Segment:
Mid-size SUV (Sport Utility Vehicle)
Target Audience:
Families, individuals seeking versatility, off-road capability, and cargo space
Key Competitors:
Ford Explorer, Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, Nissan Pathfinder, Jeep Grand Cherokee
Body Style:
Body-on-frame SUV (though the first generation is unibody, the description often implies traditional SUV traits)
Seating Capacity:
Available in 5-seater and 7-seater configurations
Drivetrain Options:
Available in 2WD (Rear-Wheel Drive) and 4WD/AWD (All-Wheel Drive)
Powertrain:
Engine, Transmission (Automatic and Manual), Drivetrain (4WD/AWD systems)
Chassis:
Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Braking System (ABS, EBD)
Electrical:
Body Control Module (BCM), Engine Control Module (ECM), Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Lighting, Audio System, HVAC Controls, Power Accessories
Body And Trim:
Exterior Body Panels, Interior Trim, Doors, Windows, Seats, Roof Rack
Maintenance:
Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Checks and Top-offs, Tire Rotation, Spark Plug Replacement, Belt Inspection and Replacement
Repair:
Engine component repair/replacement (e.g., cylinder head, pistons), Transmission overhaul/replacement, Brake component repair (e.g., calipers, rotors), Suspension component replacement (e.g., struts, ball joints), Electrical system diagnostics and repair
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based diagnostics, wiring diagrams for fault finding
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers routine maintenance, diagnostics, component-level repair, and complete system overhauls. Includes detailed specifications and torque values.
Engine Type 1:
3.5L V6 Lambda G6CU (MPI)
Horsepower 1:
192 hp @ 5500 rpm (approx.)
Torque 1:
217 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm (approx.)
Engine Type 2:
2.5L Inline-4 (DSL) - Primarily for export markets
Horsepower 2:
140 hp (approx.)
Torque 2:
200 lb-ft (approx.)
Compression Ratio V6:
9.3:1
Fuel Delivery V6:
Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 Octane recommended)
Transmission Type Standard:
5-Speed Manual Transmission (on select base models/trims)
Transmission Type Optional:
4-Speed Automatic Transmission (common on V6 models)
AWD System:
Electronically Controlled Full-Time 4WD System with Variable Torque Distribution (on AWD models)
Length:
Approx. 4,670 mm (183.9 in)
Width:
Approx. 1,870 mm (73.6 in)
Height:
Approx. 1,785 mm (70.3 in) (without roof rails)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2,700 mm (106.3 in)
Curb Weight V6 AWD:
Approx. 1,950 kg (4,299 lbs)
Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row:
Approx. 0.2 m³ (7.1 cu ft)
Cargo Volume Behind 2Nd Row:
Approx. 1.0 m³ (35.3 cu ft)
Cargo Volume Behind 1St Row:
Approx. 2.0 m³ (70.9 cu ft)
NHTSA Front Crash Rating:
4/5 Stars (Driver/Passenger)
IIHS Side Impact Rating:
Good
ABS:
Standard (Anti-lock Braking System)
Ebd:
Standard (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)
Airbags Front:
Standard Dual Frontal Airbags
Airbags Side:
Available Optional Side-Curtain Airbags for 1st and 2nd rows
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts with pretensioners
Audio System:
AM/FM/CD player with 6 speakers (standard). Optional premium audio systems available on higher trims.
Climate Control:
Manual air conditioning standard, optional automatic climate control on higher trims.
Traction Control:
Optional on some models
Aux Input:
Rarely standard, may require aftermarket installation.
Power Outlets:
12V power outlets (front console, cargo area)
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles or 6 months (typical, consult manual for specific recommendations)
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles or 24 months
Spark Plug Replacement V6:
Every 100,000 miles (typically iridium-tipped)
Timing Belt Replacement:
N/A (This generation uses a timing chain)
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-20 or 5W-30 Synthetic Blend (API SM or higher)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 5.0 US quarts (4.7 L) with filter change
Transmission Fluid Type Auto:
Kia Genuine ATF SP-III or equivalent (Dexron-III compatible)
Transmission Fluid Type Manual:
GL-4 Gear Oil (API rating)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant, Green color (50/50 mix with distilled water)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Common Problem 1:
Oil leaks from valve cover gaskets and rear main seal.
Common Problem 2:
Premature wear of suspension components (ball joints, tie rods) due to vehicle weight and usage.
Common Problem 3:
Occasional transmission shifting issues (especially in older automatics), potentially requiring fluid service or valve body inspection.
Common Problem 4:
Check engine light due to various sensor failures (e.g., O2 sensors, MAF sensor).
Previous Generation Award:
The previous generation (body-on-frame) Kia Sorento received 'Best Value' awards in some segments from automotive publications.
Model Year Specific Recognition:
Specific awards for the 2003-2006 models are less prominent compared to later generations, but it was recognized for its value proposition and utility.
Consumer Reports Reliability:
Mixed to average reliability ratings reported by Consumer Reports for this generation.
