Overview and Common Failures
Body and Interior: The paintwork is quite weak, but the body is treated and doesn't rust too quickly. However, corrosion can easily be found on the edges, especially the hood or rear door. The interior is spacious and functional, with pleasing options and good sound insulation. However, the quality of the finishing materials is average, as is their resistance to wear. Among the positives are reliable electrical components and a very powerful climate control system.
Engine: The 2.7-liter gasoline V6 engine G6EA is a simple and durable unit. Its weak points are the flaps in the intake and a tendency to consume oil. American engines, the 3.8 G6DA and 3.5 G6DC, can serve without problems for 300-400 thousand kilometers. The main drawback is high fuel consumption, and with mileage, the oil consumption increases. The 2.9-liter J3 diesel engine suffers from frequent failures of the Delphi fuel system. The 2.2-liter D4HB diesel appeared after the facelift and is much more reliable. However, it is quite demanding in terms of fuel quality and maintenance schedule.
Transmission: The 5-speed manual M5GF2 is quite reliable, but it has a couple of weak points. Synchromeshes often fail at 100,000 kilometers, and the gear lever can become loose. The 5-speed manual M5HF2 and 6-speed manual M6LF1 are only used with diesel engines and are much stronger. Their main problem is the limited lifespan of the clutch and dual-mass flywheel. The 4-speed automatic F4A51 from Mitsubishi is known for its reliability. The 5-speed automatic A5HF1, developed by Hyundai based on its predecessor, strongly dislikes wheel spinning and tends to destroy planetary gear sets. The 6-speed automatics A6LF2 and A6LF3 are considered reliable and trouble-free. Early versions had a defect where the bolts of the central gear would come loose.
Suspension: The suspension is quite strong, and only the shock absorbers and stabilizer bushings are often replaced. However, with regular driving on poor roads, the shock absorbers wear out at around 50,000 kilometers. There are no particular complaints about the steering system or braking system.
