2007 Kia Spectra5 Safety Review [ 2009 , 2008 ]
Kia Spectra5 Safety Review
Safety - 8.1 (Very Good)
The Spectra5 does not perform consistently in crash tests. While the federal government gives the wagon solid ratings for both frontal and side impact crashes, the Spectra5 gets below average scores in private testing.
The Spectra5 earned 5 out of 5 stars for both driver and front passenger protection in front impact crashes from the government's National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), and 4 out of 5 stars for both front seat and backseat occupant protection in side impact crashes. However, the last time the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) tested the Spectra, 2006, it gave the wagon its second-highest rating, "acceptable," for protection in front crashes, and the lowest rating, "poor," for protection in side crashes.
Accident Avoidance
The Spectra5 has four-wheel disc brakes with an optional anti-lock braking system. Reviews like Edmunds are disappointed this feature isn't standard, but note the extra cost is low enough that "we can't complain too loudly."
Spectra5s also have a tire pressure monitoring system to help prevent accidents.
Crash Protection
The Spectra5's crash protection equipment includes dual front and seat-mounted side air bags for the front passengers with full-length side curtain air bags for rear seat passenger's protection. The wagon is built with front and rear crumple zones, as well as side-impact door beams, and an energy-absorbing steering column.
