Segment:
Compact SUV / Crossover
Value Proposition:
Affordable, rugged SUV offering utility and off-road capability (for its class)
Key Competitors:
Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Ford Escape, Jeep Cherokee (XJ)
Body Styles:
Likely available in 3-door and 5-door configurations
Drivetrain Options:
Available in 2WD (Rear-Wheel Drive) and 4WD (Four-Wheel Drive) with optional low-range gearing
Platform Shared With:
Shared platform with Mazda B-Series pickup and Ford Courier (first generation)
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, disassembly, cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, timing system, lubrication system, cooling system
Engine Electrical:
Ignition system, starting system, charging system, ECU diagnosis and component testing
Fuel System:
Fuel injection system (MPI), fuel pump, fuel filter, fuel lines, injectors, EVAP system
Transmission Manual:
Clutch system, manual transmission assembly, disassembly, gears, bearings, synchronizers
Transmission Automatic:
Automatic transmission (if applicable to specific models covered), hydraulic control, valve body, torque converter, shift control
Drivetrain:
Driveshafts, CV joints, differentials, transfer case (4WD models)
Suspension:
Front suspension (independent), rear suspension (multi-link or solid axle), shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings
Steering:
Power steering system, steering gear, steering column, linkages
Brakes:
Front disc brakes, rear drum or disc brakes, ABS system (if equipped), brake hydraulics, parking brake
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, lighting system, power distribution, fuses, relays, battery, starter, alternator
Body And Interior:
Body panels, doors, latches, glass, seats, trim, HVAC system controls
Heating Ventilation Air Conditioning HVAC:
HVAC system operation, components, refrigerant, diagnosis and repair
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes (oil, coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid), filter replacements, lubrication points
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnosis, DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) interpretation and procedures
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step repair instructions for all major vehicle systems
Overhaul:
Complete engine and transmission overhaul procedures
Installation:
Component removal and installation procedures
Adjustment:
Component adjustments (e.g., valve clearance, clutch pedal, parking brake)
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from routine maintenance to major component rebuilds and electrical diagnostics
Target Audience:
Professional technicians and experienced DIY enthusiasts
Engine Type:
Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC (Dual Overhead Camshaft)
Displacement:
1998 cc (2.0 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
82.0 mm x 93.5 mm
Compression Ratio:
Typical 9.5:1 to 10.0:1 (depending on specific market tune)
Horsepower Gross Hp:
Approximately 126-130 hp @ 5600 rpm (varies by market and emissions regulations)
Torque Lb-Ft:
Approximately 129-133 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm (varies by market)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
ECU Type:
Proprietary Kia ECU, specific model number required for exact identification
Wheelbase:
Approximately 2600 mm (102.4 inches) for 5-door models
Length:
Approximately 4200-4260 mm (165.4-167.7 inches) for 5-door models
Width:
Approximately 1770-1790 mm (69.7-70.5 inches)
Height:
Approximately 1700-1730 mm (66.9-68.1 inches)
Curb Weight:
Approximately 1500-1700 kg (3300-3750 lbs), varies by configuration
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
Typically around 2100-2300 kg (4630-5070 lbs)
Towing Capacity:
Check local regulations and vehicle specifics; typically rated for moderate towing
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM/Cassette player, with optional CD player available on higher trims or later models.
Speaker Configuration:
Typically 4 or 6 speakers
Cruise Control:
Available on higher trim levels
Traction Control:
Generally not available on this generation
Auxiliary Input:
Not standard; aftermarket adapters may be available
Air Conditioning:
Standard or optional depending on trim level
Power Windows Locks:
Optional on lower trims, standard on higher trims
Engine Oil Change:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions); consult manual for severe conditions.
Engine Oil Filter Replacement:
With every oil change
Engine Coolant Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles or 24 months
Transmission Fluid Change Manual:
Check fluid level regularly; replacement interval typically 60,000-100,000 miles or as per manual, depending on usage.
Transmission Fluid Change Automatic:
Every 45,000 miles or 36 months
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically every 60,000-100,000 miles for iridium or platinum plugs, 30,000 miles for standard copper plugs.
Engine Oil Type:
API SJ or higher, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (refer to manual for specific viscosity based on temperature)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 4.5 Liters (4.8 Quarts) with filter change
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Power Steering Fluid:
Dexron II or equivalent ATF
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 gear oil
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron IIE or Dexron III ATF
Engine Seizing:
Potential for engine seizing due to insufficient oil or coolant, especially if maintenance is neglected. Overheating is a common concern.
Timing Belt Failure:
The 2.0 DOHC engine is an interference engine. Timing belt replacement at recommended intervals (typically 60,000 miles) is critical to prevent catastrophic engine damage.
Suspension Wear:
Front suspension bushings, ball joints, and tie rod ends can wear over time, leading to steering looseness and clunking noises.
Cv Joint Failure:
Front CV joints are prone to wear, especially if boots are torn, leading to clicking noises during turns.
Rear Main Seal Leaks:
Common issue for oil leaks from the rear main crankshaft seal.
Radiator And Thermostat Issues:
Radiator can develop leaks, and thermostats can fail, leading to cooling system inefficiencies.
Kia Origins:
Kia Corporation, a South Korean automobile manufacturer founded in 1944, initially producing steel tubing and bicycle parts, later entering automotive manufacturing.
First Generation Launch:
The Kia Sportage (AL) was Kia's first entry into the compact SUV segment, launched globally in 1993, with this manual covering the first generation's production run.
Design Influence:
Based on the Kia Elan sportscar platform, later evolving to share components with Mazda and Ford
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily manufactured in South Korea. Some models may have been assembled in other regions.
Platform Development:
Initially developed on a body-on-frame chassis, transitioning to unibody construction for the second generation.
