Positioning:
The 2006 Kia Sorento positioned itself as a capable mid-size SUV, offering a blend of utility, comfort, and value, often competing with established Japanese and American rivals.
Competitors:
Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Ford Escape, Nissan Xterra, Hyundai Santa Fe.
Features 2006:
Available V6 engine, optional all-wheel-drive, spacious interior, often equipped with a third-row seat in higher trims.
Powertrain:
Engine, Transmission (Automatic and Manual), Drivetrain (AWD/2WD)
Chassis:
Suspension (Front/Rear), Steering, Brakes (ABS, EBD), Wheels and Tires
Electrical:
Engine Control Module (ECM), Body Control Module (BCM), Lighting, Instruments, Audio System, HVAC Controls, Power Accessories
Body:
Body Exterior, Interior Trim, Doors, Windows, Seats, Roof System
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs)
Repair:
Component removal, installation, disassembly, assembly, and adjustment procedures
Technical Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, alignments, electrical schematics
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, detailed electrical troubleshooting, and body repair.
Engine Options:
2.4L Inline-4 (G4CS), 3.5L V6 (G6CU - Mitsubishi 6G74 based)
3.5L V6 Horsepower:
Approximately 192 hp @ 5500 rpm
3.5L V6 Torque:
Approximately 217 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Length:
Approx. 187.9 inches (4773 mm)
Width:
Approx. 74.4 inches (1890 mm)
Height:
Approx. 67.7 inches (1720 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 4,000 - 4,500 lbs (1814 - 2041 kg), varies by configuration.
NHTSA Front Impact:
4-Star (Driver), 4-Star (Passenger) - from NHTSA testing for similar model year.
IIHS Side Impact:
Good (for models with side airbags, if equipped)
Active Safety:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC) (may be optional or standard depending on trim)
Passive Safety:
Front airbags, optional side-impact airbags, optional curtain airbags.
Audio System:
Standard AM/FM/CD player, often with auxiliary input or satellite radio capability on higher trims.
Climate Control:
Manual or Automatic Climate Control (depending on trim level).
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control.
Power Accessories:
Power windows, power door locks, power mirrors.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,750 to 7,500 miles (6,000 to 12,000 km) or 6 to 12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used. Refer to manual for exact schedule.
Timing Belt Replacement:
If equipped with the 3.5L V6, timing belt replacement is critical. Check manual, often around 60,000 to 90,000 miles (96,000 to 145,000 km).
Engine Oil Type:
API SM or SN, SAE 5W-20 or 5W-30 (verify viscosity based on temperature range in manual).
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Kia ATF SP-III (or equivalent)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based, OAT (Organic Acid Technology) type, typically with a pink or red color. Kia genuine coolant or equivalent.
Common Issues 2006 Sorento:
Potential for oil leaks from valve cover gaskets or oil pan, exhaust manifold cracks, occasional transmission shifting issues, suspension component wear (bushings, ball joints).
Kia Heritage:
Kia Motors Corporation, established in 1944, is South Korea's oldest manufacturer of motor vehicles, known for its evolution into a global automotive player with a focus on design and value.
Sorento Generation 1:
The 2006 model year represents the first generation (KM) of the Kia Sorento, which debuted in 2002. It was a body-on-frame SUV, later transitioning to a unibody platform for subsequent generations.
Production Location:
South Korea (primarily Hwaseong Plant)
