Segment:
Compact SUV / Crossover
Target Audience:
DIY enthusiasts, independent repair shops, and owners seeking detailed technical information for maintenance and repair.
Competitors:
Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Ford Escape, Mazda Tribute, Nissan Xterra (first generation).
Vehicle Appeal:
Affordable entry into the SUV segment, rugged styling, available 4WD, practical for light off-roading and everyday use.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides professional-level diagnostic and repair data, empowering owners to maintain their vehicle effectively and potentially save on repair costs.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, cooling system, lubrication system, exhaust system, transmission (manual and automatic), clutch, driveline, axles, driveshafts, differentials.
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, brake system (including ABS if equipped), wheels and tires.
Body & Electrical:
Body structure, exterior trim, interior trim, HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning), lighting system, instrumentation, power accessories (windows, locks, mirrors), audio system, basic wiring diagrams, fuse/relay locations.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance tasks (oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks), tire rotation, brake inspection, tune-up procedures.
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step repair instructions for virtually all mechanical and electrical components, including engine overhauls, transmission rebuilds, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement, etc.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures, fault code interpretation (if applicable for OBD-II), symptom-based troubleshooting guides, electrical circuit diagnosis.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic fluid changes and adjustments to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, electrical system diagnostics, and bodywork repair.
Digital Format:
PDF (Portable Document Format) is standard, allowing for searchability and easy navigation.
Printability:
High-resolution scans ensuring clarity of text, diagrams, and illustrations for potential printing of specific sections.
Binding:
N/A (Digital format, no physical binding)
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital format, no physical paper)
Type:
5-speed Manual Transmission
Type:
4-speed Automatic Transmission
AWD System:
Part-time 4WD system with electronic transfer case engagement (often controlled by a button/switch).
Transfer Case:
2-speed transfer case (Hi/Lo range) for enhanced off-road capability.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III or equivalent
Length:
Approx. 4,505 mm (177.4 inches)
Width:
Approx. 1,770 mm (69.7 inches)
Height:
Approx. 1,670 mm (65.7 inches)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2,630 mm (103.5 inches)
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 195 mm (7.7 inches)
Passenger Volume:
Approx. 2.83 m³ (100.1 cu ft)
Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seats:
Approx. 800 liters (28.2 cu ft)
Cargo Volume With Rear Seats Folded:
Approx. 1900 liters (67.1 cu ft)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1,500 - 1,700 kg (3,300 - 3,750 lbs) depending on configuration.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
Typically around 2,100 kg (4,630 lbs).
NHTSA Front Impact:
Not explicitly rated by NHTSA for this specific model year in the same way as modern vehicles. Early Sportage models were built on a more traditional body-on-frame platform (shared with Mazda B-Series trucks and Kia Bongo).
ABS:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on some trims.
Traction Control:
Generally not available on this model year.
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags.
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts with pretensioners for front occupants, 3-point lap-and-shoulder belts for rear occupants.
Rollover Protection:
Reinforced body structure, though specific rollover ratings are not readily available for this era. SUV stability characteristics apply.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km).
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 24 months.
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.5 Liters (4.8 US Quarts) with filter change for 2.0L engine.
Engine Oil Type:
API SJ or higher, SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based, HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) or HOAT-compatible coolant.
Common Wear Items:
CV joints, exhaust system components, brake pads and rotors due to age, suspension bushings and ball joints.
Engine Peripherals:
Alternator failure, starter motor issues, and oil leaks from valve cover gasket or oil pan gasket can occur with age.
Electrical Quirks:
Door lock actuators, power window motors, and dashboard warning light malfunctions due to aging wiring or components.
Kia Origins:
Kia Motors Corporation, founded in 1944, initially focused on motorcycles and commercial vehicles before entering the passenger car market.
First Generation Introduction:
The first-generation Sportage (JA) was introduced in 1993 in South Korea and later launched in international markets, including North America, in 1995.
Platform Sharing:
Based on a body-on-frame chassis derived from the Mazda B-Series pickup truck and Kia Bongo light commercial vehicle.
Facelift:
A minor facelift occurred for the 1998 model year, with further refinements leading into the 2000 model year. The 2000 model year represented the latter part of the first generation's lifecycle.
Production Period:
1993-2004 (first generation)
Manufacturing Locations:
South Korea (various Kia plants), also assembled in other regions through CKD (Completely Knocked Down) kits.
Safety Awards:
No prominent safety awards or high ratings for this specific model year and generation.
Consumer Reports Historical Performance:
Generally scored below average in reliability and owner satisfaction compared to contemporary Japanese competitors in its early years.
Emissions Compliance:
Compliant with US EPA and California ARB emissions standards for the year 2000.