Target Demographic:
Families, individuals seeking a comfortable and well-equipped sedan
Key Competitors:
Hyundai Sonata, Kia Optima, Chevrolet Malibu, Ford Taurus, Toyota Camry, Honda Accord
Design:
Distinctive styling, European-influenced design (Giugiaro)
Interior:
Spacious cabin, comfortable seating, often well-equipped for its class
Value Proposition:
Offered a compelling blend of features, comfort, and price point, aiming to compete with established Japanese and American brands.
Powertrain:
Engine Mechanical, Engine Control System, Fuel System, Exhaust System, Automatic Transmission, Manual Transmission
Chassis:
Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Brake System (Hydraulic, ABS), Wheels & Tires
Electrical:
Body Electrical, Powertrain Electrical, Lighting System, Instrumentation & Controls, Audio System, Power Accessories, HVAC Electrical
Body:
Body Exterior & Interior, Doors, Windows, Seats, Trim Panels, Structural Components
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Fluid Changes, Filter Replacements, Inspections
Repair:
Component Removal & Installation, Diagnosis & Troubleshooting, Electrical Component Repair, Engine Rebuilds, Transmission Overhaul
Diagnostics:
OBD-II Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Wiring Diagrams, Component Testing Procedures
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic maintenance to in-depth diagnostics and major component overhauls.
Engine Type 1:
Inline-4, DOHC
Displacement 1:
2.0 Liters (1998 cc)
Horsepower 1:
130 hp @ 5400 rpm (approx.)
Torque 1:
137 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (approx.)
Engine Type 2:
Inline-4, DOHC
Displacement 2:
2.2 Liters (2198 cc)
Horsepower 2:
140 hp @ 5400 rpm (approx.)
Torque 2:
145 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (approx.)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Ignition System:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS)
NHTSA Frontal Driver Rating:
Not extensively documented for this model year, likely average for its class at the time.
NHTSA Frontal Passenger Rating:
Not extensively documented for this model year, likely average for its class at the time.
ABS:
Available on higher trims, standard on some models.
Airbags:
Driver and Front Passenger Airbags standard
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts for all occupants, pretensioners for front seats.
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH system (or equivalent) may be present depending on region.
Audio System:
Standard AM/FM/Cassette or CD player. Optional premium audio systems available on higher trims.
Display:
Basic digital or analog climate controls and radio displays.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most models.
Anti Lock Brakes:
Optional or standard depending on trim level and market.
Connectivity Options:
Limited by 2001 standards; no integrated Bluetooth or USB ports typically.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Engine Oil Filter Replacement:
With every oil change.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 4 years.
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or SH, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (check owner's manual for specific viscosity based on temperature).
Engine Oil Capacity 2.0L:
Approximately 4.0 Liters (4.2 US Quarts) with filter.
Engine Oil Capacity 2.2L:
Approximately 4.5 Liters (4.8 US Quarts) with filter.
Coolant:
Ethylene Glycol based, 50/50 mix with distilled water. Check for Dexcool compatibility if specified.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Engine Performance:
Occasional issues with idle control valves, sensor failures (e.g., crankshaft position sensor), and ignition coil problems.
Transmission:
Potential for rough shifting or delayed engagement in automatic transmissions; clutch wear in manual versions.
Electrical Systems:
Corrosion on electrical connectors, issues with power window regulators, and HVAC blower motor failures are not uncommon.
Suspension:
Wear in bushings, ball joints, and tie rod ends can lead to noise and handling issues.
Body Corrosion:
Rusting can occur in common areas like wheel wells, rocker panels, and around the windows, especially in climates with road salt.
