Market Position:
Mid-size SUV segment, competing with vehicles like the Toyota Highlander, Ford Explorer, and Honda Pilot.
Competitive Strengths:
Spacious interior, robust powertrain options, strong value proposition, and available third-row seating.
Key Features Vehicle:
Body-on-frame construction, available V6 engine, optional AWD, multiple trim levels offering varying features.
Key Features Manual:
Authoritative, OEM-level technical data, detailed illustrations, diagnostic procedures, and part number references.
Engine:
Detailed diagnostics, repair, and overhaul procedures for gasoline and diesel engines.
Transmission:
Repair and maintenance for automatic and manual transmissions.
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) system repairs, including differentials and drive shafts.
Brakes:
Diagnosis, repair, and maintenance of ABS, disc and drum brake systems.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension component diagnosis, replacement, and alignment procedures.
Steering:
Power steering system repair, including pump, rack, and linkage.
Electrical:
Comprehensive wiring diagrams, component testing, and troubleshooting for all electrical systems.
HVAC:
Air conditioning and heating system diagnosis and repair.
Body And Interior:
Exterior panel repair, interior trim, seating, and glass replacement.
Chassis:
Frame and chassis component inspection and repair.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance intervals, fluid changes, filter replacements, and tune-up procedures.
Diagnostics:
System troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, and fault code interpretation.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major components and systems.
Disassembly Reassembly:
Detailed procedures for component removal and installation.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repairs.
Depth:
Professional technician level, suitable for complex diagnostics and major overhauls.
Engine 1:
2.5L DOHC I4 (G4CP), 16-valve
Engine 2:
3.5L DOHC V6 (G6CU), 24-valve
Engine 3:
2.5L CRDi Turbo Diesel (J3), 16-valve (Market Dependent)
Horsepower 2 5L I4:
Approx. 140-160 hp (varies by market and tune)
Torque 2 5L I4:
Approx. 150-170 lb-ft (varies by market and tune)
Horsepower 3 5L V6:
Approx. 192-200 hp (varies by market and tune)
Torque 3 5L V6:
Approx. 215-225 lb-ft (varies by market and tune)
Horsepower 2 5L Crdi:
Approx. 139 hp
Torque 2 5L Crdi:
Approx. 247 lb-ft
Fuel System Type Gasoline:
Electronic Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel System Type Diesel:
Common Rail Direct Injection (CRDi) with Turbocharger
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (Regular), Diesel Fuel
Transmission Standard:
5-speed Manual Transmission (MT)
Transmission Optional:
4-speed Automatic Transmission (AT) with Shiftronic
AWD System:
Electronically controlled multi-plate clutch AWD system with torque-sensing capability.
Gear Ratios:
Specific ratios for manual and automatic transmissions are detailed within the manual.
Atf Type:
Kia Genuine ATF SP-III or equivalent (for automatic transmission).
Mtf Type:
GL-4 gear oil (for manual transmission).
Length:
Approx. 4675 mm (184.1 in)
Width:
Approx. 1890 mm (74.4 in)
Height:
Approx. 1745 mm (68.7 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2710 mm (106.7 in)
Seating Capacity:
5 or 7 passengers (with optional third-row seat)
Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row:
Approx. 12.5 cu ft (variable)
Cargo Volume Behind 2Nd Row:
Approx. 30.4 cu ft (variable)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1900-2100 kg (4189-4630 lbs) depending on configuration.
Towing Capacity:
Up to 3500 lbs (1588 kg) (when properly equipped and depending on market).
NHTSA Rollover Resistance:
4/5 star rating (for 2005 model year, may vary)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Available Traction Control System (TCS)
Esc:
Available Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
Airbags:
Front airbags, available side-impact airbags, available curtain airbags.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters.
Child Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tether Anchors for Children) system.
Infotainment Features:
Base models featured AM/FM stereo with CD player. Higher trims offered premium audio systems, cassette players (early models), and auxiliary inputs.
Driver Assistance Features:
Limited driver assistance features by modern standards. Primarily focused on core safety systems like ABS and optional ESC/TCS.
Connectivity Options:
Available SiriusXM Satellite Radio capability on higher trims. No Bluetooth or USB connectivity standard on this generation.
Oil Change Interval Gasoline:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months (whichever comes first), or 3,750 miles under severe driving conditions.
Oil Change Interval Diesel:
Every 5,000 miles or 6 months (whichever comes first), or 3,000 miles under severe driving conditions.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months (whichever comes first), or more frequently in dusty conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement V6:
Every 100,000 miles (Long Life Spark Plugs)
Engine Oil Viscosity:
0W-20 or 5W-30 for gasoline engines; 5W-40 or 10W-40 for diesel engines (refer to manual for specific engine codes).
Engine Oil Capacity 3 5L V6:
Approx. 5.5 US quarts (5.2 liters) with filter.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant (typically red or orange for Kia).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Engine Mounts:
Premature wear of engine mounts, particularly on V6 models, leading to vibrations.
Rear Main Seal Leak:
Some reports of rear main seal leaks on V6 engines.
Brake Wear:
Front brake pads and rotors can wear relatively quickly due to vehicle weight and typical usage.
Power Window Motors:
Occasional failure of power window regulator motors.
Evaporative Emissions System:
Issues with EVAP system components (e.g., vent solenoid, charcoal canister) can trigger check engine lights.
Brand Heritage:
Kia, a South Korean automotive manufacturer, has a history of producing reliable and value-oriented vehicles since its founding in 1944.
Generation 1:
The 2005 Sorento represents the first generation of the model, launched in 2002. It was designed as a rugged, body-on-frame SUV with a focus on utility and capability.
Production Location:
Primarily manufactured in South Korea.
Production Years:
First Generation: 2002-2009