Target Audience:
Budget-conscious consumers, first-time car buyers, urban commuters
Competitors:
Hyundai Accent, Ford Fiesta, Chevrolet Aveo, Toyota Echo, Honda Fit (early models)
Value Proposition:
Affordability, fuel efficiency, decent reliability for its class
Design Philosophy:
Practical and functional design with a focus on economy and ease of use.
Markets Covered:
Global (North America, Europe, Asia)
Trim Levels Covered:
All trim levels (e.g., LX, SE, RS)
Estimated Page Count:
1500+
Type:
Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, cooling system, exhaust system, powertrain control module (PCM), automatic transmission, manual transmission, drivetrain (front-wheel drive)
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (ABS optional), wheels and tires
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting system, instrumentation, body electricals (power windows, locks, mirrors), HVAC controls, audio system, wiring diagrams
Body:
Exterior body panels, interior trim, safety systems (airbags, seatbelts), body sealing, glass and mirrors
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting charts, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), component testing procedures, circuit testing
Repair:
Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement, electrical component repair, body panel repair, exhaust system repair, HVAC system repair
Installation:
Component replacement procedures for all major systems
Depth:
Comprehensive: covers routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including detailed diagnostic procedures and electrical schematics.
Length:
Approx. 3,810 mm (149.9 in)
Width:
Approx. 1,665 mm (65.5 in)
Height:
Approx. 1,470 mm (57.9 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2,430 mm (95.7 in)
Curb Weight Manual:
Approx. 1020 kg (2249 lbs)
Curb Weight Automatic:
Approx. 1050 kg (2315 lbs)
Trunk Volume:
Approx. 274 liters (9.7 cu ft)
NHTSA Frontal Driver:
Not extensively tested for this model year in the US market.
NHTSA Frontal Passenger:
Not extensively tested for this model year in the US market.
ABS:
Optional (Anti-lock Braking System)
Electronic Brake Force Distribution:
Often paired with ABS if equipped
Airbags Driver:
Standard (Frontal)
Airbags Passenger:
Standard (Frontal)
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seatbelts, pretensioners for front seats
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH system (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren)
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for exact intervals).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000-100,000 miles (96,000-160,000 km), depending on plug type (e.g., iridium recommended for longevity).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Not applicable - Engines use timing chains.
Engine Oil Type 1.6L:
API SG or higher, SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 (check manual for ambient temperature suitability).
Engine Oil Capacity 1.6L:
Approx. 3.8 liters (4.0 US quarts)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze/coolant (Asian vehicle specific or universal blue/green).
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 manual transmission fluid.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Kia Genuine ATF SP-III or equivalent (e.g., Dexron III compatible).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Engine Mounts:
Can degrade over time leading to vibration and engine noise.
Clutch Wear:
Manual transmission clutches can wear out, especially with aggressive driving.
Suspension Components:
Ball joints, tie rod ends, and bushings can wear, leading to steering looseness and uneven tire wear.
Rear Wheel Bearings:
Can develop noise and require replacement.
Power Window Motors:
Can fail, requiring replacement of the motor or regulator assembly.
Kia Origins:
Founded in 1944, initially as a manufacturer of steel tubing and bicycle parts. Entered automotive manufacturing in the late 1960s.
First Generation Launch:
Introduced in 1997 in Korea, with international markets receiving it from 1999. The 2004 model year represents the facelifted version of the first generation.
Facelift Details:
The 2004 model year typically featured updated exterior styling (headlights, grille, bumpers), revised interior trim, and potential powertrain refinements.
Manufacturing Locations:
South Korea, Malaysia, Philippines, Vietnam
Production Years First Gen:
1997-2005
J D Power Reliability:
Generally rated as average to below average for reliability in its class by JD Power and Associates for this generation.
Consumer Reports:
Mixed reviews, often cited for value but some concerns regarding long-term reliability and build quality compared to Japanese competitors.
Safety Certifications Usdm:
Meets US Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS).
