Segment:
Mid-size Sedan / Family Sedan
Key Competitors:
Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Ford Fusion, Nissan Altima, Chevrolet Malibu
Design Philosophy:
Sleek, aerodynamic design with a focus on European styling cues, often referred to as the 'Design Leader'.
Value Proposition:
Offered a strong balance of style, features, and value for money within its segment.
Powertrain:
Engine, Fuel System, Exhaust System, Transmission (Automatic & Manual), Drivetrain, Transfer Case (if applicable)
Chassis:
Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering, Brakes (Hydraulic & ABS), Wheels & Tires
Electrical:
Body Electrical System, Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Lighting, Instrumentation, Audio System, HVAC Controls, SRS (Airbag) System
Body:
Body & Chassis Exterior, Interior Trim, Doors, Windows, Seats, Roof Panel
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, inspection routines
Repair:
Engine overhaul, transmission repair, suspension component replacement, brake system service, electrical diagnosis and repair, body panel repair
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), circuit diagrams, component testing procedures
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical data, pressure specifications
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical schematics and diagnostic strategies.
Engine 1 Variant:
2.4L GDI I4 PETROL (Theta II GDI)
Engine 1 Displacement:
2359 cc
Engine 1 Horsepower:
Approx. 175-201 hp (depending on market and specific tune)
Engine 1 Torque:
Approx. 169-181 lb-ft (depending on market and specific tune)
Engine 2 Variant:
2.0L GD...
Induction:
Naturally Aspirated (GDI)
Type:
Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI)
Recommended Fuel:
87 Octane Unleaded Gasoline (refer to manual for specific octane requirements by region)
ECU Type:
ECM (Engine Control Module) with integrated diagnostics
Transmission Type:
6-speed Automatic (e.g., A6GF1, H6A)
Transmission Type:
6-speed Manual (less common in some markets)
Automatic Features:
Sequential shifting mode (e.g., 'Sportmatic'), electronic control
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Refer to manual for specific SP-IV or equivalent specification (e.g., Diaqueen ATF SP-IV)
Automatic Transmission Capacity:
Approx. 7.5 - 8.5 liters (check manual for exact fill level)
Length:
Approx. 4840 mm (190.6 in)
Width:
Approx. 1830 mm (72.0 in)
Height:
Approx. 1455 mm (57.3 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2795 mm (110.0 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1480-1580 kg (3263-3483 lbs) depending on configuration
Trunk Volume:
Approx. 450 liters (15.9 cu ft)
NHTSA Front Crash Test:
5-Star (for most configurations)
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
Yes (for some model years and configurations)
Electronic Stability Control:
Standard (ESC/VSM - Vehicle Stability Management)
Anti Lock Braking System:
Standard (ABS)
Brake Assist:
Standard (BAS)
Electronic Brakeforce Distribution:
Standard (EBD)
Airbags:
Front, Side, Curtain Airbags (number varies by trim)
Seatbelts:
Pretensioner and load-limiter seatbelts
System Features:
Available premium audio systems (e.g., Infinity), CD/MP3 player, AM/FM radio, USB/Auxiliary input, Bluetooth connectivity (hands-free and audio streaming). Navigation systems were optional on higher trims.
Features Available:
Rearview camera (on some models), parking sensors, cruise control.
Bluetooth:
Available for hands-free calling and audio streaming.
Oil And Filter Change:
Every 5,000 miles or 6 months (refer to manual for specific recommendation based on driving conditions)
Engine Air Filter:
Every 30,000 miles or 24 months
Cabin Air Filter:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months
Spark Plugs:
Refer to manual (GDI engines may have longer intervals than traditional port-injected engines, potentially 100,000 miles)
Transmission Fluid Change:
Refer to manual for 'severe' or 'normal' service intervals. Typically around 60,000-100,000 miles.
Engine Oil Type:
API SN or ILSAC GF-5 compliant, SAE 0W-20 (check manual for exact viscosity based on temperature)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.8 - 5.0 quarts (4.5 - 4.7 liters) with filter change
Coolant Type:
OAT (Organic Acid Technology) or HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) long-life coolant, ethylene glycol-based, typically a Pink/Red or Orange color. Refer to Kia specification (e.g., P-HOAT).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check manual for exact specification)
Engine Failures:
While GDI engines offer efficiency, some Theta II engines from this era experienced issues such as excessive oil consumption or connecting rod bearing failures, potentially due to manufacturing defects. Refer to any TSBs or recalls related to this.
Transmission Issues:
Some owners have reported occasional rough shifting or delayed engagement in the automatic transmission. Regular fluid changes are crucial.
Electrical Quirks:
Occasional reports of minor electrical gremlins, such as infotainment system glitches or sensor issues, are not uncommon in modern vehicles.
Suspension Wear:
Like many vehicles in this class, suspension components such as struts, bushings, and ball joints can wear over time, leading to noise or handling degradation.
