Vehicle Segment:
Mid-size SUV / Sport Utility Vehicle
Target Audience:
Families, adventurers, those seeking utility and passenger capacity in an SUV.
Key Competitors:
Ford Explorer, Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, Nissan Pathfinder, Chevrolet TrailBlazer.
Seating Capacity:
Typically offered in 5-seat or optional 7-seat configurations.
Body Styles:
Five-door SUV.
Drivetrain Options:
Available in rear-wheel drive (RWD) and four-wheel drive (4WD) configurations.
Engine Operation:
Detailed explanation of engine components, function, and basic operation.
Drivetrain Operation:
Explanation of 2WD/4WD system, differentials, and drivetrain maintenance.
Brake System:
Description of ABS, brake fluid, and proper brake system usage.
Suspension Steering:
Information on suspension components, power steering operation, and tire care.
Electrical System:
Overview of battery, lighting, fuses, and basic electrical component functions.
Comfort Convenience:
Detailed operation of climate control, audio system, power windows/locks, seats, and mirrors.
Safety Features:
Explanation of airbags, seat belts, child restraint systems (ISOFIX/LATCH), and child safety locks.
Instrument Panel Controls:
Identification and function of all dashboard gauges, warning lights, and controls.
Fluid Checks:
Instructions for checking engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and windshield washer fluid levels.
Tire Pressure Maintenance:
Recommended tire pressures and procedures for checking and inflating tires.
Wiper Blade Replacement:
Guidance on replacing windshield and rear wiper blades.
Lamp Replacement:
Instructions for replacing exterior and interior light bulbs.
Fuse Replacement:
Location of fuse boxes and guidance on replacing blown fuses.
Emergency Procedures:
Information on safe operation during emergencies, including flat tire changes and jump-starting.
Troubleshooting Guide:
Basic troubleshooting tips for common dashboard warning lights and minor issues.
Detail Level:
Owner-focused; covers routine checks, basic maintenance, and operation of vehicle features.
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Limited to identifying warning lights and basic operational anomalies; does not include advanced diagnostic codes.
Repair Procedures:
No detailed mechanical or electrical repair procedures are covered; intended for the owner, not a technician.
Engine Code:
G6CU (for 3.5L V6)
Engine Type:
3.5L V6 SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft)
Displacement:
3497 cc (213.4 cu in)
Horsepower:
Approx. 192-200 hp @ 5500 rpm (depending on market and specific tune)
Torque:
Approx. 217-220 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm (depending on market and specific tune)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Fuel Tank Capacity:
Approx. 17.5 gallons (66 liters)
Transmission Type:
4-speed Automatic Transmission
Transmission Type Alternative:
5-speed Automatic Transmission (often paired with more powerful engines if available, though less common for 2005 base models)
Drivetrain Control:
Electronically controlled 4WD system with driver-selectable modes (e.g., 2WD, 4WD Auto, 4WD Lock).
Length:
Approx. 188.4 inches (4785 mm)
Width:
Approx. 74.4 inches (1890 mm)
Height:
Approx. 67.9 inches (1725 mm) (without roof rails)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 106.7 inches (2710 mm)
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 7.9 inches (201 mm)
Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row:
N/A (if 7-seat configuration exists, this is minimal)
Cargo Volume Behind 2Nd Row:
Approx. 46.2 cu ft (1308 liters) (with 3rd row folded, if applicable)
Cargo Volume Behind 1St Row:
Approx. 80.1 cu ft (2268 liters) (with 2nd and 3rd rows folded, if applicable)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 4,200 - 4,500 lbs (1905 - 2041 kg), varies by drivetrain and options.
Towing Capacity:
Up to 5,000 lbs (2268 kg) when properly equipped.
NHTSA Front Crash Test:
Likely 4-star rating (driver) and 5-star rating (passenger) for frontal impact (based on typical ratings for this class/era).
IIHS Side Impact Test:
Likely Good rating (based on typical ratings for this class/era).
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS).
Traction Control:
Optional or standard depending on trim level, Traction Control System (TCS).
Electronic Stability Control:
Optional or standard depending on trim level, Electronic Stability Control (ESC).
Airbags Front:
Driver and front passenger airbags.
Airbags Side:
Optional front side-impact airbags.
Airbags Curtain:
Optional side-curtain airbags for all rows.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters.
Child Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system for child seats.
Audio System:
Standard AM/FM/CD player, often with 6 speakers. Higher trims may feature premium audio systems.
Display Screen:
Basic LCD or LED display for radio/CD information. No integrated navigation system typically.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most trims.
Rear Parking Sensors:
Optional on some higher trim levels.
Auxiliary Input:
May be available as an option on higher trims or aftermarket.
Bluetooth:
Not typically available on the 2005 model year; requires aftermarket integration.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first.
Air Filter Replacement Interval:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as needed based on driving conditions.
Coolant Replacement Interval:
Initial replacement at 60,000 miles (96,000 km), then every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) thereafter.
Transmission Fluid Interval:
Check every 30,000 miles (48,000 km), replace every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or under severe driving conditions.
Engine Oil Specification:
API SN or higher, SAE 5W-30 synthetic or synthetic blend recommended.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.8 quarts (4.5 liters) with filter change for 3.5L V6.
Coolant Specification:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant (e.g., Kia Super Long Life Coolant or equivalent).
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Power Steering Fluid:
Dexron III Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) or equivalent.
Engine Mounts:
Premature wear of engine mounts can lead to vibration and clunking noises.
Oxygen Sensors:
Failure of oxygen sensors can affect fuel economy and engine performance.
Exhaust System Corrosion:
Susceptible to rust and corrosion, especially in areas with road salt.
Window Regulators:
Some reports of power window regulators failing over time.
Manufacturer:
Kia Corporation, South Korean automobile manufacturer.
First Generation Start:
First generation (JC) launched in 2004 for the 2005 model year.
Platform:
Built on a body-on-frame chassis, derived from the Kia Carnival minivan platform (though often debated/rebranded).
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily South Korea (Hwaseong Plant).