2006 Kia Spectra Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.56/5 Average
107 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

The base LX sedan has been dropped, and the EX no longer features foglamps or rear disc brakes. On the plus side, all models now come with floor mats and a cabin air filter, while the SX and Spectra5 gain standard cruise control. The optional four-speed automatic transmission has been redesigned this year for greater durability and smoothness (although models with SULEV emissions still use last year's unit).

Pros:
  • Low price, large backseat, comfortable ride, lots of storage and cupholders, standard side curtain airbags, excellent warranty.
Cons:
  • Engine is weak and buzzy at higher rpm, soft handling on EX model.

User Reviews:

Showing 101 through 107 of 107.00
  • I love my new car :-) - 2006 Kia Spectra
    By -

    I needed a safe, reliable, fuel efficient car, and needless to say I got it. I get about 33 mpg, great space for a small looking car. I have a black 06 spectra sx 5 speed stick shift, w/tinted windows, rims, and a spoiler. It looks very sporty. I love my car and would highly recommend it to all

  • 100+K miles later still love this car! - 2006 Kia Spectra
    By -

    I bought my Kia brand new with only 51 miles on it. Ive had no major mechanical problems whatsoever with it. Just keep up with routine maintenance :) I do drive way more than the average person (mostly from road trips of 300+ miles round trip), thus my poor baby has 114,400 miles (and counting) - and yet no break downs to date. Several of my friends have driven my car from time to time, and always ask to buy it from me should I ever sell it. But unfortunately for them, I plan to keep this car for good. I only paid about 16K and it was worth every penny! I recommend any Kia, but especially the 2006 Spectra <3

  • Kia Spectra - 2006 Kia Spectra
    By -

    Cute car, good gas mileage, fun. I really love this car, the basic features are great! We bought 2 of them at once. The Spectra wouldve gotten 10s all the way down if they wouldnt have charged us six-thousand over market value each.

  • Quite a Value....And Fun, Too. - 2006 Kia Spectra
    By -

    I highly recommend this KIA, especially considering the cost. Something I never thought Id say. Ride and steering is nice and tight. Comfort is very good, though a taller person has nowhere to fully straighten out the right leg when on cruise control. A minor concern. Car looks sharp, good clean lines/curves. Brakes feel solid. The interior looks very nice. Climate controls are easy to use. Keeping in mind that this is not a sports car; the engine has no power issues, unless you have more than one passenger, and are going up a steep hill. Overall, this car is a terrific value. Add in the incredible warranty, and I couldnt pass it up. More than a commuter car, its a fun ride.

  • Spectra is fun - 2006 Kia Spectra
    By -

    Very quiet, good acceleration, even with the automatic. Gas mileage has been improving as we put more miles on, now over 30 mpg. It now has about 7700 miles, with absolutely no problems thus far. One of the selling points was the excellent warranty, but have not had to use it. Passengers have commented it rides better than some larger mid-size vehicles.

  • Great car for the money! - 2006 Kia Spectra
    By -

    I previously owned a 98 Kia Sephia and all I can say about this new Kia is WOW. What a great deal. I got a great incentive on the car; $1500 off the MSRP (owner loyalty and other bonuses). I was going to buy it in February, but decided to wait. I looked at a few others, the Corolla, the Civic, even the new Yaris. The Kia, of course, had the best overall package. The outstanding warranty, good looks, lots of room, and its really fun to drive. For those of you considering this car, DO NOT buy the automatic. With all small 4 cylinder cars, it tends to drain the fun to drive factor out of the vehicle. I couldnt be happier with my purchase. Oh, and the dealership had outstanding service as well.

  • Sweet car for the money - 2006 Kia Spectra
    By -

    This car was a joy to own. I purchased this vehicle used with 8,000 miles on it. It never gave us any trouble. For a little over 2 years it was a great vehicle, never had it in the shop except for oil changes. There is a difference between the "drive" of an EX and a SX, spring for the SX if you can. With the Standard Transmission there is plenty enough horsepower to have some fun. Acceptable highway passing power as well. Seems like I got about 27 MPG usually.

Kia Spectra Reviews By Year:
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