Vehicle Segment:
Compact Crossover SUV
Target Audience:
Families, individuals seeking versatile and stylish transportation, budget-conscious buyers.
Key Competitors:
Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Nissan Rogue, Ford Escape, Hyundai Tucson, Mitsubishi Outlander.
Design Philosophy:
Kia's 'Tiger Nose' grille, bold styling, practical interior with good passenger and cargo space for its class.
Powertrain Options:
Focus on efficient and reliable 2.4L engine, available FWD and AWD.
Value Proposition:
Empowers owners and independent mechanics with the same technical information used by dealerships for maintenance, diagnostics, and repairs.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, cylinder head, block, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, camshafts, timing systems (belt/chain), lubrication system, cooling system.
Engine Performance:
Fuel injection system (MPI), ignition system, emission control systems (catalytic converter, EVAP), turbocharger (if applicable, though unlikely for 2.4L), engine control module (ECM) operation.
Transmission:
Automatic transmission (e.g., 6-speed), transmission control module (TCM), torque converter, gear shift mechanism, fluid type and capacity, service and repair procedures.
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive (FWD) and All-wheel drive (AWD) systems, front and rear drive axles, differentials, driveshafts, universal joints, wheel bearings.
Suspension:
Front suspension (MacPherson struts), rear suspension (multi-link), shock absorbers, springs, control arms, sway bars, bushings, alignment specifications.
Steering:
Power steering system (hydraulic or electric), steering column, steering rack, tie rods, power steering fluid specifications.
Brakes:
Front and rear disc brakes, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution), brake fluid type and capacity, caliper and rotor specifications, pad replacement, bleeding procedures.
Electrical System:
Battery, alternator, starter motor, wiring diagrams for all systems, fuses and relays, lighting systems, power windows, door locks, mirrors, wipers, horn.
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system, refrigerant type, compressor, condenser, evaporator, blower motor, cabin air filter replacement.
Body And Chassis:
Body panels, doors, hood, tailgate, bumpers, interior trim, glass replacement, chassis structure, welding procedures (if applicable).
Diagnostic Procedures:
On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II) system, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), scan tool usage, troubleshooting common symptoms, electrical circuit testing.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance intervals, oil changes, filter replacements (oil, air, cabin), spark plug replacement, fluid checks and changes (coolant, brake, power steering, transmission), tire rotation.
Repair:
Component removal and installation, rebuild procedures for major assemblies, gasket and seal replacement, component testing, calibration procedures.
Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step diagnostic flowcharts for common drivability issues, electrical faults, and mechanical problems. Identification of root causes and recommended solutions.
Technical Specifications:
Torque specifications for fasteners, engine data, fluid capacities, electrical component resistance values, alignment angles, tire pressures.
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed electrical wiring schematics for all vehicle systems, including power distribution, grounds, sensor signals, and actuator controls.
Depth Level:
Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, in-depth electrical diagnostics, and chassis component repairs.
Length:
174.8 inches (4440 mm)
Width:
72.4 inches (1838 mm)
Height:
65.2 inches (1655 mm)
Wheelbase:
103.9 inches (2640 mm)
Ground Clearance:
7.2 inches (183 mm)
Cargo Volume Behind 2Nd Row:
26.1 cubic feet (739 liters)
Cargo Volume With 2Nd Row Folded:
60.7 cubic feet (1719 liters)
Curb Weight:
3,417 lbs (1,550 kg) for FWD, 3,603 lbs (1,634 kg) for AWD (approx.)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
4,630 lbs (2,100 kg) (approx.)
Towing Capacity:
2,000 lbs (907 kg) (with factory-installed trailer hitch)
NHTSA Front Impact Rating:
4 Stars
NHTSA Side Impact Rating:
5 Stars
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
Yes
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System
Esc:
Standard Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
Traction Control:
Standard Traction Control System (TCS)
Ebs:
Standard Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD)
Airbags:
Front dual-stage airbags, front side-impact airbags, full-length side curtain airbags.
Seatbelts:
3-point active front seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters, 3-point rear seatbelts.
Child Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 24,000 miles (38,000 km) or 24 months.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 12,000 miles (19,000 km) or 12 months.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 100,000 miles (160,000 km) (using iridium-tipped plugs).
Coolant Replacement:
First replacement at 100,000 miles (160,000 km), then every 50,000 miles (80,000 km) or 48 months.
Engine Oil Specification:
API SN/ILSAC GF-5 or higher. Viscosity: SAE 0W-20 (preferred for fuel economy) or SAE 5W-20.
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.8 US quarts (4.5 liters) with filter change.
Brake Fluid Specification:
SAE J1703 or FMVSS No. 116 DOT 3.
Coolant Specification:
Ethylene glycol based coolant (long-life, pink color recommended by Kia).
Common Issues:
Potential for oil consumption in some engines, occasional issues with ABS sensors, HVAC blower motor resistor failures, and minor interior trim rattles.
Recalls:
Refer to NHTSA database for specific recalls pertaining to the 2011 Kia Sportage. Potential recalls may involve brake light switch issues or airbag concerns.
Kia Origin:
Founded in 1944, South Korea's oldest manufacturer of vehicles.
Brand Evolution:
Transitioned from bicycle components to motorcycles, trucks, and eventually passenger cars, gaining global recognition for value and improving quality.
Sportage Generations:
The 2011 Sportage represents the third generation (SL), launched in 2010 globally, marking a significant departure from previous models with a more car-like unibody construction and bolder styling.
Design Influence:
Designed under Peter Schreyer, former Audi designer, introducing Kia's distinctive design language.
Manufacturing Location:
Gwangmyeong, South Korea; also produced in Slovakia and Algeria for various markets.
Production Years:
Third Generation (SL): 2010-2015