Basic transportation comes in many forms, and the Kia Spectra was definitely one of them. Its replacement, the Forte, is now on sale. You’ve probably seen it on dealer lots or on TV in some amusing commercials. The name of progress spelled the end of the road for the Spectra—and used examples are now more abundant than ever at your favorite pre-owned dealership.
Spectra hit our roads as a 2005 model that used the same platform and drivetrain as the Hyundai Elantra. It was available in a four-door sedan or a hatchback 5-door model called the Spectra 5.
All were motivated by a two-litre four-cylinder engine with 138 horsepower. A five-speed manual or four-speed automatic could be fitted, and the Spectra was a front-wheel drive in any case.
Equipment included air conditioning, cruise control, power accessories, tilt steering and even a sunroof, depending on the model and trim level selected. A CD player was standard, and some models came with an integrated USB port and auxiliary jack for the stereo.
ABS brakes were available with Spectra’s front-disc / rear-drum setup, and the entire package rode a set of standard 15-inch wheels and an independent suspension. This was was tuned slightly stiffer in the 5-door model.
Alloy wheels, tinted glass heated mirrors and an alarm were available, too. If the top-line machine is what you’re after, investigate the Spectra ‘LX Premium’ or ‘SX’ trim levels.
What did owners see in the Spectra? Seems it was the relatively ideal combination of sportiness, sensibility and value. Most owners say they were attracted by the level of equipment provided for the price, as well as the upbeat, energetic and versatile interior. Many Spectra drivers enjoy both the acceleration and fuel economy, alongside the handling dynamics and stereo system.
Common complaints dealt with the seats, which drivers say attract pet hair, stain easily and are difficult to clean. Interior plastics and carpeting may scuff, wear or discolor easily too-- so be sure to pay close attention to the condition of your potential Spectra’s cabin on a test drive. Several owners wished for a flip-down rear armrest for backseat passengers, and many commented on the Spectra’s wimpy horn sound, though this is trivial.
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| Basic transportation comes in many forms, and the Kia Spectra was definitely one of them. |
Spectra hit our roads as a 2005 model that used the same platform and drivetrain as the Hyundai Elantra. It was available in a four-door sedan or a hatchback 5-door model called the Spectra 5.
All were motivated by a two-litre four-cylinder engine with 138 horsepower. A five-speed manual or four-speed automatic could be fitted, and the Spectra was a front-wheel drive in any case.
Equipment included air conditioning, cruise control, power accessories, tilt steering and even a sunroof, depending on the model and trim level selected. A CD player was standard, and some models came with an integrated USB port and auxiliary jack for the stereo.
ABS brakes were available with Spectra’s front-disc / rear-drum setup, and the entire package rode a set of standard 15-inch wheels and an independent suspension. This was was tuned slightly stiffer in the 5-door model.
Alloy wheels, tinted glass heated mirrors and an alarm were available, too. If the top-line machine is what you’re after, investigate the Spectra ‘LX Premium’ or ‘SX’ trim levels.
What did owners see in the Spectra? Seems it was the relatively ideal combination of sportiness, sensibility and value. Most owners say they were attracted by the level of equipment provided for the price, as well as the upbeat, energetic and versatile interior. Many Spectra drivers enjoy both the acceleration and fuel economy, alongside the handling dynamics and stereo system.
Common complaints dealt with the seats, which drivers say attract pet hair, stain easily and are difficult to clean. Interior plastics and carpeting may scuff, wear or discolor easily too-- so be sure to pay close attention to the condition of your potential Spectra’s cabin on a test drive. Several owners wished for a flip-down rear armrest for backseat passengers, and many commented on the Spectra’s wimpy horn sound, though this is trivial.
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| Common complaints dealt with the seats, which drivers say attract pet hair. |