Market Position:
Compact SUV/Off-road utility vehicle, positioned as an affordable and capable option for light off-roading and everyday use.
Competitive Analysis:
Competed against vehicles like the Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Isuzu Rodeo, and Mitsubishi Montero Sport in its segment.
Key Features:
Body-on-frame construction, available 4WD, capable off-road suspension, versatile interior, robust engine options.
Systems Covered:
Engine Mechanical, Engine Control System (ECM/ECU), Fuel System, Ignition System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Exhaust System, Drivetrain (4WD System), Transmission (Manual & Automatic), Clutch, Brakes (Hydraulic, ABS), Steering System, Suspension System (Front & Rear), Body & Chassis, Electrical System (Wiring Diagrams, Lighting, Accessories), HVAC System, Safety Systems (Airbags), Diagnostic Procedures, Torque Specifications
Procedures Included:
Routine Maintenance, Scheduled Maintenance, Component Removal & Installation, Diagnostic Troubleshooting Flowcharts, Repair Procedures, Overhaul Procedures, Adjustments, Specifications & Tolerances, Wiring Harness Repair, Body Panel Alignment, Interior Trim Removal/Installation
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive; covers everything from basic fluid changes and inspections to complete engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, and advanced electrical diagnostics.
Primary Engine:
2.0L DOHC 4-cylinder (G4CP)
Engine Options:
Also available with a 2.0L SOHC 4-cylinder and a 2.5L SOHC 4-cylinder engine in some markets.
Horsepower 2.0L DOHc:
Approx. 122 hp @ 5,500 rpm
Torque 2.0L DOHc:
Approx. 135 lb-ft @ 3,500 rpm
Fuel System:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Ignition System:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with Coil-on-Plug (COP) or Coil Pack setup depending on exact engine variant
Bore Stroke 2.0L DOHc:
82.0 mm x 93.5 mm
Compression Ratio 2.0L Dohc
Compression Ratio 2.0L DOHc:
9.6:1
Standard Transmission:
5-speed Manual Transmission
Optional Transmission:
4-speed Automatic Transmission
Drivetrain:
Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) or On-Demand 4-Wheel Drive (4WD)
Transmission Fluid Manual
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil
Transmission Fluid Automatic
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Kia Genuine ATF SP-III or equivalent
Exterior Length:
Approx. 4,215 mm (165.9 in)
Exterior Width:
Approx. 1,730 mm (68.1 in)
Exterior Height:
Approx. 1,660 mm (65.4 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2,650 mm (104.3 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1,500 - 1,700 kg (3,300 - 3,750 lbs) depending on configuration
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5x139.7
Fuel Tank Capacity:
60 Liters (15.9 US gallons)
Ratings:
NHTSA ratings for this period are less standardized than modern tests. Likely received average ratings for its class at the time.
Active Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) - Optional on some trims
Passive Features:
Driver and Passenger Airbags, Three-point Seatbelts with Pretensioners, Crumple Zones
Child Seat Anchors:
ISOFIX/LATCH system not standard; likely utilizes seatbelt methods for child seat installation.
Infotainment:
Basic AM/FM Radio with Cassette Player, optional CD Player. Limited to analog systems.
Driver Assistance:
ABS (optional), basic traction control systems were not common in this generation.
Connectivity:
No modern connectivity features (Bluetooth, USB, smartphone integration).
Service Intervals Oil Change
Service Intervals Oil Change:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Service Intervals Filters
Service Intervals Filters:
Engine Oil Filter: Replace with oil change. Air Filter: Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or annually. Fuel Filter: Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km).
Service Intervals Spark Plugs
Service Intervals Spark Plugs:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) for standard plugs, or as specified for platinum/iridium plugs if fitted.
Fluid Specifications Engine Oil
Fluid Specifications Engine Oil:
API SG or SH, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (check owner's manual for specific viscosity based on climate)
Fluid Specifications Coolant
Fluid Specifications Coolant:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze (50/50 mix with distilled water) for -34°C (-30°F) protection. Kia Genuine Coolant or equivalent.
Fluid Specifications Brake Fluid
Fluid Specifications Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 Hydraulic Brake Fluid
Fluid Capacities Engine Oil
Fluid Capacities Engine Oil:
Approx. 4.0 Liters (4.2 Quarts) with filter change
Fluid Capacities Coolant:
Approx. 6.5 Liters (6.9 Quarts)
Known Issues:
Timing belt replacement is critical (interference engine), potential for oil leaks from valve cover gasket and rear main seal, occasional issues with window regulators, HVAC blower motor failures, and aging rubber suspension components. Early ABS systems can be prone to failure.
Timing Belt Replacement Interval
Timing Belt Replacement Interval:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 4 years.
Brand Heritage:
Kia, founded in 1944, evolved from manufacturing steel tubing and bicycles to becoming South Korea's second-largest automobile manufacturer. Known for offering value-packed vehicles.
Model Evolution:
The 1997 Sportage marked the first generation (KM). It was designed as a compact SUV with a focus on affordability and utility, sharing its chassis and some mechanicals with Mazda and Ford (due to joint ventures at the time).
Production Years:
1993-2002 (First Generation)
Production Locations:
South Korea (Kia's primary manufacturing base)
Sales Figures:
Early Sportage models sold reasonably well globally, establishing Kia's presence in the SUV market.
