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2004.5 Kia Spectra
Date Published: 8/22/08

2004.5 Kia Spectra
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MSRP:
$12,620 - 14,725

Invoice:
$11,925 - 13,745

Class:
Compact Car

CG Award: (What's This?)
2004.5 Kia Spectra
Expert Rating Summary
Category LX sdn, auto. Rating (See All
Ratings)
Compact Car Average Rating
Acceleration 4 4
Fuel Economy 6 6.6
Ride Quality 6 4.4
Steering/Handling/Braking 6 5.3
Quietness 5 4
Controls 6 5.6
Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front) 5 5.1
Room/Comfort (rear) 4 3.9
Cargo Room 2 3.9
Value within Class 5 5.6
Total Score: 49 48.4
Ratings: Maximum 10 points per category
Ratings based on model year 2005
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2004.5 Kia Spectra Review
Kia released a redesigned Spectra sedan in spring 2004 with new styling, more power, and additional safety features. What it did not get was a new model-year designation; it was labeled a 2004 model, like the outgoing version. A new hatchback called the Spectra5 follows during summer 2004 as a 2005 model. Based on the Elantra platform of corporate parent Hyundai, the new Spectra has a 2-inch-longer wheelbase than the previous model, but is slightly shorter, wider, and taller overall. The only engine is Elantra's 138-hp 2.0-liter 4-cyl, replacing a 124-hp 1.8. A 5-speed manual transmission is standard, a 4-speed automatic optional. Sedans bowed in LX and EX trim with standard front side airbags, head-protecting curtain side airbags, and 4-wheel disc brakes. ABS is optional on EX and unavailable on LX. Both models come with a tilt steering wheel, height-adjustable driver seat, and CD audio system. EX adds air conditioning, remote keyless entry, and power windows/locks/heated mirrors. Kia shares Hyundai's warranty coverage of 5-years/50,000-mi. basic, 10/100,000 powertrain, and 5/unlimited roadside assistance. This evaluation is based on preview test drives.
News
A wagon-like 4-dr hatchback called Spectra5 goes on sale in summer of '04, followed in the fall by a 2005 lineup adding a similarly sporty SX sedan. Both these models include a sport-tuned suspension with 16-inch alloy wheels, "aero" body add-ons, black mesh grille, sport-cloth upholstery, metal-look interior accents and other unique touches. Apart from these additions, the just-redesigned Spectra should see no big changes for the next 2-3 years.
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