2009 Kia Spectra5

• Overall
• Prices
• Performance
• Exterior
• Interior
• Safety
• Reliability
• Photos & Videos

Interior - What the Auto Press Says

Kia didn't skimp on space, quality or features inside the Spectra5. But it does receive unfavorable attention for its lack of proper bolstering in the front seat.

• "The interior roominess is truly amazing...while the tall car stance is a boon to anyone for whom ducking and bending can be a serious challenge." -- About.com
• "Inside is a modern cabin that's roomy and pleasant with quality materials and good fit and finish. Everything is easy to operate." -- New Car Test Drive
• "The seats are subpar for contour and comfort. Long-legged drivers will likely want more rearward seat travel." -- Consumer Guide

Front Seats

The Kia Spectra5's tall stance allows for excellent visibility in the front row, but several note the seats are not as comfortable as they should be, even in a bargain class.

• "More than one reviewer...had trouble getting comfortable in the driver's seat." -- Kelley Blue Book
• "Despite a tilt steering wheel and lever-action seat-height adjuster, few of our testers were able to find an ideal driving position." -- Consumer Guide
• "The seats are softly cushioned but provide satisfactory support." -- Cars.com

Rear Seats

Many reviewers describe the Spectra5's rear seating as more comfortable than the front seats -- a rarity among small cars.

• "Don't call 'shotgun!' because the tall, firm, supportive, split-folding rear bench seats is the better spot to ride." -- Autoweb
• "Rear-seat passengers are treated to legroom in line with the car's impressive headroom." -- Kelley Blue Book
• "An easy fit for 6-footers." -- Road and Track

Interior Features

The 2009 Kia Spectra5 exceeds the expectations of an economy car with its healthy list of standard features, including a leather-trimmed steering wheel, power windows and doors and a 12-volt power outlet. Many also speak highly of the cabin design and easy ergonomics.

• "The straightforward instruments and dark-upper/light-lower dash treatment are easy on the eyes." -- Road and Track
• "Proves that interior can be stylish and user friendly without being expensive. Its cabin features an organic design that's pleasant to look at. It feels like a compact, but doesn't feel cheap. Everything is easy to operate with no awkward or annoying traits." -- New Car Test Drive
• "Inside, the Spectra5 is styled and appointed in the accepted Asian sport-compact manner. Which is only appropriate, all things considered, and it's done tastefully. ... Gauges and controls are simple." -- The Auto Channel
• "Audiophiles be warned: low-voltage radio stations are difficult to find and keep with the Spectra5's stereo head unit and antenna." -- Autoweb

Cargo

Compared to other small cars and hatchbacks, the Kia Spectra5's cargo area should be more than enough space for most drivers, plus there's an abundant amount of smaller stowage space.

• "If you need extra space, look at the Spectra5. It boasts an 18.3-cubic-foot cargo area and considerably more room if you lower the 60/40-split rear seats -- maximum cargo capacity is 53 cubic feet." -- Edmunds
• Comparing the 5 to the four-door Spectra sedan, Consumer Guide notes, "Spectra5 has the same versatility, but its hatchback design swallows larger loads. Good cabin storage with various slots, bins, and cubbies." -- Consumer Guide
• "The rear cargo area holds far more than the trunk of a similarly sized sedan, and will easily swallow items too bulky to pass through a narrow trunk opening." -- The Auto Channel