2007 Kia Spectra: Road Test
Archived Review
2007 Kia Spectra ▼
Select a Trim ▼
- MSRP: $12,895 -$16,995
- Invoice: $12,345 -$15,890
Features & Specifications
Compare Vehicle
Related to Kia Sephia/Spectra
Previous Year's Reviews
View Another Vehicle
Our road test for the 2007 Kia Spectra includes a full evaluation of the 2007 Kia Spectra from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2007 Kia Spectra, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2007 Kia Spectra help you decide if a 2007 Kia Spectra is right for you.
Advertisement
ACCELERATION
| EX, manual | EX, automatic | Spectra5, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 4 | 5 | 4.6 |
Acceleration adequate for most needs. Not much highway passing power, but around-town response is fine with manual transmission. Test manual-transmission Spectra5 did 8.9 sec 0-60 mph. Automatic saps enough energy to slow progress up steep hills, but is generally smooth, responsive.
FUEL ECONOMY
| EX, manual | EX, automatic | Spectra5, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 6 | 7 | 6.4 |
With manual transmission, test sedans averaged 28.1-28.5 mpg overall, and test Spectra5s averaged 20.1-22.9 in mostly city driving. Test automatic-transmission sedan averaged 22.8 mpg.
RIDE QUALITY
| EX, manual | EX, automatic | Spectra5, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 5 | 5.3 |
LX and EX sedans emphasize comfort with one of the more absorbent rides in the class. They smother most bumps well, aided by solid structure, soft-riding tires. Downside is wayward ride motions over uneven and wavy surfaces. Sport-tuned SX, Spectra5 choppier over broken surfaces, more composed over moguls.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| EX, manual | EX, automatic | Spectra5, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 6 | 5.8 |
Fine low-speed maneuverability, but LX/EX lose composure in quick direction changes at higher speed due to limited tire grip, lots of body lean. Testers divided on steering: responsive to some, slow to others. Test EX prone to wander in highway crosswinds, exhibited unwanted nosedive in simulated panic stops. Spectra5 feels more agile thanks to firmer suspension, larger tires.
QUIETNESS
| EX, manual | EX, automatic | Spectra5, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 4 | 4.4 |
Wind, road ruckus nicely subdued. Engine a bit coarse and hoarse around 4000 rpm, but acceptably refined for this price class. Hatchback design makes road noise more pronounced in Spectra5.
CONTROLS
| EX, manual | EX, automatic | Spectra5, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 5.9 |
Gauges easily read, controls easily reached. High-set audio unit and three-dial climate system are simple to adjust, and all switchgear works with smooth precision. Seat fabric feels low budget, but cabin materials and finish otherwise exceed anything in this price range. Poorly sealed right-rear window in one test sedan rattled, generated highway wind whistle.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| EX, manual | EX, automatic | Spectra5, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 5.6 |
Tilt steering wheel, lever-action seat-height adjuster are nice standards in this price range, but few testers find ideal driving position. Seats subpar for contour and comfort. Long-legged drivers will likely want more rearward seat travel. Head room just OK for six-footers. Roof styling impedes aft visibility in Spectra5.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| EX, manual | EX, automatic | Spectra5, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
Not spacious, but good underseat foot clearance, OK knee and shoulder space, adequate six-footer head room. Entry/exit easy enough for a compact.
CARGO ROOM
| EX, manual | EX, automatic | Spectra5, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 | 2 | 6 | 4.8 |
Sedans' usefully shaped trunk has fairly small opening, but adequate volume that's expandable via standard 60/40 folding rear seat. Spectra5 has same versatility, but its hatchback design swallows larger loads. Good cabin storage with various slots, bins, cubbies.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| EX, manual | EX, automatic | Spectra5, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 6 |
Spectra represents a laudable blend of comfort, room, and features--especially the safety of standard front side airbags and curtain side airbags. Kia's long warranty is another plus, and the SX and Spectra5 offer a modicum of sportiness. In all, these cars deserve a look if you're watching your budget.
Total Score
| EX, manual | EX, automatic | Spectra5, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 52 | 50 | 55 | 52.8 |
Total Score: 52
Scores for all Compact Cars
Car Buying Resources
Search
Local Listings
Vehicle
History Report
FREE CARFAX Record Check
Looking at a used car, check for costly hidden problems before
you buy.
