1500 lbs (680 kg) with trailer brake, 1000 lbs (454 kg) without
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
Not Rated / Acceptable (refer to specific test results)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
Not Rated / Acceptable (refer to specific test results)
IIHS Frontal Offset Score:
Marginal (for early models, testing varied)
Active Features
ABS:
Standard on most trims
Traction Control:
Optional on some trims
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags (standard)
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts with pretensioners for front occupants
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
AM/FM stereo with CD player, optional cassette tape player
Speaker Configuration:
4 or 6 speaker systems
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Available on higher trim levels
Connectivity
Auxiliary Input:
N/A (typically no standard auxiliary input or USB)
Instrumentation
Gauge Cluster:
Analog gauges for speedometer, tachometer, fuel, coolant temperature; warning lights
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval Typical:
Every 3,750 miles (6,000 km) or 3 months
Air Filter Replacement Interval:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months
Spark Plug Replacement Interval 4Cyl:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) (standard spark plugs)
Spark Plug Replacement Interval V6:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) (iridium plugs)
Timing Belt Replacement Interval 4Cyl:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 4 years (critical replacement)
Automatic Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 24 months
Fluid Specifications
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3
Power Steering Fluid Type:
ATF Dexron III or equivalent
Known Issues
Common Issue 1:
Timing belt failure in 2.0L engine if not replaced on schedule (causes severe engine damage)
Common Issue 2:
Rear main crankshaft seal leaks
Common Issue 3:
CV joint wear, especially in AWD models used off-road
Common Issue 4:
EGR valve clogging leading to rough idle or stalling
Common Issue 5:
Power window regulator failure
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Kia Founding:
1944 (originally manufactured bicycle parts and steel tubing)
Kia Automotive Entry:
1962 (motorcycles), 1970s (commercial vehicles)
Model Evolution
First Generation Start:
1997
Second Generation Start:
2005
Sportage 2002 Positioning:
End of the first generation, offering a more rugged, body-on-frame SUV experience compared to car-based crossovers.
Production
Manufacturing Location Korea:
Gwangmyeong, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea
Production Years:
1997-2004 (First Generation)
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Automotive Awards:
Kia Sportage received moderate reviews for its utility and value in its segment, often praised for its optional V6 and AWD capabilities in its early years.