Vehicle Segment:
Compact SUV / Crossover
Target Demographic:
Individuals and families seeking a versatile, affordable, and relatively compact SUV.
Key Competitors 2000:
Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Ford Escape, Nissan Xterra, Suzuki Vitara.
Utility:
Offers a blend of car-like handling with SUV utility, including available 4WD and increased cargo space.
Value Proposition:
Positioned as a budget-friendly option in the compact SUV segment, offering a reasonable feature set for its price.
Powertrain:
Engine operation, basic engine maintenance, transmission operation, drivetrain components.
Chassis:
Braking system operation, steering system, suspension system basics, wheel and tire information.
Electrical:
Dashboard indicators, lighting systems, wiper and washer system, audio system operation, basic electrical checks (fuses).
Body And Interior:
Seating and seatbelt adjustments, climate control system, door locks, windows, interior features, exterior features (mirrors, wipers).
Maintenance:
Recommended service intervals, fluid level checks (oil, coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid), tire pressure checks, filter replacement guidance.
Diy Activities:
Basic fluid top-offs, wiper blade replacement, bulb replacement (headlights, taillights, interior lights), checking and replacing fuses.
Safety And Towing:
Towing capacity, trailer wiring information, safe towing practices, child seat installation, general driving safety.
Depth:
Owner-level operation, maintenance, and basic troubleshooting. Does not include detailed diagnostic procedures or component-level repair instructions typical of a service manual.
Engine Type:
Inline 4-cylinder, SOHC
Displacement:
2.0 Liters (1998 cc)
Horsepower Max:
122 hp @ 5,500 RPM (approximate, may vary slightly by market)
Torque Max:
127 lb-ft @ 3,000 RPM (approximate, may vary slightly by market)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Recommended Fuel:
87 Octane (Regular Unleaded)
NHTSA Frontal Driver Rating:
Likely 3 or 4 stars (typical for vehicles of this era, specific data may vary)
NHTSA Frontal Passenger Rating:
Likely 3 or 4 stars (typical for vehicles of this era, specific data may vary)
ABS:
Optional (Available on higher trims or as an option)
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts for all occupants, pretensioners for front seats.
Audio System:
AM/FM stereo with CD player (optional cassette player in some trims) and 4-6 speakers.
Climate Control:
Manual climate control with A/C and heater. Automatic climate control was not common for this model year.
Cruise Control:
Available on higher trim levels.
Auxiliary Input:
Not standard. Aftermarket solutions or FM transmitters would be required for modern device connectivity.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km).
Engine Oil Type:
API SH or higher, SAE 5W-30 recommended for most climates. Refer to manual for specific viscosity recommendations based on temperature.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze/coolant, silicate-free, with corrosion inhibitors. Typically a green or yellow color.
Power Steering Fluid:
Dexron-III (or equivalent ATF compatible with Dexron-III)
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 gear oil.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron-III (or equivalent ATF compatible with Dexron-III)
Common Wear Items:
Front suspension components (bushings, ball joints), rear main crankshaft seal leaks, exhaust system rust, HVAC blower motor failures.
Engine Performance Quirks:
Can be prone to oil consumption if not maintained properly. Some reported issues with engine mounts.
Electrical Quirks:
Occasional reports of power window motor failures, door lock actuator issues.
Manufacturer:
Kia Corporation
First Generation Start:
1997
Generation Name:
First Generation (Sportage JK)
Production Years For Model:
1997-2006 (with significant updates in 2005 for the facelift)
Manufacturing Locations:
South Korea (primarily), also assembled in Ecuador and Egypt.