Segment:
Compact SUV / Crossover
Target Audience:
DIY enthusiasts, independent repair shops, Kia dealerships
Competitors 2003:
Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Ford Escape, Nissan Xterra, Hyundai Santa Fe
Value Proposition:
Affordable, capable compact SUV with available AWD and a practical interior.
Completeness:
Offers the same detailed information used by factory-trained technicians.
Powertrain:
Engine, Fuel System, Exhaust System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Ignition System
Transmission:
Manual Transmission, Automatic Transmission
Drivetrain:
Driveshafts, Differentials, Transfer Case, AWD System
Suspension:
Front Suspension, Rear Suspension, Shock Absorbers, Springs, Bushings
Steering:
Power Steering System, Steering Column, Rack and Pinion
Brakes:
Brake System, ABS, Brake Pads, Rotors, Lines, Calipers
Electrical:
Battery, Charging System, Starting System, Lighting, Fuses, Relays, Wiring Diagrams
Body:
Exterior Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Tailgate, Bumpers, Interior Trim
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning System
Safety Systems:
Airbags, Seatbelts
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Checks
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Procedures, Symptom-Based Troubleshooting Charts
Repair:
Component Removal and Installation, Major Component Rebuilds
Diagnostics:
On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II), DTC Code Explanations and Solutions
Technical Specifications:
Torque Specifications, Clearances, Measurements
Depth:
Comprehensive: From basic fluid services to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including detailed electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures.
Engine Code:
G4GC (beta II)
Engine Type:
Inline-4 Cylinder, DOHC, 16-Valve
Displacement:
1975 cc (2.0 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
82.0 mm x 93.5 mm
Horsepower:
122-130 PS @ 5500 rpm (depending on market/tuning)
Torque:
179-186 Nm @ 4500 rpm (depending on market/tuning)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Recommended Fuel:
Unleaded Gasoline (Octane Rating 91 or higher recommended)
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 7.5 Liters (with heater)
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.0 Liters (without filter change)
Recommended Oil Viscosity:
SAE 5W-30 (API SJ or higher)
Type:
5-speed Manual Transmission
Type:
4-speed Automatic Transmission
AWD System:
Electronically controlled, on-demand Four-Wheel Drive (4WD) available.
Atf Type:
Kia Genuine ATF SP-III or equivalent
Capacity:
Approx. 7.2 Liters (total)
Length:
4,345 mm (171.1 in)
Width:
1,765 mm (69.5 in)
Height:
1,670 mm (65.7 in) - without roof rails
Wheelbase:
2,630 mm (103.5 in)
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 195 mm (7.7 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1,450 - 1,600 kg (3,197 - 3,527 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 2,100 kg (4,630 lbs)
Cargo Volume Seats Up:
Approx. 660 Liters (23.3 cu ft)
Cargo Volume Seats Down:
Approx. 1,790 Liters (63.2 cu ft)
NHTSA Frontal Driver:
Not explicitly rated by NHTSA for this year in this format; generally considered adequate for its class.
IIHS Side Impact:
Not explicitly rated by IIHS for this year in this format; generally considered adequate for its class.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on most trims.
Traction Control:
Traction Control System (TCS) available on some models, particularly with AWD.
Airbags:
Front driver and passenger airbags standard. Optional side airbags available on some trims.
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts with pretensioners for front occupants, 3-point seatbelts for rear outboard occupants, lap belt for rear center occupant.
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system.
Oil And Filter Change:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months (if equipped).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km).
Coolant Replacement:
First replacement at 60,000 miles (96,000 km), then every 30,000 miles (48,000 km).
Transmission Fluid Change Automatic:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) under normal driving conditions.
Engine Oil:
SAE 5W-30, API SJ or higher
Coolant:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water)
Engine:
Occasional issues with oil leaks (valve cover gasket), ignition coil failures, and carbon buildup in older engines.
Transmission:
Automatic transmission can sometimes exhibit harsh shifting or delayed engagement, often related to fluid contamination or solenoid issues.
Suspension:
Worn bushings and ball joints can lead to noise and handling degradation over time.
Electrical:
Corrosion on grounds or battery terminals, occasional issues with power window regulators and door lock actuators.
Body:
Rust can be a concern in areas with heavy road salt usage, particularly around wheel wells and rocker panels.
Kia Automotive Group:
Hyundai Motor Group.
Brand Focus:
Value-oriented, reliable transportation, expanding global market presence.
First Generation Start:
1997
Second Generation Start:
2004
Generation Covered:
First Generation (1997-2004 worldwide, 2000-2005 in North America)
Manufacturing Locations:
South Korea (Hwaseong), Malaysia (CKD)
Production Years Covered By Manual:
2003 model year vehicles.
Industry Awards:
While the 2003 Sportage itself didn't garner major individual awards, it was part of Kia's push for market share and perceived quality improvements in the early 2000s.
Consumer Reports Reliability:
Varies by model year and specific components, but generally considered average to below average for its class during this era.