Segment:
Compact SUV / Crossover
Competitors 2002:
Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Ford Escape, Nissan Xterra, Suzuki Vitara
Market Appeal:
Affordable, reliable utility vehicle with optional four-wheel drive, practical for everyday use and light off-roading.
Manual Value:
Provides essential technical data for DIY repairs and professional servicing, reducing reliance on expensive dealership labor.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, exhaust, engine control system (ECM)
Drivetrain:
Manual transmission (M5SR1), Automatic transmission (4-speed automatic), transfer case (if applicable), driveshafts, differentials, axles
Chassis:
Suspension (front struts, rear multi-link), steering system, braking system (front discs, rear drums/discs), wheels, tires
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrument cluster, power accessories, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, body control module (BCM)
Body:
Exterior body panels, interior trim, seats, doors, windows, HVAC system, safety restraints (airbags, seatbelts)
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, brake pad replacement, belt inspection/replacement
Repair:
Engine overhauls, transmission rebuilds, suspension component replacement, brake caliper service, electrical diagnostics and component replacement, body panel repair
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and their meanings, wiring harness checks
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls. Includes detailed diagnostic procedures and specifications.
Engine Type:
Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve
Displacement:
1998 cc (2.0 Liters)
Horsepower:
Approx. 128-130 hp @ 5500-6000 rpm (varies by market and specification)
Torque:
Approx. 135-137 lb-ft @ 3000-4000 rpm (varies by market and specification)
Injection:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant (e.g., Kia Genuine Long Life Coolant or equivalent)
Oil Type:
API SG, SH, SJ or higher; SAE 5W-30, 10W-30, 10W-40 (depending on climate)
Type:
5-Speed Manual Transmission (M5SR1)
Type:
4-Speed Automatic Transmission
Drive Options:
2WD (Rear-wheel drive) or 4WD (Four-wheel drive, often part-time with selectable high/low range)
Fluid Specifications Manual
Transmission Fluid Type:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90
Fluid Specifications Automatic
Transmission Fluid Type:
Dexron III or equivalent
Length:
Approx. 4,350 mm (171.3 in)
Width:
Approx. 1,795 mm (70.7 in)
Height:
Approx. 1,730 mm (68.1 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2,600 mm (102.4 in)
Cargo Volume:
Varies, but generally competitive for its class with seats up and down.
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1,400-1,600 kg (3,086-3,527 lbs), depending on configuration (2WD/4WD, transmission)
Towing Capacity:
Generally around 1,000-2,000 lbs (450-900 kg), check specific market regulations.
NHTSA Front Impact:
Not extensively rated by NHTSA in a standardized way for this era, but generally considered reasonably safe for its class.
ABS:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Rarely available on this model.
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags (standard on most trims)
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts with pretensioners for front occupants
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Engine Oil Filter Replacement:
At every oil change.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or annually.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or annually (if equipped).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 4 years, whichever comes first. Crucial due to interference engine design.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Platinum plugs: ~100,000 miles (160,000 km). Standard plugs: ~30,000 miles (48,000 km).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.5 liters (4.8 US quarts) with filter change.
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 6.5 liters (6.9 US quarts).
Timing Belt Failure:
Critical to replace per schedule due to interference engine design, failure causes severe internal damage.
Rear Main Seal Leaks:
Occasional oil leaks from the rear main seal can occur.
Automatic Transmission Issues:
Some models may experience rough shifting or transmission slippage if fluid is not maintained.
Cv Joint Wear:
Front CV joints can wear, especially with off-road use or torn boots.
Korean Automaker:
Kia Motors Corporation, a South Korean automotive manufacturer.
First Generation Launch:
Originally launched in 1997 in Korea, but widely introduced to international markets including North America in 1999 for the 2000 model year. The 2002 model represents a refinement of the initial design.
Production Period:
1997–2004 (First Generation)
Manufacturing Locations:
South Korea (primarily Gwangmyeong plant), also assembled in other locations via CKD kits.
