2005 Kia Spectra Preview

A Well Dressed Korean

A few months back when Kia announced its new Spectra (Cerato outside of North America), its marketing division had released snippets of photos not unlike that of a supercar or luxury sedan. Piquing our interests with curvaceous body panels and graciously styled fenders eclipsing strategically placed back lighting, the photos did a good job garnering curiosity.

As far as Kias go the new Spectra is certainly a looker! (Photo: Kia Motors)

Now the real deal is exposed, prior to making its grand debut at the upcoming 2004 Detroit auto show. As far as Kias go the new car is certainly a looker! Never have I seen such a dramatic and boldly styled compact sedan from this marque. A great deal of the visual display comes from the car's bravely styled grille, which reminds me of past Mercedes-Benz models mashed up with a bit of Saab styling coming from the two intakes alongside the grille. Angular polycarbonate lens headlamps give the front end personality, while flush-mounted fog lights and smooth bumpers and valances complete the front end.

The new Kia poses impressive styling traits, ranging from puffed up arches at each fender to the sharp crease-line, which runs parallel to the window line. (Photo: Kia Motors)

Moving past the grille the new Kia poses other impressive styling traits, ranging from puffed up arches at each fender to the sharp crease-line, which runs parallel to the window line. A low, rakish rear pillar combines to promote the very sporty yet clean look of a fastback, not unlike the outgoing GS-X model. The new Spectra will also offer a handy liftback in five-door trim, while the 4-door model will feature a conventional hinged trunk. From the rear three-quarter view, the short-tailed Spectra comes across as a four-door Hyundai Tiburon. Overall I'm impressed with the styling of this compact model.

But it hardly looks compact. All this aesthetic punch is packed into a 4,480 mm long, 1,735 mm wide and 1,470 mm tall package. The new Spectra's added dimensions compared to the outgoing Spectra model, makes it roomier inside too, improving comfort to driver and passengers, especially those in the rear.