2009 Kia Spectra: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

The 2009 Kia Spectra and Spectra5 are largely unchanged. This compact car slots above Kia's subcompact Rio and uses a basic design from the 2001-2006 Elantra from Kia's corporate parent, Hyundai. Spectra comes as a sedan in LX, EX, and sporty SX trims. It also offers a 4-door hatchback called the Spectra5. All models have a 138-hp 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine. A manual or automatic transmission is available on all models. Available safety features include ABS, front side airbags, and curtain side airbags. All but LX include 4-wheel disc brakes, air conditioning, remote keyless entry, and power windows, locks and heated mirrors. SX and Spectra5 have a sport suspension. A sunroof is newly available on the EX.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 classes based on size, price, and market position. Compact Cars comprise popularly priced sedans, hatchbacks, and wagons with wheelbases 99.4 inches or longer.

Our Best Buys include the Honda Civic, Nissan Versa, and Scion xB. Our Recommended picks are the Chevrolet HHR, Hyundai Elantra, and Mazda 3.

New or significantly redesigned models include the Ford Focus (coupe), Hyundai Elantra Touring, Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart, Pontiac Vibe, Toyota Corolla, Toyota Matrix, and Volkswagen Jetta SportWagen. The Volkswagen Jetta also adds a diesel engine.