Sportmatic is a manual shifting function in automatic transmissions installed on Kia vehicles. It is offered either as factory-installed equipment or as an option for most current versions. It has been used since 2001. This function enhances vehicle performance compared to a conventional automatic transmission.
OPERATING PRINCIPLE
The Sportmatic function is based on conventional automatic transmissions with a torque converter and planetary gear sets. Its firmware allows for manual shifting. The control unit receives information about the gear selected by the driver and locks it within a specified range until a certain point. To switch to manual mode, move the gear lever from the “D” position to the left. After that, a corresponding indicator will light up on the selector, warning of the engaged manual mode. Move the lever to “+” or “-” to shift 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 | Start of Production | 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 |
| Planetary gear sets wear out prematurely due to aggressive driving style. | A5GF1 |
| Solenoids break down quickly. | A5GF1 |
| Input and output speed sensors have a short lifespan. This is mainly caused by transmission overheating. | A5GF1; A6LF3 |
| Hydraulic valve body channels become clogged, causing transmission malfunctions. | A5SR2 |
| Differential housing splines can be damaged due to regular and continuous wheel slip. | A5SR2 |
| The plastic pan is significantly prone to mechanical damage. | A6LF3 |
| Transmission malfunctions are due to firmware errors. | A8LF1 |