Overview & Reviews

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).

• Low price, large backseat, comfortable ride, lots of storage and cupholders, standard side curtain airbags, excellent warranty.

• Engine is weak and buzzy at higher rpm, soft handling on EX model.

User Reviews:

Showing 61 through 70 of 107.00

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  great car for a great price! - 2006 Kia Spectra
  By nedyarb - July 25 - 6:16 pm

  If youre looking for a great car with excellent fuel economy, this is the one for you. I recently purchased my Spectra and so far Im very satisfied with it. The only thing that caught my attention so far with it would be that it has a high rev in 1st gear before it shifts. Other than that it has been fun to drive, and for the price its hard to pass up!

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  Great buy! - 2006 Kia Spectra
  By Jesse - July 12 - 12:06 pm

  I recently purchased a Kia Spectra after reading good reviews on the car and I have not been disappointed. I commute over 100 miles per day for work and (over 90%) hwy driving) and this car gives exceptional mileage. I have a large Dodge truck so I needed something fuel efficient and comfortable and this car does not disappoint. The build quality is really high and the materials feel as high quality as a Toyota Corolla or Honda Civit (and a step above a Mazda 3) I would recommend anyone to purchase this car. You will not be disappointed.

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  Dales Review - 2006 Kia Spectra
  By Leroy - June 26 - 10:13 am

  Was rated 34 miles to gallon highway; is getting 33-34. It hauled 3 people and luggage for 13 day vacation to Colorado. Everyone rode comfortably; no difference in performance between mountains of Colorado and the Missouri highways it normally travels. Car is quiet and fun to drive.

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  Smart 1st time purchase! - 2006 Kia Spectra
  By happyasaclam - June 13 - 7:20 pm

  I purchased my car new, as a treat to myself, and it was a smart decision. The Kia looks and feels like a higher-end car. The low cost makes buying a new car accessible to people new to car buying. The warranty is just an added bonus that leaves you feeling very secure about future problems that will eventually arise as your car gets older.

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  Nice Small Car for Experienced Drivers - 2006 Kia Spectra
  By ConcernedConsumer - June 5 - 11:36 pm

  I bought my Kia in 2006 and loved it. Got good gas mileage and ease of maneuvering in parking lots and streets. Never thought much about it until my teenager hit a culvert (under a driveway) to avoid another car partially in her lane unexpectedly. The front end smashed in and both of her legs had compound fractures and she was hospitalized for 11 days. Maybe it was the way the car hit, or not enough decrease in speed before impact, but I believe more front end would have offered more protection. Bottom line is, I would recommend these for experienced drivers and put a little more car in front of the inexperienced and teenage driver for their own safety. Hindsight is always 20/20.

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  Everything better than expected - 2006 Kia Spectra
  By Gene - February 9 - 12:06 am

  For a first new car purchase, I researched thoroughly through Edmunds and Consumer Reports. After 3 years, this car has surpassed my expectations, no complaints whatsoever. Excellent gas mileage, plenty of head and leg room, car has been consistently dependable in all driving situations. Have had it on 1000+ mile trip @ continuous speeds of 80mph, and have needed peppiness in interstate traffic as of late, the car keeps meeting expectations. The only complaint was one tire with a separated belt somewhere in it, didnt figure this out until after warranty was out on tires, no fault of car manufacturer. Car still runs fine, just low noise from the tire, faint wobble when rotated to front.

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  Never had a problem - 2006 Kia Spectra
  By christinea - December 13 - 11:51 pm

  I loved this car. I had it for 5 years, and I never had ANY issues. I did have to take off the front spoiler because it scraped on the driveway. I never had any work done on it in 5 years (other than oil/brakes/tires). I averaged 25 mpg till the last day. I was in an accident on the highway at lower speed, and the airbag deployed right away, BUT my head never hit ANYTHING. I came out 99% okay, just some minor whiplash. I 100% recommend this car. Turns great, isnt very noisy, accelerates nicely, quality interior, efficient.

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  Great Deal - 2006 Kia Spectra
  By Jim - December 4 - 9:40 pm

  What a car for the money. If you are looking for a quality car at a affordable price this is it. Very comfortable ride and the interior design is great; ample leg and head room front and back. With the standard safety features and options this vehicle comes with for the price it is the best on the market and thats not even mentioning the standard warranty you get at no charge. If this vehicle is a consideration I do suggest going with the SX model. Many more options for not a lot more money. The 06 has a much improved sound system and power is plenty, cruises like a dream on the highway.

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  2006 Kia Spectra EX - 2006 Kia Spectra
  By dooscoop32 - November 16 - 2:33 pm

  Having had an assortment of problems with a previous American car, we decided to look at the Korean Kia Spectra EX. Wow, were we ever pleasantly surprised. This is a great little car. The doors close solidly with a click. The engine cranks quickly and is eerily quiet for a small car. Power is more than adequate for our intended use. Seating position and comfort are outstanding. The power options list for this car is lengthy including power, heated mirrors, power windows and locks, trunk release, tilt wheel, rear defroster, CD stereo, A/C, keyless remote entry and more! The build quality feels first-class. This car is an absolute pleasure to own. And the gas mileage is great too!

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  road trip with a brand new car - 2006 Kia Spectra
  By trish - April 6 - 11:36 am

  I just bought my Spectra 5 a week before taking it on a 2,000 mile road trip. I am 53", my husband is 63". Surprise, he loves it as much as I do; he wasnt cramped and I wasnt wore out after driving it for 2 days and 1,000 miles on the return trip. Had no problem with acceleration through the mountains or keeping up with traffic and passing on the highway. Fuel economy was fantastic, almost 39 miles to the gallon. So far there is nothing i dont love about my new car.