Refer to manual for specific ratios (e.g., 3.750 / 2.059 / 1.323 / 0.974 / 0.793)
Optional
Optional Transmission Type:
4-speed Automatic with Overdrive
Automatic Transmission Model:
F4A42 (Hyundai/Kia joint venture)
Features
Drivetrain Options:
Available in Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) and All-Wheel Drive (AWD) configurations for both transmissions
AWD System:
Electronically controlled, on-demand system with viscous coupling
Fluid Specifications
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-85 or 75W-90 gear oil (verify specific fill level and capacity in manual)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
SP-III ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid) (verify specific fill level and capacity in manual)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
170.1 inches (4320 mm)
Width:
70.1 inches (1780 mm)
Height:
65.2 inches (1655 mm)
Wheelbase:
103.0 inches (2615 mm)
Ground Clearance:
approx. 7.7 inches (195 mm)
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5x114.3 mm (5x4.5 inch)
Standard Tire Size:
235/60R16 (2.0L) or 235/55R18 (2.7L, optional/higher trims)
Weights
Curb Weight:
3350 - 3600 lbs (approx., depending on drivetrain and engine)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
Refer to VIN sticker on vehicle
Towing Capacity:
1000 lbs (unbraked, check local regulations and manual for specifics)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Front Crash Test:
4-star (driver), 4-star (passenger) - Refer to specific NHTSA data for 2008 Sportage
IIHS Side Impact Test:
Acceptable (refer to specific IIHS data for 2008 Sportage)
Active Features
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (standard)
Ebd:
Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (standard)
Traction Control:
Available on some AWD models
Passive Features
Airbags:
Front driver and passenger airbags, front side-impact airbags (optional/standard on higher trims)
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts with pretensioners for front occupants
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
AM/FM/CD player, optional MP3 capability, auxiliary input jack (common)
Speakers:
4-6 speaker systems depending on trim level.
Climate Control:
Manual climate control standard, automatic climate control available on higher trims.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard on most trims
Keyless Entry:
Available on higher trims
Connectivity
Auxiliary Audio Input:
Commonly found for connecting external audio devices.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions). Refer to manual for severe conditions.
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months. Inspect every 7,500 miles.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months. Inspect every 7,500 miles.
Spark Plug Replacement 2.0L:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) (refer to manual for specific plug type)
Spark Plug Replacement 2.7L:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) (refer to manual for specific plug type)
Transmission Fluid Change Auto:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 48 months (severe conditions), longer for normal. Verify with manual.
Coolant Flush:
Initial flush at 100,000 miles (160,000 km), then every 50,000 miles (80,000 km) thereafter. Refer to manual.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Capacity 2.0L:
Approx. 4.5 quarts (4.3 liters) with filter change (check dipstick)
Engine Oil Capacity 2.7L:
Approx. 4.8 quarts (4.5 liters) with filter change (check dipstick)
Engine Oil Type:
API SM, SAE 5W-20 or 5W-30 (verify specific viscosity for climate and engine)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant (Asian Red/Pink OAT type, verify specific Kia specification)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (verify specific requirement)
Power Steering Fluid Type:
ATF Dexron III or equivalent (verify specific requirement)
Known Issues
Common Problems Engine:
Oil leaks from valve cover gaskets, potential for catalytic converter issues, timing belt inspection (if applicable to specific engine variant, though Theta II is chain-driven)
Common Problems Transmission:
Occasional rough shifting in automatic transmissions, wear in manual clutch components.
Common Problems Suspension:
Worn sway bar links, strut mounts, and ball joints can lead to knocking or rattling noises.
Common Problems Electrical:
Window regulator failures, power lock actuator issues, sometimes HVAC blower resistor faults.
Common Problems Brakes:
Brake pad and rotor wear, occasional ABS sensor faults.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Manufacturer Origin:
South Korea
Brand Reputation:
Known for offering value-oriented vehicles, progressively improving quality and design.
Model Evolution
Generation:
Second Generation (2005-2010)
Platform Sharing:
Shared platform and powertrain components with the Hyundai Tucson of the same era.
Production
Production Years:
2005-2010
Manufacturing Location:
South Korea (primarily)
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Safety Awards:
Awarded 4-star frontal crash test ratings from NHTSA, contributing to its perceived safety for the time.
Ratings
Konsumen Reports Reliability:
Varied reliability ratings depending on the year and specific components; manual provides insight for proactive maintenance.
Choosing a selection results in a full page refresh.