Overview & Reviews
People buy compact economy cars because they're affordable and fuel-efficient, but the secret to building a great econobox is to make it look, feel and drive like a more expensive car than it really is. Kia never quite managed to do that with its now-defunct Spectra, though its replacement, the Forte is considerably closer to this ideal.
The original Kia Spectra hatchback and sedan were unrefined, underpowered and cheaply constructed. They reinforced the cheap-car image Americans held at the time regarding Korean cars. But the second-generation Spectra sedan and Spectra5 four-door hatchback counterpart moved up the scale considerably in terms of style, substance and refinement. However, the Spectra was still at the bottom of the crowded economy sedan segment when it was put out to pasture after the 2009 model year. If you just need wheels on the cheap, a used Spectra could satisfy, but we'd recommend anteing up for a more sophisticated rival.
Most Recent Kia Spectra
The most recent (second-generation) Kia Spectra was sold from midway through the 2004 model year through 2009. It was a compact sedan or (as of 2005) a hatchback that could seat four comfortably and five in a pinch. Both body styles featured a 138-horsepower, 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that provided spirited performance around town but felt a little winded during highway passing maneuvers. A standard five-speed manual transmission routed power to the front wheels, and a four-speed automatic was optional.
The sedan was offered in three trim levels -- LX, EX and SX. The Spectra5 hatchback was available in a single SX trim. The LX was bare-bones, but the EX boasted air-conditioning, a CD stereo, full power accessories and keyless entry. The SX model added upgraded interior and exterior trim, along with firmer suspension tuning and bigger wheels and tires. The Spectra's safety features included standard front seat-mounted side airbags, full-length side curtain airbags and four-wheel disc brakes. Antilock brakes were optional.
In reviews, we generally praised the Kia Spectra for its lengthy list of standard equipment, user-friendly cabin design, decent build and materials quality, smooth ride and competent handling. Criticisms included the engine's lack of pep at high speeds, disappointing real-world fuel economy, and steering that was a tad sloppy. Those looking for a used second-generation Spectra should note that resale values are quite low, so good deals will likely be easy to find.
Past Kia Spectra Models
The first-generation Kia Spectra was launched in the 2000 model year as a four-door hatchback and was offered through the 2004 model year (with the changeover to the current model happening midyear). New to Kia's lineup, the four-door Spectra hatchback served as a more youthful and practical complement to the more pedestrian Sephia sedan, with which it shared its 124-hp, 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine and major mechanicals. In 2002, Kia dropped the Sephia name altogether and began calling the sedan "Spectra" as well.
The Spectra hatchback originally came in two trim levels: GS and GSX. The base GS offered the essentials, little more than a CD player and a height- and lumbar-adjustable driver seat as standard (although air-conditioning became standard in '04). The GSX added A/C, power windows and locks, a tilt steering wheel and some body modifications intended to make it look sporty, while offering ABS, cruise control and a CD changer as options.
Once launched, the Spectra sedan carried over the Sephia's base and LS trim levels, which basically mirrored the hatchback's GS and GSX trims, respectively, in terms of features, save for the GSX hatchback's body modifications.
Editors at the time appreciated the Spectra's Lotus-tuned suspension, as it delivered decent handling and a smooth, if floaty, ride. Weak links included the brakes, tires and engine. Acceleration was sluggish at highway speeds, with a raucous engine note and unimpressive fuel economy. Inside, the Kia Spectra offered decent room for passengers, but materials quality and fit and finish were well below average. Anyone shopping for a used compact sedan or hatchback is advised to look elsewhere.
User Reviews:
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Great car - 2002 Kia Spectra
By Ropoca - January 11 - 2:00 amIts a great car Ive havent had any problems I love the car.
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This is not the old spectra - 2004 Kia Spectra
By Dottie Jackson - January 9 - 10:00 amWe I first talked to a salesmans about the spectra I didnt want one, because my son had a 2002 model and he really hated that car. Well when I saw this new Kia, it looked nothing like my son Kia. When I showed the Spectra to my son he was blown away by how good the Spectra now looks. I have been so happy with my Spectra, it drives great and it looks even better then it drives. Thank you Kia for making a great redesigned Spectra. Dottie Jackson
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#1 and the only #1 - 2005 Kia Spectra
By JJ Lucky Winner - January 9 - 10:00 amI have had this great car for 6 months now and I am very happy with it. Everything about this car is great. If you are looking for a peace of mind and the safest cars of its style, this is the one you really need to consider.
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Good Reliable Car - 2005 Kia Spectra
By Gaby - January 9 - 10:00 amI just bought the 2004.5 model and I really enjoy it. Its a great, fun car. Though a bit noisy when above 60 mph and specially while going up hills, the car is really the best in its class and definitely out performs the 2004 Honda Civic that my husband bought in March. If we had known about the Spectra before buying the Honda, we would both be driving Spectras. Its supposed to be more fuel efficient, but I dont find this to be the case. As a former 2000 Toyota Camry dirver, I used to get more gas mileage than I do now with the Spectra. The overall price, warranty, car design are PERFECT. I highly recommend this car and KIA to everyone. Go KIA SPECTRA!!!!
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Kia Spectra Rocks! - 2009 Kia Spectra
By Mary - December 29 - 3:06 amOur son crashed the family Ford Explorer. Used cars were high-priced. We decided to buy a Kia Spectra EX 4 door sedan for about $1500 more than it would have cost to get a 2005 used Explorer. Of course, we got a red one! Im a car buff and this is one nice vehicle. Great gas mileage (averages over 28 mpg in mixed driving), peppy pick up, smooth ride, plenty of cupholders. The car came loaded with options - AC, automatic headlights, extra 12 volt chargers,and even an iPod port. Safety ratings on this car rival those of Toyota and Honda, and exceed those of the Ford Focus. All for about $14000, including delivery, tax and license fees. I love it!
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Loving It! - 2006 Kia Spectra
By whatitis - December 27 - 9:16 amI love this car. Bought it used a few days ago and I am very pleased. Just had my first child and wanted something economical at a good price and good on gas. Had 21,000 miles on it when purchased. I couldnt be more satisfied with the feel of the vehicle and comfort of my little one in the back with his car seat and the 3-point buckle system that keeps him safe. Found a very good car with all the extras included (ground effects, bug shield, tinted windows, power windows/locks, etc.) Absolutely love the sporty look and for the price it beats Mazda3, Suzuki Reno, and all the other guys. Most importantly still has all factory warranties included!!
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Spectra not a favorite - 2000 Kia Spectra
By Rootzy - December 26 - 10:00 amThis car had multiple problems right after buying it brand new. I sent it to the shop three times for exhaust problems. It is cheaply made and the interior is drying and cracking. All the air conditioning vents broke and fell out about a year ago.
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Kia Spectra is Great! - 2004 Kia Spectra
By wa_wabbit - December 14 - 2:00 amWhile my Kia is small, it is big on style, mileage, handling, safety, and fun-ability! The buying experience was first-class, and the warranty is unbeatable! The only thing I can find wrong with my Spectra, is that the front seat safety belts are tight on the hips. Other than that, I have absolutely no complaints for this entry- level car! Its an extremely user- friendly auto!
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Great Card for money - 2004 Kia Spectra
By rogerr - December 9 - 10:00 amgreat car for the money, cheap yeah, but i like it, and unique in its look.
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Love my little imported sports car - 2004 Kia Spectra
By flipper - December 9 - 10:00 amWe went on a 1400 mile trip with 300 hundred pounds of luggage and still got great gas mileage. This baby has more pep than my S10 BLAZER(V6)ever had. We are very satisfied.
