Segment:
Mid-size SUV / Crossover SUV
Key Competitors:
Ford Explorer, Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, Nissan Pathfinder, Chevrolet TrailBlazer
Body On Frame:
Unique for its generation in the segment, offering robust capability
Available Engines:
V6 power, providing strong performance for towing and acceleration
Seating Capacity:
Optional 7-seater configuration for increased practicality
Powertrain:
Engine, transmission, drivetrain, exhaust, fuel system
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, wheels, tires, brakes
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, ignition system, charging system, starting system, power accessories, body control modules (BCM)
Body:
Body panels, interior trim, glass, doors, latches, HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning)
Maintenance:
Routine service, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, scheduled maintenance intervals
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation and clearing
Repair:
Component removal and installation, engine repair (rebuilds, head gasket), transmission repair, brake system repair, suspension component replacement
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearance measurements, timing settings, fluid capacities and types
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls. Includes detailed diagnostics and electrical system troubleshooting.
Engine Code:
G6CU (3.5L V6 DOHC)
Engine Displacement:
3.5 Liters (3497 cc)
Engine Configuration:
V6, 24 Valves (DOHC)
Horsepower Peak:
Approx. 200-204 hp @ 5500 rpm (depending on year/market)
Torque Peak:
Approx. 217-220 lb-ft @ 3000-3500 rpm (depending on year/market)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (Regular)
Bore X Stroke:
91.0 mm x 87.7 mm
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based (typically Asian Red or Equivalent)
Oil Capacity With Filter:
Approx. 4.5 US quarts (4.2 Liters)
Transmission Type:
4-speed Automatic Transmission (4-Speed RWD/AWD)
Transmission Type Optional:
5-speed Automatic Transmission (from ~2007 onwards, often with V6 models)
Drive Type:
Available in RWD (Rear-Wheel Drive) and AWD (All-Wheel Drive)
Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:
Kia SPIII or equivalent Dexron III/Mercon
Automatic Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approx. 3.7 US quarts (3.5 Liters) for a drain and fill
Length:
Approx. 188.8 inches (4795 mm)
Width:
Approx. 74.4 inches (1890 mm)
Height:
Approx. 67.7 inches (1720 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 112.4 inches (2855 mm)
Front Track:
Approx. 62.0 inches (1575 mm)
Rear Track:
Approx. 62.2 inches (1580 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 4300-4500 lbs (1950-2040 kg), varies by drivetrain and trim
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvw:
Approx. 5730 lbs (2600 kg)
Towing Capacity:
Up to 5,000 lbs (2268 kg) when properly equipped
Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row:
Approx. 12.4 cu ft (351 L)
Cargo Volume Behind 2Nd Row:
Approx. 40.5 cu ft (1147 L)
Cargo Volume Behind 1St Row:
Approx. 79.6 cu ft (2254 L)
NHTSA Frontal Driver:
4/5 Stars (2003-2005 models)
NHTSA Frontal Passenger:
4/5 Stars (2003-2005 models)
NHTSA Side Impact Front Seat:
5/5 Stars (2003-2005 models)
NHTSA Side Impact Rear Seat:
5/5 Stars (2003-2005 models)
IIHS Front Crash Rating:
Good (2003-2005 models)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System
Traction Control:
Available Traction Control System (TCS)
Electronic Stability Control:
Available Electronic Stability Control (ESC) on later models
Airbags Front:
Standard Dual Front Airbags
Airbags Side:
Available Front Side-Impact Airbags and Roll-Sensing Side Curtain Airbags
Seat Belts:
3-point height-adjustable seat belts with pretensioners
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 to 7,500 miles (8,000 to 12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for specific conditions)
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 to 30,000 miles (24,000 to 48,000 km)
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 to 20,000 miles (24,000 to 32,000 km)
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 60,000 to 100,000 miles (96,000 to 160,000 km), depending on driving conditions
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000 to 100,000 miles (96,000 to 160,000 km) (typically platinum or iridium plugs)
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 8.0 US quarts (7.6 Liters)
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Use Kia genuine power steering fluid or equivalent Dexron III/Mercon ATF
Transfer Case Actuator Failure:
Common issue in AWD models, often due to water intrusion or wear. The manual will detail diagnostic and replacement procedures.
Rear Differential Leaks:
Potential for leaks from rear differential seals. The manual will provide torque specs for seal replacement.
Engine Misfires Due To Ignition Coils:
Ignition coil failure can lead to rough running. The manual will guide on testing and replacement.
Power Window Regulator Failure:
Regulators can wear out. The manual will show disassembly and replacement procedures.
Kia Evolution:
Kia transitioned from producing basic economy vehicles to offering more sophisticated and feature-rich SUVs and cars during the early 2000s, with the Sorento being a key model in this expansion.
First Generation Introduction:
The first-generation Sorento (JC) debuted in 2002 for the 2003 model year in North America. It was Kia's first body-on-frame SUV, leveraging Hyundai's platform.
Mid-Cycle Refresh:
A significant facelift occurred for the 2007 model year, introducing updated styling, revised powertrain options (including a more powerful 3.8L V6 in some markets, though this manual likely focuses on the 3.5L), and improved interior features.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily South Korea
