New 2009 Spectra5 [ 2008 , 2007 ]
Spectra5 - What the Auto Press Says
The Spectra5 is nimble on highways and easy on the wallet, but is not the best vehicle for impressive power or road-trip comfort.
The king of warranties, sharp handling and outstanding gas mileage continue to be the 2009 Kia Spectra5's key qualities, while unsupportive seating and a glaring lack of anti-lock brakes from the standard features list are still seen as its perceived low points. But overall, previous and present reviews label the Spectra5 a competent car for around-town driving. Plus it has one of the more attractive MSRPs of either the small car or hatchback classes.
Last redesigned in 2005, the Spectra5 has undergone very few changes since then. It's still available in one trim, the SX, but there is a similar Spectra sedan. If you're in the market for a small car, consider the Honda Civic. If you're leaning more toward a hatchback, think about the Honda Fit's utility.
- "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
- "The Kia Spectra is a good choice among a field of compact cars that offer few, if any, bad choices. The Spectra compact sedan and five-door hatchback offer excellent fuel economy along with Kia's strong warranty, which make for a compelling package for budget-minded buyers." -- New Car Test Drive
Spectra5 Performance - NA
The 2009 Kia Spectra5 has a fun personality, but it is not one of the fastest options in the class. During a test drive last year, New Car Test Drive found the car "offers respectable performance from its 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine," with handling and steering that is "good...considering the car's height and its tallish tires." Our full Performance Review gives a complete picture of the car's power and handling. continue
Spectra5 Exterior - NA
Most say the Spectra5's design fits in well with, and maybe even looks better than, other five-door hatchbacks. The Auto Channel says, "It won't be used as a prop in a bad sci-fi movie, and it looks more expensive than it is." Go to our full Exterior Review for more reviewer opinions on the sheetmetal, or check out our Kia Spectra5 Photo Gallery for front, side ane rear images of the hatchback. continue
Spectra5 Interior - NA
Kia offers great utility and has surprisingly good cabin quality, but many say there could stand to be more cushioning on the seats. Continue with our full Interior Review for details on standard features and trunk space, or click through our Kia Spectra5 Photo Gallery to see the cockpit trim or space afforded in the front and rear rows. continue
Spectra5 Safety - NA
The 2009 Kia Spectra5 does well in federal government crash tests, and provides a long list of standard safety equipment. Continue with the full Safety Review for more information on the Spectra5's safety features. continue
Spectra5 Reliability - NA
The Spectra5 is covered by a basic limited five-year/60,000-mile warranty, and a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty. Continue with our full Reliability Review for a more complete run down of the Spectra5's available coverage. continue
