Target Audience:
Budget-conscious SUV buyers, families, individuals seeking versatility
Key Competitors:
Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Ford Escape, Nissan Xterra, Hyundai Tucson
Value Proposition:
Affordable pricing, strong warranty (at time of release), practical interior, availability of AWD
Engine Options:
Choice between fuel-efficient 2.0L and more powerful 2.7L V6
Drivetrain Options:
Available AWD system for enhanced traction
Interior Practicality:
Foldable rear seats for increased cargo space, comfortable seating for up to five
Engines Covered:
2.0L (1998cc) DOHC Inline-4, 2.7L (2656cc) DOHC V6
Transmission Types:
5-Speed Manual, 4-Speed Automatic
Drive Types:
Front-Wheel Drive (FWD), All-Wheel Drive (AWD)
Factory Service Manual:
Estimated 1500+ pages (comprehensive)
Electronic Troubleshooting Manual:
Estimated 500+ pages (focused on diagnostics)
Primary Manual:
Factory Service Repair Manual
Secondary Manual:
Electronic Troubleshooting Manual (ETM)
Format:
Digital (PDF likely, searchable)
File Format:
Likely PDF with bookmarking and search functionality
Print Quality:
High resolution for clear diagrams and text
Binding Type:
N/A (Digital Format)
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital Format)
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, engine management (ECM/PCM), fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, lubrication system, cooling system
Transmission:
Manual transmission (clutch, gearbox), Automatic transmission (ATF, valve body, torque converter, electronic controls)
Drivetrain:
Front axle, rear axle, transfer case (for AWD), driveshafts, CV joints, differentials
Chassis:
Suspension (front struts, rear multi-link), steering system (power steering pump, rack and pinion), braking system (ABS, EBD, brake lines, calipers, rotors), wheels and tires
Electrical:
Battery, starting system, charging system, lighting system, interior/exterior lighting, power windows/locks, mirrors, wipers, horn, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams
Body:
Body panels, doors, glass, interior trim, seats, exterior trim, bumpers, body sealing
HVAC:
Air conditioning, heating system, ventilation, climate control (manual and automatic)
Safety Systems:
Airbag system (SRS), seat belts
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance intervals, fluid changes (oil, coolant, brake fluid, ATF), filter replacements, spark plug replacement, belt inspections/replacement
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides based on symptoms, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation, scan tool procedures, component testing
Repair:
Step-by-step repair procedures for all major components, component removal and installation, sub-assembly repair, torque specifications for critical fasteners
Specifications:
Tightening torques, fluid capacities and types, electrical specifications, performance data, engine compression test specs
Wiring:
Detailed electrical wiring diagrams for all systems, connector pinouts, circuit descriptions
Depth:
Comprehensive (covers everything from basic maintenance to major component overhauls and electrical diagnostics)
Diagnostic Focus:
Advanced, with specific diagnostic trees and troubleshooting flowcharts for electrical and mechanical issues
Length:
170.0 inches (4315 mm)
Width:
70.1 inches (1780 mm)
Height:
64.8 inches (1645 mm)
Wheelbase:
103.1 inches (2619 mm)
Passenger Volume:
Approx. 96.8 cu ft (2741 L)
Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seat:
Approx. 23.7 cu ft (671 L)
Cargo Volume With Rear Seat Folded:
Approx. 66.5 cu ft (1883 L)
Curb Weight 2.0L FWD Manual:
Approx. 3373 lbs (1530 kg)
Curb Weight 2.7L AWD Auto:
Approx. 3726 lbs (1690 kg)
NHTSA Front Crash Test Driver:
5 Stars (for models with side airbags)
NHTSA Front Crash Test Passenger:
5 Stars (for models with side airbags)
NHTSA Side Impact Front Seat:
5 Stars
NHTSA Side Impact Rear Seat:
5 Stars
IIHS Front Offset Crash Test:
Good (for models with side airbags)
IIHS Side Impact Crash Test:
Good (for models with side airbags)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System
Ebd:
Standard Electronic Brake-force Distribution
Traction Control:
Available Traction Control System (TCS)
Airbags:
Standard front airbags, Optional front-seat side airbags and side-curtain airbags
Seatbelts:
Front pretensioner seatbelts
Engine Oil And Filter:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first. Check manual for specific conditions.
Engine Coolant:
First replacement at 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 4 years, then every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2 years.
Transmission Fluid Auto:
Inspect every 30,000 miles (48,000 km), replace if necessary based on condition. Kia recommended interval often 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 4 years.
Spark Plugs 2.0L:
Iridium type: 105,000 miles (168,000 km)
Spark Plugs 2.7L:
Iridium type: 105,000 miles (168,000 km)
Engine Oil 2.0L:
API SM or higher, SAE 5W-20 (preferred) or SAE 5W-30. Capacity: Approx. 4.4 US quarts (4.2 L) with filter.
Engine Oil 2.7L:
API SM or higher, SAE 5W-20 (preferred) or SAE 5W-30. Capacity: Approx. 4.5 US quarts (4.3 L) with filter.
Engine Coolant:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant, Kia genuine or equivalent (long-life pink/red).
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Kia Genuine ATF SP-III or equivalent (e.g., Dexron III H compliant with SP-III characteristics). Capacity: Approx. 7.6 US quarts (7.2 L) for change/fill.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
GL-4, SAE 75W-90. Capacity: Approx. 2.1 US quarts (2.0 L).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF Dexron III or Kia Genuine Power Steering Fluid.
Engine Oil Consumption:
Some reports of increased oil consumption on higher mileage 2.7L V6 engines, potentially related to piston rings or valve stem seals.
Automatic Transmission Shifting:
Occasional reports of harsh shifting or delayed engagement on the 4-speed automatic, often improved by fluid service or software update if available.
Cv Joint Boots:
Wear and tear on CV joint boots can lead to failure if not addressed promptly.
Suspension Components:
Squeaks or rattles from front struts or rear suspension components can occur with age and mileage.
Cabin Air Filter:
Location behind glove box can be tricky to access for DIY replacement, but essential for HVAC performance.
Kia Automotive History:
Kia Motors Corporation, founded in 1944, initially produced steel tubing and bicycle parts, later moving into motorcycle and automotive manufacturing. Known for offering value-oriented vehicles.
Sportage Generation 1:
First generation (1993–2002), based on Mazda Bongo/Ford Econovan platform, body-on-frame construction. Not sold in all markets.
Sportage Generation 2:
Second generation (2005–2010), this model. Unibody construction, developed with Hyundai. Shared platform with Hyundai Tucson (first generation).
Production Years:
2004-2010 (Second Generation)
Manufacturing Locations:
South Korea (Gwangmyeong), Malaysia (Ahmad & Hussein Sdn Bhd)
IIHS Top Safety Pick Potential:
Achieved 'Good' ratings in IIHS frontal and side impact tests for models equipped with side airbags, indicating strong safety performance for its class and era.
NHTSA Safety Ratings Overall:
Achieved 5-star ratings in NHTSA frontal and side impact tests for models equipped with side airbags, underscoring its safety credentials.
Value For Money:
Consistently recognized for its competitive pricing and feature set compared to rivals at its introduction.