Expert Reviews

DriverSide Overview
For an entry-level compact economy car, the 2008 Kia Spectra5 checks all the necessary boxes. While the Kia marquee may be looked at as more of a "budget brand" than a quality import, the Spectra 5 certainly fits in with its economy import brethren. The build quality is decent, fuel economy is good, it rides well and most importantly of all it's versatile. The five-star frontal crash rating is reassuring to the safety conscious, as are the standard full-length side curtain airbags and front seat side mounted airbags. Overall though, the ergonomics and cabin comfort fall short of the competition and, unfortunately, this is not reflected in the Spectra5's pricing.

What's to Like
The versatility of the Spectra 5 is it's best selling point and, thanks to its 5-door wagon design and 60/40 folding seat, plenty of cargo space is on offer. Fuel economy is also a plus, returning up to 33 mpg on the highway and up to 27 mpg during city driving.

What's Not to Like
Being as the Spectra 5 is a compact, entry-level economy car, comfort has not been put at a premium. The interior finishes lack polish, there is little rear legroom and drivers over six feet tall simply won't be able to fit comfortably behind the wheel.

DriverSide Driving Impressions
The biggest gripe we have with the way the Spectra5 drives is the manual transmission. The gears are difficult to find and the light, vague clutch coupled with an overly sensitive gas pedal make the Kia difficult to live with in stop-and-go traffic. Potential buyers would be advised to consider only the automatic transmission. The steering is light and it seems to take more effort than it should to keep the car on course through turns. While the car rides smoothly and doesn't suffer greatly from cabin noise, the seats lack back support and can make the drive uncomfortable for stints lasting several hours.

Engine and Drivetrain
The Spectra5 comes standard with a 2.0L 16-valve DOHC four-cylinder engine, which produces 138 horsepower and 136 lb-ft of torque. As a result, it really has to be revved to get moving, especially with a few passengers or heavy cargo on board, and hills are a bit of an exercise in survival. Again, the manual transmission lacks feel and drivability - opt for the auto instead.

Interesting Vehicle Features and Options
Our Spectra5 came with an optional 6-disc in-dash CD changer mated to a six-speaker sound system. The biggest surprise was the audio auxiliary input, which allows an iPod or other audio source to be plugged directly into the sound system. The rear gate and folding rear seats expand the Spectra5 into a convenient hauler. Unfortunately, the power sunroof which came with our car is an extra option, but it really helped make the interior of the car feel more spacious than it actually is.

Key Technology Evaluation
Our test car was fitted with a 4-disc ABS system, which comes as a $400 option. We would highly recommend the ABS upgrade, as the system was one of the better highlights of the vehicle. Heated power rearview mirrors come standard, as do power windows, locks, cruise control and keyless remote entry.

Green Evaluation/Gas Mileage
This is where the Kia shines, returning 27 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway. A super ultra low emissions vehicle (SULEV) version, which emits roughly ten percent less pollutants, is also on offer. While it makes slightly less power (132 hp), the SULEV model is a welcome option to would-be hybrid buyers considering a cheaper gasoline driven car.

A Closer Look: Vehicle Details
Interior
The interior is fitted with lower quality plastics and carpet. Unfortunately the seats don't offer much in the way of back support and will leave your lower back sore after extended rides. The middle rear seatbelt actually extends from the ceiling and across the rear passenger side seat, making it awkward and uncomfortable to use.

Exterior
The Spectra5 maintains a pseudo-sporty wagon exterior and comes standard with fog lights, front and rear spoilers, side sills, a "rear valance" (plastic molding under the bumper) and 16-inch alloy wheels.

Market Segment and Pricing
Pricing is the Spectra5's Achilles Heel. With a base price of $15,995, it's already on the high end of its market segment. Add in the options equipped on our test car - $400 for ABS, $300 for the 6-disc in-dash CD changer, $700 for the power moonroof with tilt and a $625 destination charge and the total comes to a disturbingly high $18,020.

What We Think
The Kia Spectra5 is a competent entry-level compact, but it certainly isn't without its faults. While its design offers versatility and its suspension offers a decent ride, it suffers in terms of comfort and drivability. Worst of all, it's priced too high to make it a viable choice given the competition. Kia Spectra5, thy adversary's name is Honda Fit.