Vehicle Segment:
Mid-size Crossover SUV
Target Audience:
Families, individuals seeking versatile utility and comfortable seating
Key Competitors:
Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, Ford Edge, Nissan Murano, Hyundai Santa Fe (pre-redesign)
Selling Points:
Value for money, practical interior space, available third-row seating (though less common in 4-cyl models), strong warranty (historically for KIA)
Manual Advantage:
Provides technicians and DIY enthusiasts with the exact same factory-level information used by authorized KIA service centers.
Region Covered:
North America (likely based on OEM designation and common market)
Estimated Page Count:
Extensive (typical OEM shop manuals for this era exceed 2000 pages)
Manual Type:
OEM Factory Shop Service Repair Manual (FSM)
Accessibility:
Standalone PDF, no internet or software required
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, engine control system (ECM), fuel system, exhaust system, ignition system, cooling system, lubrication system, transmission (automatic), clutch system (if applicable, though typically automatic for this engine/year), transfer case (if applicable)
Chassis:
Brake system (hydraulic, ABS, ESC), steering system, suspension system (front and rear), drive shafts, wheels, tires
Electrical:
Body electrical systems, lighting, instrument cluster, infotainment system, power accessories (windows, locks, mirrors), starter, alternator, battery, wiring diagrams, fuse box locations and functions, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs)
Body:
Body panels, doors, glass, interior trim, bumpers, structural components, HVAC system (heating, ventilation, air conditioning)
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance schedules, fluid checks and changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, belt replacement, brake pad/rotor service
Repair:
Component removal and installation, engine overhaul procedures, transmission overhaul procedures, suspension component replacement, brake caliper and master cylinder replacement, steering rack replacement, electrical component diagnosis and repair
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, diagnostic trouble code (DTC) interpretation and resolution, wiring diagram interpretation
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission disassembly/rebuild, including electrical system diagnostics and bodywork procedures.
Engine Code:
G4KF (2.4L Theta II)
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Inline 4-Cylinder
Displacement:
2359 cc (2.4 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
86.0 mm x 100.1 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.5:1
Horsepower:
175 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque:
169 lb-ft @ 3900 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (MPI - Multi-Port Injection)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Recommended Octane:
87 (Research Octane Number)
Engine Control Module:
ECM controlled, with integrated diagnostics
Cooling Type:
Liquid-cooled
Oil Capacity:
4.8 U.S. quarts (4.5 liters) with filter change
Recommended Oil Viscosity:
SAE 5W-20 (API SN or ILSAC GF-5 compliant)
Transmission Type:
6-speed automatic transmission
Optional Transmission:
Manual transmission not typically offered with the 2.4L engine in this model year and region.
Transmission Features:
Sequential manual mode (Sportmatic), electronic control with adaptive shift logic.
Transmission Fluid Type:
SP-IV (Hyundai/Kia Genuine Automatic Transmission Fluid)
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approximately 7.1 U.S. quarts (6.7 liters) for a dry fill.
Length:
188.8 inches (4795 mm)
Width:
74.2 inches (1885 mm)
Height:
68.7 inches (1745 mm)
Wheelbase:
109.4 inches (2780 mm)
Ground Clearance:
7.2 inches (183 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3,800 - 4,000 lbs (1724 - 1814 kg), depending on drivetrain and trim.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
Approx. 5,500 lbs (2495 kg)
Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row:
9.6 cu ft (272 L)
Cargo Volume Behind 2Nd Row:
39.6 cu ft (1121 L)
Cargo Volume Behind 1St Row:
74.2 cu ft (2101 L)
NHTSA Overall Rating:
Generally 4-star or 5-star (check specific year/configuration for exact ratings, as tested for NHTSA). Known to perform well in IIHS testing for its class.
Electronic Stability Control:
Standard
Anti-Lock Braking System ABS:
Standard
Traction Control System TCS:
Standard
Electronic Brake-Force Distribution Ebf:
Standard (integrated with ABS)
Airbags:
Front dual-stage airbags, front side-impact airbags, full-length side curtain airbags (covering all three rows).
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters for all seating positions.
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system
Infotainment System:
Typically offered with a touchscreen infotainment system, potentially with Bluetooth, USB, and AUX connectivity. Navigation and premium audio options may have been available.
Driver Assistance Features:
Features like backup camera, parking sensors, and cruise control were generally available options.
Connectivity Options:
Bluetooth hands-free calling and audio streaming, USB port for device charging and media playback.
Oil And Filter Change:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions).
Tire Rotation:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months.
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles or 36 months (inspect more frequently).
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 18 months (inspect more frequently).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 105,000 miles (Iridium type).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 60,000 miles (severe driving conditions) or as specified by manual for normal use. It's crucial to follow the manual's specific recommendations.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based, long-life coolant (typically a blue or green color depending on manufacturer specification). Consult manual for exact KIA specification.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (consult manual for definitive specification).
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Likely a specific KIA power steering fluid or an equivalent synthetic fluid. Consult manual.
Common Complaints:
Some reports of Theta II engine oil consumption issues (though more prominent in later model years or other models, always good to monitor). Potential for minor electrical gremlins, HVAC component wear, and brake wear typical for the vehicle class. The manual would detail proper diagnosis and repair for these.
Manufacturer:
KIA Motors Corporation
Generation:
Second Generation (XM) Sorento (2009-2013)
Styling Changes For 2013:
Minor facelift including updated grille, headlights, fog lights, and rear taillights. Interior refinements may have occurred.
Production Location:
Hwaseong, South Korea (Primary)