 130 horsepower. Both the Cruze and the Rio are rated to deliver an average of 32 miles per gallon, with highway ranges of 521 and 440 miles respectively. Both models use regular unleaded.

Passenger Space Comparison: The Chevrolet Cruze, a compact car, has the advantage of offering more interior volume, reflected in more front shoulder room, rear leg room, and cargo space. The Kia Rio, a subcompact car, has the advantage in the areas of front leg room, rear head room and rear shoulder room. The Chevrolet Cruze and Kia Rio are comparable in regards to front head room.

Safety Ratings: The Chevrolet Cruze has an average safety rating of 4.51 out of 5 Stars based on NHTSA's crash test ratings.