Segment:
Subcompact/Economy car
Target Audience:
Budget-conscious buyers seeking reliable transportation
Key Competitors:
Hyundai Accent, Ford Fiesta, Chevrolet Aveo, Toyota Yaris (Vitz)
Vehicle Appeal:
Affordability, fuel efficiency, maneuverability in urban environments
Engine Mechanics:
Engine overhaul, internal components, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel system, exhaust system, emission control systems
Transmission:
Manual and automatic transmission repair, clutch system, driveline, axles, driveshafts
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, ABS (if equipped), disc and drum brake repair, parking brake
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension components, steering gear, power steering system, alignment specifications
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system, ignition system, starting system, lighting, instrumentation, body electronics, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams
Body Chassis:
Body panel repair, doors, windows, interior trim, frame and chassis components, rust prevention and repair
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance intervals, fluid checks and changes, filter replacements, belt inspections and replacements, spark plug replacement
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common symptoms, fault code interpretation, electrical system diagnostics
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step repair instructions for all major vehicle systems, component removal and installation
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical specifications, diagnostic parameter values
Depth Level:
Comprehensive: from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostics
Engine Type 1:
1.5L (G4EC) Inline-4 SOHC
Bore Stroke 1:
71.5 mm x 78.0 mm
Compression Ratio 1:
9.3:1
Horsepower 1:
95-100 PS (approx. 94-99 bhp) @ 5500-6000 rpm
Torque 1:
13.5-13.8 kgm (approx. 98-100 lb-ft) @ 3000-3200 rpm
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Ignition System:
Electronic Ignition (Distributorless Ignition System - DIS on later models)
Engine Type 2:
1.6L (G4ED) Inline-4 DOHC (Later models/specific markets)
Horsepower 2:
105-110 PS (approx. 103-108 bhp) @ 6000 rpm
Transmission Type 1:
5-speed Manual
Transmission Type 2:
4-speed Automatic (with lock-up torque converter)
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically actuated, dry single plate
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron-III compatible (e.g., SP-III or equivalent)
Length Hatchback:
3825 mm (150.6 in)
Length Sedan:
4115 mm (162.0 in)
Height:
1405 mm (55.3 in)
Wheelbase:
2440 mm (96.1 in)
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 150-160 mm (5.9-6.3 in)
Curb Weight Manual:
Approx. 980-1050 kg (2160-2315 lbs)
Curb Weight Automatic:
Approx. 1000-1070 kg (2205-2360 lbs)
Cargo Volume Hatchback:
Approx. 275-300 liters (9.7-10.6 cu ft)
Cargo Volume Sedan:
Approx. 380-400 liters (13.4-14.1 cu ft)
Wheel Size Standard:
14-inch steel wheels
Tire Size Standard:
175/70 R14
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
4x100 mm
Wheel Offset:
ET35-ET45 (typical)
NHTSA Ratings:
Generally varied; specific ratings may not be readily available or consistent across all model years/trims and regions. Early economy cars often had lower ratings compared to modern standards.
ABS:
Optional on some trims/models, standard on later models in certain markets.
E Brake:
Mechanical handbrake
Airbags:
Driver and passenger airbags (standard on most models)
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seatbelts, pretensioners for front seats
Child Anchors:
LATCH/ISOFIX compatibility (depending on market and specific vehicle build)
Head Unit:
Basic AM/FM radio with CD player (optional Cassette player in early models), typically 2 or 4 speakers. Aftermarket upgrades common.
Climate Control:
Manual air conditioning and heating systems, blower motor speed control, temperature adjustment.
Cruise Control:
Optional on higher trim levels, typically not available on base models.
Auxiliary Input:
Not typically equipped; aftermarket solutions available.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 45,000 miles (72,000 km) for standard plugs, 60,000 miles (96,000 km) for iridium plugs (if equipped)
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 24 months
Transmission Fluid Change:
Manual: Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km); Automatic: Every 45,000 miles (72,000 km) or based on driving conditions.
Engine Oil Type:
API SJ/SL, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check owner's manual for specific climate recommendations)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 3.7 liters (3.9 US quarts) with filter change
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based coolant, OAT (Organic Acid Technology) or HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology), typically red or orange
Power Steering Fluid:
Dexron-III compatible ATF (check owner's manual)
Engine:
Occasional reports of ignition coil failure, minor oil leaks from valve cover or oil pan gasket, potential for early catalytic converter failure in high-mileage vehicles.
Transmission:
Manual transmissions generally robust; automatic transmissions can occasionally exhibit slipping or delayed shifting if fluid is neglected.
Suspension:
Worn control arm bushings, strut mounts, and ball joints are common wear items, especially in areas with poor road conditions.
Electrical:
Corrosion on ground points, alternator issues, and occasional failure of door lock actuators or power window regulators.
Body Chassis:
Rust formation on wheel arches, rocker panels, and around the rear hatch/trunk opening, particularly in rust-belt regions.
Manufacturer:
Kia Motors Corporation, South Korea
Generation:
First Generation (TB)
Design Origin:
Designed primarily in Europe, with significant input from Kia's research and development centers.
Production Start:
1997 (South Korea), 2000 (Global introduction/market launch)
Assembly Locations:
South Korea (Hwaseong), Vietnam, Malaysia, potentially others depending on market
Jdp Power Initial Quality:
J.D. Power and Associates Initial Quality Study ratings for this generation were generally average to below average compared to segment leaders, reflecting its entry-level market positioning.
Consumer Reports Reliability:
Consumer Reports reliability scores varied by model year and specific component, with some years showing better reliability than others. Common feedback points to typical economy car wear items.
Emissions Compliance:
Meets EPA emissions standards for the respective model years in its primary markets (e.g., California LEV or similar standards).
