Segment:
Mid-size Crossover SUV
Target Audience:
Families, individuals seeking versatility, comfort, and capability.
Key Competitors:
Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, Ford Explorer, Nissan Pathfinder, Hyundai Santa Fe.
Design:
Kia's signature 'tiger-nose' grille, bold styling, available third-row seating.
Versatility:
Flexible seating configurations, cargo space, available all-wheel drive (AWD).
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, cooling system, lubrication system, ignition system, emissions control, exhaust system, engine electricals.
Transmission:
Automatic Transmission (6-speed), manual transmission (if applicable), transfer case, differentials.
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (ABS, EBD, ESC), wheels and tires.
Electrical:
Body electrical systems, lighting, instrumentation, power windows, locks, mirrors, audio system, HVAC controls, basic wiring diagrams.
Body:
Body panels, doors, interior trim, glass, seals, body structural components.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, brake pad replacement, belt inspection and replacement.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, fault code interpretation, diagnostic procedures for engine, transmission, ABS, airbag, and other systems.
Repair:
Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, suspension component replacement, brake caliper repair, electrical component repair, body panel repair.
Installation:
Component installation and replacement, accessory installation procedures (where applicable).
Depth:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance to major component overhaul and advanced diagnostics.
Engine Code:
GDI (Gasoline Direct Injection) - Theta II
Displacement:
2.4 Liter (2359 cc)
Configuration:
Inline 4-cylinder
Valvetrain:
DOHC, 16 valves with Dual Continuously Variable Valve Timing (Dual CVVT)
Bore X Stroke:
88.0 mm x 97.0 mm
Horsepower:
175 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque:
169 lb-ft @ 3900 rpm
Injection Type:
Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 Octane Recommended)
Engine Code 2:
Lambda II (MPI - Multi-Point Injection)
Displacement 2:
3.5 Liter (3470 cc) V6
Horsepower 2:
276 hp @ 6300 rpm
Torque 2:
248 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm
Type:
6-Speed Automatic Transmission (A6GF1)
Type Optional:
N/A (6-Speed Automatic was standard for most engines)
Shift Modes:
Manual shift mode (Sportmatic)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Kia Genuine ATF SP-IV or equivalent
Length:
188.7 inches (4795 mm)
Width:
74.2 inches (1885 mm)
Height:
68.1 inches (1730 mm)
Wheelbase:
109.4 inches (2780 mm)
Seating Capacity:
5 or 7 passengers (depending on configuration)
Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row:
9.6 cu ft (272 L)
Cargo Volume Behind 2Nd Row:
30.5 cu ft (864 L)
Cargo Volume Behind 1St Row:
75.5 cu ft (2139 L)
Curb Weight Min:
3,814 lbs (1730 kg) - 2.4L FWD
Curb Weight Max:
4,343 lbs (1970 kg) - 3.5L AWD
Towing Capacity:
Up to 5,000 lbs (2268 kg)
NHTSA Overall Rating:
4 out of 5 stars (for models equipped with specific safety features)
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
Yes (for select models and configurations)
Electronic Stability Control:
Standard
Antilock Braking System:
Standard
Electronic Brake-Force Distribution:
Standard
Airbags:
Front, front-side, and side-curtain airbags (standard); driver knee airbag (available).
Seatbelts:
3-point active front seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters; 3-point seatbelts for all rear seating positions.
Child Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system
System Name:
UVO Entertainment System (available on higher trims)
Features:
Touchscreen display, AM/FM/CD/MP3/SiriusXM, Bluetooth connectivity, USB/Auxiliary inputs, rearview camera.
Available Features:
Back-up warning system, rear-view camera.
Bluetooth:
Standard on most trims for hands-free calling and audio streaming.
Usb Ports:
Available for media playback and device charging.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions).
Air Filter Replacement Interval:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 24 months.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement Interval:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months.
Spark Plug Replacement Interval:
Iridium spark plugs: Every 105,000 miles (168,000 km) for 2.4L GDI; Platinum spark plugs: Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) for 3.5L V6.
Engine Oil Type:
API SN or ILSAC GF-5 certified synthetic 5W-30
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 4.5-4.9 quarts (4.3-4.6 liters) for 2.4L; Approximately 5.5-5.9 quarts (5.2-5.6 liters) for 3.5L V6 (with filter change).
Coolant Type:
Antifreeze/Coolant (Ethylene Glycol) with corrosion inhibitors, meeting Kia specification MS 591-08 (typically a pink or red long-life coolant).
Engine Noise:
Some reports of engine knocking or 'diesel-like' noise, potentially related to GDI fuel injection system operation or carbon buildup.
Transmission Performance:
Occasional reports of rough shifting or hesitation, particularly in earlier models or under specific conditions.
Suspension Wear:
Standard wear and tear on bushings and control arms, especially in higher mileage vehicles or those used in harsh environments.
Brake Wear:
Normal brake pad and rotor wear, with some owners reporting premature rotor warpage depending on driving habits and conditions.
Manufacturer:
Kia Motors Corporation
Generation:
Second Generation (2010-2013)
Design Philosophy:
Shift towards a more refined, European-inspired design with improved dynamics and interior quality.
Manufacturing Locations:
Hwaseong, South Korea; West Point, Georgia, USA (for North American market)
Production Years:
2004-Present
IIHS Award:
KBB.com's 'Most Affordable SUVs and Crossovers' (for some model years/trims).
Kbb Consumer Ratings:
Generally positive consumer reviews for value, practicality, and features.
Epa Fuel Economy Rating 2.4L FWD:
Approx. 21 MPG City / 29 MPG Highway
Epa Fuel Economy Rating 3.5L FWD:
Approx. 17 MPG City / 23 MPG Highway
Epa Fuel Economy Rating 3.5L AWD:
Approx. 16 MPG City / 22 MPG Highway