Author : James Raia
With several well-established choices thriving in the same economy or
compact class, the Kia Spectra will likely have a difficult time finding its
way among legions of Honda, Toyota and Ford counterparts.But the Spectra, at least during my weekly test drive of the well-
equipped and stylish EX model, should not be overlooked as a
formidable option as a well-appointed, four-door sedan in the $15,000
price range.Introduced well into 2004 calendar year, the new Spectra's exterior has
well-designed, clean lines resembling more expensive vehicles rather
than inexpensive cars that reek of cheapness.As such, the Spectra's designation as a compact is a misnomer. Its sleek
exterior warrants design compliments and the interior provides spacious
surprises.Four adults have ample head and leg room and both the back and front
seats are spacious and efficiently positioned. Likewise, since the rear
seat has a 60-40 split fold-down option, the trunk can easily expand for
cargo. If fact, a 6x8-foot rug I rolled up and took in for cleaning fit without
issue.While earlier Spectra models were criticized as noisy and
underpowered, my vehicle performed surprisingly well. Steering and
handling were smooth and responsive and the vehicle moved well in
varied driving conditions.Exceedingly tight turning situations were also conquered without issue,
and the car maneuvered in different parking scenarios with a hint of
European confidence.Braking was satisfactory, and while the Spectra is not a sports car, it
accelerated evenly and adeptly for a four-cylinder vehicle with 138
horsepower and a four-speed automatic transmission.Many manufacturers continue to offer an excessive supplies of red
vehicles, many of which are brightly shaded and appear overtly flashy.
My Spectra likewise had a red exterior, but its shade, called Radiant
Red, was nicely toned and sharply complemented by a beige interior.Again, considering its classification as a compact or economy vehicle,
the Spectra's color scheme was further accentuated by the vehicle's
healthy list of standard features.Consider: air conditioning, dual-heated outside mirrors, AM/FM/CD with
six speakers, eight-way adjustable driver's seat and power windows and
doors.The Spectra's instrumentation - radio controls to speedometer dials are
clean and efficient. The vehicles three option featured included alloy
wheels ($360), cruise control ($200) and carpeted floor mats ($80). With
a $540 charge for inland friend and handling, my test vehicle's price
increased to $15,905.Kia, owned by the South Korean manufacturer Hyundai, doesn't have
the resale value of the well-established offerings of its dominating rivals,
most notably Honda and Toyota.But with the Spectra and the industry-leading 10-years, 100,000-mile
warranty offered by Kia, its less-than $16,000 sedan could find a
substantial market if given a fair chance.2004 Kia SpectraSafety features -- Dual front, dual front and side curtain and front
seat mounted side airbags, front and rear crumple zones and side-door
impact beams.Fuel Mileage (estimates) -- 24 mpg (city), 34 mpg (highway).Warranty -- Bumper to bumper, 5 years/60,000 miles; Power
Train, 10 years/100,000 miles; Corrosion, 5 years, 100,000 miles.
Roadside assistance, 3 years/36,000 miles.Base price -- $14,725.00James Raia is a syndicated journalist in Sacramento, California, who
writes about sports, fitness, travel and lifestyle topics as well as the car
review colum, The Weekly Driver.To read more car reviews, visit: The Weekly Driver
Keyword : Kia Spectra, Spectra, Kia, 2004 Kia Spectra, Car Reviews, The Weekly Driver
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