Sportmatic is a function of manual shifting in automatic transmissions installed on Kia cars. It is offered either as a factory-installed equipment or as an option for most current versions. It has been in use since 2001. This function improves the vehicle’s performance compared to a classic automatic transmission.
Operating principle
The Sportmatic function is based on classic automatic transmissions with a torque converter and planetary gear sets. Its firmware allows for manual gear shifting. The control unit receives information about the gear the driver has selected and locks it in a specified range until a certain moment. In order to switch to manual mode, move the gear lever from the “D” position to the left. After this, a corresponding indicator will light up on the selector, warning about engaged manual mode. Move the lever to “+” or “-” to shift gears up or down respectively.
Popular transmissions with the Sportmatic function
| Transmission code | Number of gears | Max torque, N⋅m | Max engine capacity, l | Drive type | Production start | Model applications |
| A5GF1 | 5 | 270 | 2.7 | FWD | 2005 | Forte TD; Carnival VQ; Opirus LD; Carens UN; Magentis MG |
| A5SR2 | 5 | 550 | 5.0 | RWD, AWD | 2007 | Mohave HM; Sorento BL |
| A6LF3 | 6 | 380 | 3.8 | FWD, AWD | 2009 | Sorento UM; Carnival YP; Sorento XM; Carnival VQ |
| A8LF1 | 8 | 350 | 3.5 | FWD, AWD | 2016 | Sorento UM; Carnival YP; Sportage QL; Cadenza YG |
Common malfunctions of transmissions with the Sportmatic function
| Malfunctions | Transmissions |
| The planetary gear sets wear out prematurely due to aggressive driving style. | A5GF1 |
| The solenoids quickly break down. | A5GF1 |
| The input and output speed sensors have a short lifespan. This is mostly caused by transmission overheating. | A5GF1; A6LF3 |
| The hydraulic valve body channels get clogged, causing malfunctions of the transmission. | A5SR2 |
| The differential case splines can get damaged due to regular and continuous wheel spin. | A5SR2 |
| The plastic pan is significantly prone to mechanical damages. | A6LF3 |
| Malfunctions of the transmission are caused by firmware errors. | A8LF1 |
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