Competes with vehicles like the Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, Ford Explorer, Hyundai Santa Fe, Nissan Murano.
Key Features
Design Philosophy:
Offered a balance of comfort, utility, and a more car-like driving experience compared to traditional body-on-frame SUVs.
Availability:
Available in front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) configurations, with optional third-row seating for up to seven passengers.
Manual Value Proposition
Manual Benefit:
Provides professional-grade technical information for DIY mechanics and professional technicians, offering significant cost savings over dealership service.
📋 Manual Details
Coverage Areas
Manual Type:
OEM Service and Repair Manual
Language:
English
Format:
PDF
Page Count
Page Count:
Estimated 2000+ pages (typical for comprehensive OEM manuals)
Comprehensive; covers everything from basic fluid checks and filter changes to complete engine and transmission overhauls, advanced electrical diagnostics, and body repair.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
File Format Type:
PDF
File Compatibility:
Compatible with all Windows versions, Linux, and macOS.
Searchability:
Searchable text content for quick information retrieval.
6-Speed Manual (Market dependent, less common for 2012 Sorento)
Fluid Specifications
Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:
Kia Genuine ATF SP-IV (or equivalent meeting specification)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior Dimensions
Length:
188.5 inches (4788 mm)
Width:
74.4 inches (1890 mm)
Height:
66.7 inches (1694 mm)
Wheelbase:
108.7 inches (2761 mm)
Weights
Curb Weight Minimum:
Approx. 3,840 lbs (1742 kg) for FWD 4-cylinder
Curb Weight Maximum:
Approx. 4,220 lbs (1914 kg) for AWD V6
Cargo Dimensions
Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row:
Approx. 9.6 cubic feet (272 liters)
Cargo Volume Behind 2Nd Row:
Approx. 30.0 cubic feet (850 liters)
Cargo Volume Behind 1St Row:
Approx. 72.5 cubic feet (2053 liters)
Wheel And Tire
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5 x 114.3 mm (5 x 4.5 inches)
Tire Size Standard:
P235/65R17
Tire Size Optional:
P235/55R18, P235/45R19
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Rollover Rating AWD:
4 out of 5 stars (2012 Model)
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
Yes (for models with specific equipment, check manual for details)
Active Features
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System
Ebd:
Standard Electronic Brake-force Distribution
Esc:
Standard Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
Traction Control:
Standard Traction Control System (TCS)
Passive Features
Airbags Front:
Dual front advanced airbags
Airbags Side:
Dual front seat-mounted side-impact airbags
Airbags Rollover:
Full-length side curtain airbags (first and second rows)
Seat Belts:
3-point seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters for all seating positions.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Infotainment System:
Optional touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, Bluetooth, and rearview camera.
Audio System:
Standard AM/FM/CD/MP3 player with SiriusXM Satellite Radio capability, auxiliary input jack, and USB port.
Driver Assistance
Driver Assistance Features:
Available rearview camera, parking assist sensors (rear).
Connectivity
Bluetooth Connectivity:
Available Bluetooth hands-free phone system and audio streaming.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals General
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (using synthetic oil)
Tire Rotation:
Every 7,500 miles
Engine Air Filter:
Replace every 30,000 miles or as needed based on conditions.
Cabin Air Filter:
Replace every 15,000 miles or annually.
Coolant Flush:
First flush at 105,000 miles, then every 52,500 miles thereafter.
Transmission Fluid Service:
Check every 30,000 miles. Replace at 105,000 miles and then every 52,500 miles for severe duty, or as per manual recommendations for normal duty.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 (Synthetic recommended)
Engine Oil Capacity 2.4L:
Approx. 4.5 quarts (4.3 liters)
Engine Oil Capacity 3.5L:
Approx. 6.0 quarts (5.7 liters)
Coolant Type:
Asian Red Long Life Coolant (or equivalent meeting MS-591-08 specification)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3
Known Issues
Engine Issues:
Some reports of oil consumption in certain 2.4L engines, potential for carbon buildup in GDI engines requiring occasional cleaning.
Transmission Issues:
Occasional reports of rough shifting or hesitation; maintaining proper fluid levels and quality is crucial.
Electrical Issues:
Infrequent reports of minor electrical gremlins, often related to sensors or body control modules.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Kia History:
Kia Motors Corporation is a South Korean automobile manufacturer, founded in 1944, known for producing a wide range of vehicles from compact cars to SUVs and commercial vehicles.
Model Evolution
Sorento Generation 2:
The 2012 Sorento belongs to the second generation (XM), introduced in late 2009 for the 2010 model year. This generation marked a significant shift from the Sorento's truck-based, body-on-frame roots to a unibody construction, offering improved ride comfort, handling, and fuel efficiency.
Production
Manufacturing Location:
Hwaseong, South Korea (Primary)
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Safety Awards:
Recipient of various safety accolades from organizations like IIHS and NHTSA for its generation.
Value Recognition:
Often praised for its value proposition, offering a good blend of features, space, and capability for its price point.