Vehicle Segment:
Compact Crossover SUV
Key Competitors 2012:
Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Ford Escape, Mazda CX-5, Hyundai Tucson, Nissan Rogue.
Sportage Design Philosophy:
Sporty, dynamic styling, often praised for its European design influence.
Value Proposition:
Offered a good balance of features, performance, and value compared to its segment rivals.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, emission control, cooling system, lubrication system, engine management, exhaust system.
Transmission:
Manual and Automatic Transmission (AT) overhaul, diagnostics, control systems, fluid service.
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) systems, driveshafts, differentials, transfer case (if applicable).
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, steering system, wheel alignment.
Brakes:
Brake system hydraulics, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution), brake pad/rotor replacement, caliper service.
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting system, interior/exterior electrical components, body control module (BCM), infotainment system wiring, diagnostic connector (OBD-II).
Body:
Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, interior trim, glass replacement, sealant application.
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system components, refrigerant service, climate control.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil change, filter replacement, fluid level checks, tire rotation, spark plug replacement, brake inspection.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), fault finding procedures, symptom-based diagnostics.
Repair Procedures:
Component replacement, overhaul procedures, assembly and disassembly instructions for major systems.
Diagnostics:
Scan tool usage, sensor testing, actuator testing, wiring harness continuity checks.
Level Of Detail:
Comprehensive factory-level repair information, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIYers.
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Inline-4
Displacement:
2.4 Liters (2359 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
88.0 mm x 97.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.5:1
Valve Train:
DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft), 16 Valves, Dual CVVT (Continuously Variable Valve Timing)
Horsepower Est:
176 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque Est:
168 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Regular, 87 Octane (Minimum)
ECU Type:
Kia proprietary Engine Control Unit (ECU) with CAN bus communication
Transmission Type Standard:
6-speed Automatic Transmission
Transmission Type Optional:
6-speed Manual Transmission (less common in US market for 2.4L)
AWD Availability:
Available with both Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) and All-Wheel Drive (AWD)
Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:
Kia Genuine ATF SP-IV (or equivalent meeting the specification)
NHTSA Overall Rating Est:
4/5 Stars (for 2012 models)
IIHS Top Safety Pick Status Est:
Likely awarded 'Top Safety Pick' status in many categories for 2012.
Standard Safety Features:
ABS, EBD, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Traction Control System (TCS), Hill Start Assist Control (HAC), Downhill Brake Control (DBC).
Airbag System:
Front dual-stage airbags, front side-impact airbags, side-curtain airbags (front and rear).
Seat Belts:
3-point front and rear seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters.
Infotainment System:
Available with CD/MP3 player, SiriusXM Satellite Radio, USB/Auxiliary input jacks, Bluetooth hands-free calling and audio streaming. Higher trims may feature a touchscreen display.
Available Driver Assistance:
Rearview camera (on some trims), parking assist sensors.
Bluetooth Connectivity:
Standard on most trims for hands-free calling and audio streaming.
Oil And Filter Change:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, using synthetic blend or full synthetic oil.
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 24 months.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 100,000 miles (160,000 km) with iridium-tipped plugs.
Coolant Replacement:
Initial replacement at 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 48 months, then every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 24 months thereafter.
Engine Oil Capacity With Filter:
5.5 US quarts (5.2 liters) - 0W-20 Synthetic Oil recommended.
Coolant Type:
Kia Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant (P/N 00240-00050-01 or equivalent HOAT)
Engine Issues:
Some reports of oil consumption in early 2.4L Theta II engines, potential issues with catalytic converter efficiency, and occasional starter motor failures.
Transmission Issues:
Infrequent reports of hesitation or rough shifting in automatic transmissions, but generally considered reliable.
Electrical Issues:
Minor issues like faulty door lock actuators or interior light failures have been reported.
Suspension Issues:
Potential for worn ball joints or control arm bushings over higher mileage.
Kia Founding:
Founded in 1944, Kia Motors is South Korea's oldest manufacturer of motor vehicles.
Sportage First Generation:
Introduced in 1993, based on the Mazda Bongo platform.
Sportage Third Generation:
The 2012 model belongs to the third generation (SL, 2010-2015), which marked a significant design and engineering overhaul, often credited to Peter Schreyer.
Production Location 2012:
Primary assembly in Gwangmyeong, South Korea, and also in Zilina, Slovakia for European markets.
