Key Competitors:
Honda Fit, Toyota Yaris, Ford Fiesta, Chevrolet Sonic, Nissan Versa.
Vehicle Strengths:
Affordability, fuel efficiency, compact size for urban maneuverability, practical interior space for its class.
Demographic:
Budget-conscious buyers, urban commuters, first-time car owners, small families.
Engine And Drivetrain:
Engine operation, lubrication, cooling, fuel, exhaust, manual and automatic transmission operation, clutch operation.
Chassis And Suspension:
Steering system, suspension components, wheel and tire information, brake system operation and safety.
Electrical And Lighting:
Instrument cluster and indicators, lighting systems (headlights, taillights, interior), battery and charging system overview, fuse box locations and identification, basic electrical component identification.
Comfort And Convenience:
Climate control system (HVAC), audio system operation, power accessories (windows, locks, mirrors), interior features, seating adjustments, cargo area.
Safety Systems:
Airbag system operation, seat belt usage and adjustments, child restraint systems (LATCH), anti-theft system, emergency procedures.
Maintenance Tasks:
Checking fluid levels (oil, coolant, brake fluid, windshield washer fluid), tire pressure checks, replacing wiper blades, bulb replacement (headlights, taillights, interior), jump starting procedure.
Troubleshooting Guides:
Explanation of dashboard warning lights and their meanings, basic troubleshooting tips for common operational issues.
Depth:
Comprehensive owner-level information. Focuses on safe operation, maintenance, and understanding vehicle features. Does not include detailed repair procedures or diagnostic codes typically found in service manuals.
Engine Code:
G4FA (for 1.6L Gamma engine)
Engine Type:
Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve
Displacement:
1.6 Liters (1591 cc)
Horsepower:
110 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque:
107 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Coolant Type:
Propylene Glycol-based (e.g., Asian Red/Pink)
Recommended Oil Viscosity:
SAE 5W-20
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 3.5 quarts (3.3 liters)
Type:
5-Speed Manual Transmission
Type:
4-Speed Automatic Transmission
Automatic Transmission Features:
Electronically controlled, torque converter lock-up clutch for improved efficiency.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
SPII/SPIII (or equivalent synthetic ATF recommended by Kia)
Length:
Approx. 156.1 inches (3965 mm)
Width:
Approx. 66.1 inches (1680 mm)
Height:
Approx. 58.1 inches (1475 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 97.6 inches (2480 mm)
Cargo Volume:
Approx. 15.1 cu ft (with rear seats up)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 2400-2500 lbs (1089-1134 kg) depending on trim and transmission
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 3500 lbs (1588 kg)
NHTSA Overall Rating:
4 out of 5 stars (for 2011 model)
Braking System:
Front ventilated disc brakes, rear drum brakes (standard). Optional ABS with EBD.
Traction Control:
Not standard on all trims, may be part of Electronic Stability Control (ESC) package.
Airbags:
Front driver and passenger airbags, front side-impact airbags, side curtain airbags.
Seat Belts:
Three-point seat belts for all occupants, pretensioners and load limiters for front seats.
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system in rear outboard seating positions.
Audio System:
Standard AM/FM/CD/MP3 player with auxiliary input jack. Optional satellite radio. Higher trims may feature upgraded speaker systems.
Connectivity:
Auxiliary audio input jack for connecting external music devices.
Cruise Control:
Available on higher trim levels.
Keyless Entry:
Available on select trims.
Oil And Filter Change:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first. Severe driving conditions may require more frequent changes.
Tire Rotation:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km)
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or as needed based on inspection.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or annually.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Iridium spark plugs typically rated for 100,000 miles (160,000 km).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 4.9 quarts (4.6 liters) for the 1.6L engine
Common Concerns:
Occasional reports of premature clutch wear in manual transmissions, minor electrical gremlins (e.g., power window switches), and potential for corrosion on older models if not maintained in rust-prone areas. Some owners have reported slightly underpowered performance on inclines.
Maintenance Tip:
Regular inspection of exhaust hangers and catalytic converter heat shields due to their position and potential for road debris contact.
Manufacturer Origin:
South Korea
Generation:
Second Generation (JB) - 2005-2011 (significant facelift in 2008)
Design Philosophy:
Focus on affordability, practicality, and fuel efficiency, with a move towards more modern styling and improved refinement over previous generations.
Production Years:
2005-2011 (global production), 2011 model year specifically part of the latter half of the second generation.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Gwangmyeong, South Korea; also assembled in other Kia plants globally.
