Compact SUV, appealing to budget-conscious buyers seeking practicality, versatility, and reasonable off-road capability.
Competitive Analysis
Competitive Analysis:
Competed against models like the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Ford Escape, and Hyundai Tucson, often offering a strong value proposition with a good feature set for its price point.
Key Features
Key Features:
• Available with both 2.0L and 2.7L V6 engines
• Choice of front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD)
• Practical interior space for its class
• Higher ground clearance than many car-based SUVs
• Electronic Stability Program (ESP) / Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
• Traction Control System (TCS)
• Brake Assist (BA)
Passive Features
Passive Safety Features List:
• Front airbags (driver and passenger)
• Front side-impact airbags
• Side curtain airbags (front and rear)
• Pretensioner seatbelts
• Child seat anchors (LATCH)
• Energy-absorbing steering column
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Infotainment System:
Base models featured a standard AM/FM/CD player with auxiliary input. Higher trims offered an optional Infinity premium audio system, SiriusXM satellite radio, and an in-dash CD changer.
Navigation:
Optional GPS navigation system available on higher trim levels.
Driver Assistance
Driver Assistance Features:
Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and Traction Control were increasingly standard or available across trims for this model year, enhancing stability during adverse driving conditions.
Connectivity
Connectivity Features:
Auxiliary audio input jack. Bluetooth connectivity was not widely available or standard on 2009 models.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Engine Oil Change Interval:
7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first
Air Cleaner Filter Replacement Interval:
15,000 miles (24,000 km)
Engine Coolant Replacement Interval:
30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 24 months for initial, then every 30,000 miles (48,000 km)
Automatic Transmission Fluid Change Interval:
60,000 miles (96,000 km) under normal driving conditions
Timing Belt Replacement Interval:
60,000 miles (96,000 km) for 2.0L engine. V6 uses a timing chain.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Specification:
API SM or higher, ILSAC GF-4 or higher, SAE 5W-20 or 5W-30 (check owner's manual for specific viscosity)
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.5 US quarts (4.3 L) with filter for 2.0L; 4.8 US quarts (4.5 L) with filter for 2.7L V6
Coolant Specification:
Hyundai/Kia Long Life Coolant (Orange) or equivalent G-48 (ethylene glycol based) with deionized water
Automatic Transmission Fluid Specification:
SP-III or SP-IV (check specific vehicle application)
Kia, established in 1944, evolved from a motorcycle manufacturer to South Korea's first integrated motor vehicle maker. Known for its rapid growth and focus on value and design, particularly in the 21st century.
Model Evolution
Model Evolution Summary:
The second-generation Sportage (JE/KM) launched in 2004 globally, succeeding the original body-on-frame model. It adopted a more car-like unibody construction, enhancing ride comfort and fuel efficiency, and was designed in Europe.
Production
Production Years:
2004-2010 (Second Generation)
Manufacturing Locations:
South Korea (Hwaseong), Malaysia, Russia
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Safety Awards 2009:
Achieved good crash test ratings from NHTSA and IIHS, contributing to its appeal as a safe choice in its segment.
Ratings
Consumer Reports Reliability:
Varies by powertrain and specific components, but generally considered average for the era. The manual highlights potential problem areas covered in its troubleshooting sections.
Choosing a selection results in a full page refresh.