Segment:
Compact Sedan/Hatchback
Target Audience:
Budget-conscious consumers, first-time car buyers, value-oriented families
Key Competitors:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Focus, Chevrolet Cobalt, Hyundai Elantra
Value Proposition:
Affordable pricing, decent fuel economy, practical interior, available in sedan and hatchback body styles.
Reliability Perception:
Generally considered reliable for its class, with some common minor issues.
Utility:
Empowers owners and independent repair shops with factory-level diagnostic and repair information, reducing reliance on costly dealership services.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, engine management, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, transmission (manual and automatic)
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, brake system (hydraulic, ABS), wheels and tires
Electrical:
Body electrical, lighting, HVAC electrical, instrument panel, audio system, power accessories, powertrain control modules, body control modules
Body:
Exterior body panels, interior trim, doors, windows, mirrors, seats, body repair procedures, corrosion protection
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), electrical circuit testing, symptom-based diagnostics
Repair:
Component removal and installation, sub-assembly repair, engine rebuild procedures, transmission overhaul
Adjustments:
Wheel alignment, parking brake adjustment, idle speed adjustments
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, diagnostic parameters
Depth:
Comprehensive: From basic fluid checks to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical system diagnostics and body repair.
Transmission Type 1.6L:
5-Speed Manual
Transmission Type 2.0L:
4-Speed Automatic
Automatic Transmission Control:
Electronic Control Unit (ECU) for shift logic and diagnostics
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-85
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Kia Genuine ATF SP-III or equivalent
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
Good
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
Good
NHTSA Side Impact Front Seat:
Good
NHTSA Side Impact Rear Seat:
Good
IIHS Moderate Overlap Front:
Acceptable
ABS:
Standard on most trims
Traction Control:
Optional on some trims
Electronic Stability Control Esc:
Not widely available on this model year
Airbags Front:
Driver and front passenger airbags
Airbags Side:
Optional front side-impact airbags on some trims
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seatbelts, pretensioners, load limiters
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system
Audio System Standard:
AM/FM stereo with CD player, 4 speakers
Audio System Optional:
Upgraded audio system with more speakers, steering wheel audio controls (on higher trims)
Auxiliary Input:
Optional on some models
Cruise Control:
Standard on EX trims, optional on others
Keyless Entry:
Optional on most trims
Bluetooth:
Not available from factory
Usb Port:
Not available from factory
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions)
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months
Spark Plug Replacement 2.0L:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) (Iridium plugs)
Timing Belt Replacement:
Not applicable (uses timing chain on 2.0L G4GC engine; check manual for 1.6L G4ED if it has a belt or chain)
Engine Oil Type:
API SM/SN or ILSAC GF-4/GF-5, SAE 5W-20 or 5W-30
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.5 quarts (4.3 liters) with filter change (for 2.0L)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol-based, HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology), Pre-mixed 50/50
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 7.0 quarts (6.6 liters)
Common Problem 1:
Front suspension noises (e.g., worn strut mounts, ball joints)
Common Problem 2:
Check Engine Light due to O2 sensor failures or evaporative emissions system leaks
Common Problem 3:
Interior accessory failures (e.g., power window motors, door lock actuators)
Common Problem 4:
Cooling system leaks (e.g., radiator, hoses)
Common Problem 5:
Catalytic converter failure (less common, but possible with poor engine maintenance)
Manufacturer:
Kia Motors Corporation (South Korea)
Previous Generation:
Kia Sephia
Redesign Basis:
Shared platform with Hyundai Elantra (XD generation)
Production Location:
Gwangmyeong, South Korea; Westmoreland, Pennsylvania, USA (CKD assembly)
Production Start Year:
2003
Production End Year:
2009
Industry Awards:
None major noted specifically for the 2007 model year; generally recognized as a value leader in its class.
Consumer Reports Reliability:
Average to Below Average (historically, depending on specific year and component)
Emissions Standards:
Meets EPA and California Air Resources Board (CARB) emissions standards for its model year.