Competitors 2006:
Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, Ford Explorer, Chevrolet TrailBlazer, Nissan Pathfinder
Platform:
KM (Korea Mobility) platform, shared with Hyundai Santa Fe
Powertrain Options:
V6 gasoline engines, AWD option available
Seating Capacity:
Up to 7 passengers (optional third row)
Engine:
All powertrain options, including diagnostics, repair, and overhaul
Transmission:
Automatic and Manual transmissions (if applicable), including diagnostics, repair, and fluid specifications
Drivetrain:
Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) and All-Wheel Drive (AWD) systems, including differentials, driveshafts, and CV joints
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, alignment specifications, and shock absorber/strut replacement
Steering:
Power steering system diagnostics, components, and hydraulic specifications
Brakes:
Hydraulic brake systems, ABS, EBD, brake fluid specifications, pad/rotor replacement, and caliper service
Electrical:
Complete vehicle electrical system, including wiring diagrams, fuse/relay identification, lighting, power accessories, and battery service
Body:
Body panel removal/installation, interior trim, door hardware, glass replacement, and structural repair information
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning system diagnostics, refrigerant handling, and component replacement
Restraint Systems:
Airbag system diagnostics, SRS components, and seatbelt service
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, and lubrication points
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides for common symptoms, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), and diagnostic flowcharts
Repair:
Step-by-step repair procedures for all major vehicle systems and components
Overhaul:
Detailed instructions for complete engine and transmission rebuilds
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical schematics for all circuits
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, and alignment data
Special Tools:
Identification of specific tools required for certain repair procedures
Depth:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance to complex engine and transmission overhauls, including diagnostics and electrical troubleshooting.
Transmission Type:
4-speed Automatic Transmission
Transmission Type Manual:
5-speed Manual Transmission (less common, primarily in base models)
AWD System:
Electronically controlled All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system with torque sensing
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Kia ATF SP-III or equivalent (refer to manual for exact specification and quantity)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
GL-4 75W-90 or GL-4 70W-85 gear oil (refer to manual for exact specification and quantity)
Length:
Approx. 188.2 inches (4780 mm)
Width:
Approx. 74.4 inches (1890 mm)
Height:
Approx. 67.9 inches (1725 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 110.0 inches (2795 mm)
Curb Weight FWD:
Approx. 4150 lbs (1882 kg)
Curb Weight AWD:
Approx. 4300 lbs (1950 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
Approx. 5800 lbs (2630 kg)
Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row:
Approx. 6.5 cu ft (184 L)
Cargo Volume Behind 2Nd Row:
Approx. 30.3 cu ft (858 L)
Cargo Volume Behind 1St Row:
Approx. 76.4 cu ft (2163 L)
NHTSA Front Impact:
4 Stars (Driver), 5 Stars (Passenger)
NHTSA Side Impact:
5 Stars (Front), 5 Stars (Rear)
IIHS Front Offset Crash Rating:
Good
IIHS Side Impact Crash Rating:
Good
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Traction Control System (TCS) standard on AWD models, optional on FWD
Electronic Stability Control:
Electronic Stability Control (ESC) often available as an option or standard on higher trims
Airbags:
Front airbags, front side-impact airbags, available side curtain airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters
Audio System:
Standard AM/FM/CD audio system, optional Infinity audio system with subwoofer and amplifier, optional in-dash CD changer
Navigation:
Optional factory-installed navigation system (likely a DVD-based system)
Parking Sensors:
Optional rear parking assist sensors
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control
Auxiliary Input:
Likely an auxiliary audio input jack (depending on trim level and audio system)
Headlights:
Halogen multi-reflector headlights, available fog lights
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles (6,000 km) or 3 months, or 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months with synthetic oil, under normal driving conditions. Refer to manual for severe driving conditions.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 24 months
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 90,000 miles (144,000 km) for iridium-tipped plugs
Engine Oil Type:
API Service SJ or SL, SAE 5W-20 or 5W-30 (check owner's manual for exact viscosity based on temperature)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based, phosphate-free, HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) coolant, typically Asian Red or equivalent
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF Dexron III or equivalent (refer to manual)
Common Issues List:
Cracked exhaust manifolds (V6 engine), ABS sensor failures, potential for fuel injector issues, HVAC blower motor failures, transmission shifting concerns in early models.
Kia Heritage:
Kia Motors Corporation, founded in 1944, is a South Korean automotive manufacturer known for producing a wide range of vehicles, including sedans, SUVs, and minivans. Kia has seen significant growth and global expansion over the past few decades, focusing on design, quality, and value.
First Generation Start:
2001
Second Generation Start:
2006
Generation 2 Design:
The 2006 model year marked the introduction of the second generation Sorento, featuring a unibody construction (monocoque) instead of the body-on-frame design of the first generation. This change improved ride comfort, handling, and fuel efficiency.
Manufacturing Location:
Hwasung, South Korea (Primary)
Previous Generation Awards:
The first-generation Sorento received several awards, including being named 'Best SUV' by Edmunds in 2003, suggesting a positive market reception for the model lineage.
Consumer Reports Reliability:
Reliability ratings for the 2006 Sorento can vary; it's crucial to consult specific model year ratings from sources like Consumer Reports for detailed insights. The transition to unibody construction for this generation generally aimed to improve overall quality and refinement.