Market Segment:
Compact/Subcompact Sedan and Hatchback
Key Competitors:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Focus, Chevrolet Cavalier, Dodge Neon
Vehicle Value Proposition:
Affordable transportation, practical design, fuel efficiency
Trim Levels:
Likely available in LX and SE trims (or similar variations)
Engine Systems:
Engine operation, basic troubleshooting, fluid levels, cooling system, lubrication
Transmission Systems:
Automatic and manual transmission operation, fluid checks
Brakes And Suspension:
Braking system basics, parking brake, suspension components overview
Electrical Systems:
Lighting, fuses, battery care, basic electrical component identification
Comfort And Convenience:
Climate control, interior controls, seats, windows, doors, locks
Safety Features:
Airbags, seat belts, child restraint systems
Instrument Panel And Controls:
Gauges, warning lights, switches, steering wheel controls
Exterior Features:
Doors, windows, mirrors, wipers, exterior lighting
Driving Procedures:
Starting and stopping the engine, shifting gears, parking
Maintenance Procedures:
Checking fluid levels, tire pressure, wiper blade replacement, bulb replacement
Troubleshooting Guidance:
Interpreting dashboard warning lights, basic common issue diagnosis
Emergency Procedures:
Flat tire changing, jump starting, towing information
Fuel And Refueling:
Fuel type recommendations, refueling procedures
Depth Level:
Owner-level maintenance and operation. Does not cover in-depth mechanical repairs or diagnostics.
Engine Type:
Inline 4-Cylinder
Engine Displacement:
1.8 Liter (1793 cc)
Engine Code:
T8D (1.8L DOHC)
Horsepower Estimated:
Approx. 122 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque Estimated:
Approx. 125 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Recommended Fuel:
87 Octane Unleaded Gasoline
Ignition System:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) or Distributor-based
Emissions Control:
Catalytic converter, EGR system
Standard Transmission:
5-Speed Manual
Optional Transmission:
4-Speed Automatic (W4A series)
Automatic Transmission Modes:
Typically 'P', 'R', 'N', 'D', '2', '1' or similar gear selections
Length Overall:
Approx. 171.1 inches (4345 mm)
Width Overall:
Approx. 66.7 inches (1695 mm)
Height Overall:
Approx. 54.5 inches (1385 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 100.4 inches (2550 mm)
Front Track:
Approx. 57.9 inches (1470 mm)
Rear Track:
Approx. 57.5 inches (1460 mm)
Curb Weight Estimate:
Approx. 2500-2700 lbs (1135-1225 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Estimate:
Approx. 3600-3800 lbs (1630-1725 kg)
NHTSA Frontal Crash Rating Driver:
Likely 4 Stars (for 2001 models, but check specific reports)
NHTSA Frontal Crash Rating Passenger:
Likely 4 Stars (for 2001 models, but check specific reports)
IIHS Offset Frontal Crash Rating:
Acceptable to Marginal (typical for vehicles of this class and era)
Anti Lock Braking System ABS:
Optional on some trims/models
Traction Control:
Rarely available on this model
Airbags Front:
Driver and Passenger Frontal Airbags
Seat Belts:
Three-point front and rear seat belts, driver's pretensioner
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH system in rear seats (if equipped, check manual)
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles or 3 months (whichever comes first, under normal driving conditions)
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
If equipped, typically every 15,000 miles or 12 months
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles (depending on spark plug type)
Timing Belt Replacement:
Critical: Every 60,000 miles or 5 years (due to interference engine design)
Engine Oil Type:
API Service SG or Higher, SAE 5W-30 (check manual for climate variations)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.0 US Quarts (3.8 Liters) with filter change
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water)
Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:
Kia/Hyundai Genuine ATF SP-III or equivalent (Dexron III/Mercon may be substituted but SP-III is preferred)
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Dexron III/Mercon ATF or equivalent
Common Problem 1:
Timing belt failure (critical to adhere to replacement schedule)
Common Problem 2:
Catalytic converter issues/failure
Common Problem 3:
Oil leaks from valve cover gasket or oil pan
Common Problem 4:
Electrical gremlins, especially related to power windows or door locks
Common Problem 5:
Suspension wear (bushings, ball joints, tie rods)
Kia Origins:
South Korean automotive manufacturer, founded in 1944 (originally as a bicycle manufacturer)
Sephia Generations:
First generation (1992-1997), Second generation (1997-2003). The 2001 model is part of the second generation.
Second Generation Updates:
Facelifted in 1997, with minor updates for subsequent years. The 2001 model represents the later iteration of the second gen.
Manufacturing Location:
South Korea (primarily)
Production Years Sephia:
1992-2003
Successor Model:
Kia Spectra (introduced for the 2004 model year)
Awards History:
Generally positioned as an economy car. Specific major awards for this model are not widely documented, but it was recognized for its affordability and value.
Consumer Reports Reliability:
Mixed to Below Average for this model year, common for entry-level vehicles of the era. Specific reports should be consulted.
