5-speed Manual Transmission (Less common on 2.7L models)
Features
Automatic Features:
Electronically controlled, overdrive gear
Manual Features:
Close-ratio gearing for sporty feel
Fluid Specifications
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
SP-III ATF (or equivalent DEXRON III/MERCON)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
172.8 inches (4389 mm)
Width:
71.9 inches (1826 mm)
Height:
66.1 inches (1679 mm)
Wheelbase:
103.1 inches (2619 mm)
Ground Clearance:
8.0 inches (203 mm)
Interior
Passenger Volume:
96.0 cu. ft. (approx.)
Cargo
Cargo Volume Rear Seats Up:
27.2 cu. ft. (approx.)
Cargo Volume Rear Seats Folded:
66.3 cu. ft. (approx.)
Weights
Curb Weight FWD:
3,500 lbs (approx.)
Curb Weight AWD:
3,650 lbs (approx.)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
4,785 lbs (approx.)
Towing Capacity:
2000 lbs (approx. with proper equipment)
Wheels And Tires
Wheel Size:
16-inch or 17-inch alloy wheels
Tire Size Std:
P235/70R16
Tire Size Opt:
P235/65R17
Bolt Pattern:
5x114.3 mm (5x4.5 inches)
Center Bore:
67.1 mm
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
5-Star (2005 model year)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
5-Star (2005 model year)
NHTSA Side Impact Front Driver:
5-Star (2005 model year)
NHTSA Side Impact Front Passenger:
5-Star (2005 model year)
NHTSA Side Impact Rear Driver:
5-Star (2005 model year)
NHTSA Side Impact Rear Passenger:
5-Star (2005 model year)
IIHS Frontal Offset:
Good (for models with side airbags)
Active Features
ABS:
Standard (4-wheel disc or front disc/rear drum depending on trim)
Traction Control:
Optional (Electronic Traction Control - ETC)
Electronic Stability Control:
Optional (Electronic Stability Control - ESC)
Passive Features
Airbags Standard:
Front dual-stage airbags
Airbags Optional:
Front side-impact airbags, Side curtain airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts for all seating positions, pretensioners and load limiters for front seats
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Infotainment System:
Basic AM/FM/CD audio system with 4 or 6 speakers; optional premium audio system; optional satellite radio capability
Display:
Digital clock, radio display; limited trip computer functions
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard on most trims
Rear Parking Sensors:
Optional on higher trims
Connectivity
Auxiliary Input:
Not typically standard; may be added aftermarket
Bluetooth:
Not available from factory for this model year
Comfort Features
Climate Control:
Manual or automatic climate control depending on trim
Seats:
Cloth or leather-trimmed seating; heated front seats optional; 6-way adjustable driver's seat
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions)
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 105,000 miles (Iridium type)
Timing Belt Replacement:
This V6 engine utilizes a timing chain, not a belt. Requires periodic inspection, but no scheduled replacement interval.
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles or 24 months
Transmission Fluid Change Auto:
Every 60,000 miles (under normal driving)
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 30,000 miles or 24 months
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Viscosity:
SAE 5W-30
Engine Oil Spec:
API SN or higher, ILSAC GF-5
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant (Asian Red/Pink)
Power Steering Fluid:
Power steering fluid (refer to manual for specific type, usually ATF compatible)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Known Issues
Common Issues Engine:
Occasional oil leaks from valve cover gaskets or oil pan; potential for intake manifold runner issues on some V6s; ignition coil failure
Common Issues Transmission:
Slight hesitation or rough shifting in older automatic transmissions; potential for transmission fluid leaks
Common Issues Suspension:
Worn front control arm bushings; premature failure of front struts/shocks; noisy sway bar links
Common Issues Electrical:
Faulty window regulators; issues with heated seat switches; check engine light due to O2 sensor failures or EVAP system leaks
Common Issues Body:
Rust on rear quarter panels or rocker panels; interior trim creaks and rattles
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Kia History:
Kia Motors Corporation, founded in 1944, is a South Korean automobile manufacturer. It is the second-largest automobile manufacturer in South Korea and part of the Hyundai Motor Group.
Model Evolution
Sportage First Gen:
The first-generation Sportage (NB-7) was introduced in 1993 and was built on a Kia-derived chassis (similar to Mazda Bongo Friendee). It was a body-on-frame SUV.
Sportage Second Gen:
The second generation (JE/KM) Sportage, launched in 2004 for the 2005 model year, marked a significant shift with a unibody construction based on the Hyundai Elantra XD platform. This generation offered a more car-like ride and improved comfort.
Sportage 2005 Update:
The 2005 model year introduced the new platform, with the 2.7L V6 engine becoming a key option for enhanced performance.
Production
Production Location:
Gwangmyeong, South Korea
Production Years Gen2:
2004-2010
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Safety Awards NHTSA:
Received 5-Star ratings in NHTSA frontal and side-impact crash tests for driver and passengers.
IIHS Awards:
Achieved 'Good' rating in IIHS frontal offset crash tests, particularly for models equipped with side airbags.
Ratings
Consumer Reports Reliability:
Varied reliability ratings; the 2.7L V6 generally considered more robust than earlier 4-cylinder engines, but issues can arise with age.
Certifications
Emisiones Standards:
Meets EPA and CARB emission standards for its model year
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