2008 Kia Spectra5 [ 2009 , 2007 ]
Based on analysis of 21 Spectra5 reviews and test drives.
Kia Spectra5 - What the Auto Press Says
The 2008 Kia Spectra5 ranks 13 out of 35 Affordable Small Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 21 published reviews and test drives of the Kia Spectra5, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
The Spectra5 has nimble handling and comfortable interior at a low price. The Spectra5 also has a lengthy warranty to distinguish it from competitors.
The 2008 Kia Spectra5 gets notice for outstanding gas mileage, sharp handling and a spacious interior. It used to be that Kia's reputation was as "a manufacturer of appliance vehicles -- you know, nothing to fall in love with, just something that runs," as Car and Driver writes, but now times are changing. "Take notice, Japan. The Koreans are on a learning curve as steep as Mount Everest, and Kia's latest sherpa-hauler, the Spectra5, is eyeing the summit in the entry-level ranks," says Road and Track. The Spectra5 is also notable for its lengthy warranty.
But the Spectra5's ranking on both the affordable small car and hatchback lists is hurt by some perceived flaws. Its engine is competent, but not overly so, and it lacks the standard anti-lock brakes that some of its competitors provide. And some report its low price tag does not ensure value over time. Still, the Spectra5 receives a respectable overall ranking and score. The 2009 Spectra5 is now available, with minimal changes since the 2008 model year.
- "Kia Spectra5 arrives with a sticker that is pleasingly light on the budget for a car with a long list of amenities." -- Car and Driver
- "The Spectra5 combines a fun-to-drive character, entertaining power, reasonable fuel consumption, and a most useful design. It's small outside, for easy maneuverability in traffic and parking, but has plenty of space inside." -- The Auto Channel
- "K, K, K, Kia. It's not hard to imagine adding water and - poof! - two weeks later you've got a Spectra5 wearing a bright green 'fro. It's a lovable, scrappy, boisterous little car, like a Boston Terrier with wheels. It even growls good-naturedly when the revs climb." -- Autoweb
- "It is almost a miracle of packaging. ... So throw away your perceptions of Kia and take a test drive, but prepare for a surprise." -- About.com
Spectra5 Performance - 7.0 (Good)
On the road the 2008 Kia Spectra5 is spry as opposed to strong. The Auto Channel sums up opinion best, calling the Spectra "fun to drive, and if it's not the fastest car in the world in a straight line, no big deal. Wanna go fast in a straight line? Buy an airplane ticket. Corners are where the fun is." Continue with our full Performance Review for more on the Spectra5's fun-loving dynamics. continue
Spectra5 Exterior - 7.7 (Good)
The Spectra5's sleek appearance should appeal to younger drivers, but its design also hits some low notes. The Detroit News says "it's not a dog in the looks department, but the Spectra5 isn't a purebred either." Check out our Spectra5 Photo Gallery for images of a blue Spectra5, or continue with our full Exterior Review to read the design similarities between this wagon and others in its class. continue
Spectra5 Interior - 7.2 (Good)
Kia didn't skimp on space, quality or features inside the Spectra5, but its interior doesn't best a competitive class. Check out the Kia Spectra5 Photo Gallery to see the car's 18.3 cubic feet of cargo space up close, or read our full Interior Review for details on standard entertainment features. continue
Spectra5 Safety - 9.5 (Excellent)
The Spectra5 does well in federal government crash tests, and provides a lengthy list of either standard or optional safety equipment. Continue with our full Safety Review for an analysis of test scores and safety features. continue
Spectra5 Reliability - 5.0 (Mediocre)
The 2008 Kia Spectra5 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). The Spectra5 is covered by a basic limited five-year/60,000-mile warranty. Check out the full Reliability Review for more information on Kia's perceived quality. continue
