Overview and Common Failures
Body and Interior The paintwork is very thin and immediately gets chipped, but the body doesn't rust quickly. Corrosion is easiest to find on the rear door, as well as under the plastic overlays. The interior here is made of cheap materials, but they have good wear resistance. Owners praise the good visibility, mirrors, and decent trunk space for its class. Owners complain about the dull interior design, frequent squeaks, and poor sound insulation. The electrical system doesn't cause much trouble and the only regular failure is the stereo.
Engine The 1.1-liter G4HG engine is quite reliable, but it has some nuances. Engines produced before 2009 were recalled for crankshaft replacement under warranty. Also, the cylinder head here cannot tolerate overheating, and the spark plugs sometimes last less than 15,000 km. The 1.2-liter G4LA power unit is considered almost problem-free. On the forum, users note only the not-so-high timing chain lifespan and engine mounts.
Transmission The 5-speed manual M5EF2 transmission is quite reliable, and the only complaint is usually about leaks. At around 100,000 km, control cables tend to stretch and shifting becomes difficult. The 4-speed A4CF0 automatic transmission has a decent lifespan with careful use. However, with overly aggressive driving, the gearbox may require servicing at around 100,000 km. The automatic transmission can also be finicky with the electrical system and has a modest lifespan for its supports.
Suspension The suspension is stiff, the car is clearly tuned for maneuverability rather than comfort. Reliability is high, and up to 100,000 km, only the shock absorbers and stabilizer bushings need replacing. The electric power steering rack is weak and usually starts making noise at around 50,000 km. The brakes, unlike the Kia Picanto, are disc brakes all around, and there are no complaints about them.
