2008 Kia Spectra [ 2007 ]
Based on analysis of 25 Spectra reviews and test drives.
Kia Spectra - What the Auto Press Says
The 2008 Kia Spectra ranks 15 out of 29 Affordable Small Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 25 published reviews and test drives of the Kia Spectra, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
The Spectra delivers reasonable performance, a spacious and comfortable cabin, and a reasonable price tag, but it has a relatively noisy engine and handling is not as tight and predictable as many competitors.
On balance, test drivers of the 2008 Kia Spectra agree that it offers an accommodating interior with plenty of passenger and cargo room for its class, a nice array of safety features, and a reasonable price. But our analysis also shows the Spectra could stand some improvement in some areas. Test drivers, for the most part, view the sedan's ride as too soft and handling not as precise and responsive as desired. The 2008 Spectra's engine is seen as capable, though some consider it noisy under acceleration or when passing.
According to some, these things can be overlooked when you consider the car's sporty appearance -- it has one of the best scores for exterior in the affordable small car class -- and its lengthy warranty. In 2007 Kia restyled the Spectra's front and rear, therefore the 2008 model carries over virtually unchanged. If you're interested in an affordable small car, also consider the Honda Fit, or the Honda Civic. If you like the Spectra but want even more utility, consider the hatchback model, the Spectra5.
- "Loaded with features at a great price, the Spectra doesn't feel like a compact economy car. Fit and finish is well above average, and interior materials are impressive for this price class. Roominess is another strong suit, road manners are competent, and pricing is tough to beat." -- Car and Driver
- "Roomy, well equipped and for the most part pleasant to drive, the Spectra is worth the attention of anyone shopping for an affordable compact car." -- Carz Unlimited
- "The Kia Spectra is a small but compelling package. More important for everyday driving, the Spectra is a nice little car. It represents one of the best values among compacts, with an impressive list of safety equipment for its modest price." -- New Car Test Drive
- "The interior is nicely finished, the engine gets good gas mileage and the warranty is one of the longest in the business." -- Kansas City Star
- "The Spectra stands tire-to-tire with its long-established competition, and that's not bad." -- Automobile Magazine
Spectra Performance - 6.7 (Mediocre)
The 2008 Kia Spectra provides good but not great performance for its class. According to New Car Test Drive, the Spectra "is not a hot rod, but its performance is respectable." Continue with our full Performance Review to read about the pros and cons of the Spectra driving experience. continue
Spectra Exterior - 7.8 (Good)
The Kia Spectra hasn't under gone a major design overhaul since 2005, but reviewers still say its appearance is distinctive. Continue with our full Exterior Review to find out about the model's minor exterior refresh in 2007. continue
Spectra Interior - 7.3 (Good)
Our analysis shows that the Spectra's interior is comfortable and well-equipped, with a surprising amount of cargo room for its size and class. Car and Driver notes, "Lots of features for the money," and a "surprisingly high assembly quality." Continue with our full Interior Review to read more on the Spectra's features. continue
Spectra Safety - 8.5 (Very Good)
The 2008 Kia Spectra does well in government crash tests, but earns an "Acceptable" rating from the insurance industry in frontal offset tests, and a "Marginal" or "Poor" rating in side impact tests. Continue with our full Safety Review for more on the Spectra's crash test results. continue
Spectra Reliability - 8.0 (Very Good)
The 2008 Kia Spectra reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). Kia offers a five-year/60,000-mile limited basic warranty for the Spectra. Continue with our full Reliability Review to read about Kia's lengthy powertrain warranty. continue