Segment:
Compact Sedan/Hatchback
Key Competitors:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Mazda3, Hyundai Elantra, Ford Focus
Value Proposition:
Affordable, well-equipped, stylish compact car with good fuel economy and warranty.
Powertrain:
Engine (mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel, exhaust), Transmission (manual & automatic), Drivetrain (FWD)
Chassis:
Suspension (front & rear), Steering, Brakes (hydraulic, ABS), Wheels & Tires
Electrical:
Charging System, Starting System, Ignition System, Lighting, Instrumentation, Power Accessories, HVAC Control, Body Control Modules (BCM), Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Antitheft Systems
Body And Interior:
Exterior Body Panels, Interior Trim, Seats, Restraint Systems (Airbags), Glass, Doors, Locks, Wiper/Washer System
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid checks and changes, filter replacements, spark plug service
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures, fault code interpretation, symptom-based troubleshooting charts
Repair And Overhaul:
Component removal, installation, disassembly, reassembly, and calibration
Technical Data:
Torque specifications, clearances, tolerances, electrical schematics, diagnostic pinouts
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Advanced diagnostics including PCM/ECM strategies, sensor data interpretation, and actuator testing
Rebuild Scope:
Complete engine and transmission overhaul procedures
Engine Code:
G4FC (1.6L Gamma)
Engine Type:
Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve
Displacement:
1591 cc (1.6 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
77.0 mm x 85.4 mm
Horsepower:
Approx. 130-138 hp @ 6300 rpm (market dependent)
Torque:
Approx. 119-123 lb-ft @ 4850 rpm (market dependent)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 Octane Recommended)
Engine Control Unit:
ECM/PCM (specific part numbers vary by region)
Transmission Type:
6-Speed Manual Transaxle
Transmission Type:
6-Speed Automatic Transaxle
Automatic Features:
Driver-selectable modes, Shiftronic (manual shifting capability)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Kia Genuine ATF SP-IV (or equivalent)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-85 gear oil
IIHS Ratings:
Good in most categories (check specific year/trim for detailed ratings)
NHTSA Ratings:
Typically 4-star or 5-star overall rating (check specific year/trim)
Esc:
Electronic Stability Control (Standard)
Traction Control:
Standard
Airbags:
Front, side-impact, and curtain airbags (standard on most trims)
Seatbelts:
3-point ELR seatbelts with pretensioners
Child Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system
Infotainment System:
UVO Infotainment System (available on higher trims)
Screen Sizes:
Typically 4.3-inch or 7-inch touchscreen
Audio Features:
AM/FM/CD/MP3, SiriusXM Satellite Radio, Bluetooth connectivity
Camera Options:
Optional rearview camera
Parking Sensors:
Optional rear parking sensors
Connectivity Options:
USB port, Auxiliary input jack, Bluetooth hands-free calling
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 12 months (whichever comes first) using synthetic oil
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 100,000 miles (Iridium type)
Coolant Replacement:
Initial: 10 years or 100,000 miles. Subsequent: Every 5 years or 50,000 miles
Engine Oil Spec:
SAE 0W-20 Synthetic
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.2 Liters (4.4 US Quarts) with filter change
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol Antifreeze (Long Life Pink)
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Engine Noise:
Some reports of piston slap or valve train noise on early models, often related to oil quality or viscosity.
Transmission Hesitation:
Occasional reports of automatic transmission hesitation or rough shifting, potentially due to software updates or transmission fluid service.
Electrical Quirks:
Minor electrical issues such as intermittent infotainment screen issues or sensor faults have been reported.
Suspension Wear:
Like many compacts, front suspension components (struts, bushings) may require replacement with higher mileage.
Kbb Value Awards:
Often recognized for strong resale value in its segment by Kelley Blue Book.
Consumer Reports Ratings:
Generally receives average to above-average reliability ratings from Consumer Reports.
Safety Certifications:
Meets all relevant FMVSS (Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards)
