2005 Kia Spectra Preview

2005 Kia Spectra

In its present guise, the Kia Spectra is a pretty interesting little sedan. It looks okay, doesn't cost much, is well equipped and well built, comfortable on the highway, and responsive if you press it.

Overall, it's an excellent subcompact choice balancing performance and value, which makes the prospect of the 2005 Spectra that arrives in March so interesting. After all, the president and CEO of Kia Canada Inc., Bill Porter, is promising that it will ''take all of the qualities of the current car and elevate them to the next level.''

As well as a more upscale look, the totally redesigned Spectra also has a longer wheelbase, a wider track, and more power, room and safety equipment.

The only problem that buyers might have with all this is that it means a significant jump in Spectra prices. For example, the entry-level model for the 2005 Spectra costs $1,100 more than the entry-level model for the current model, and the line now tops out at $21,095 instead of $18,795.

Even with the price jumps, Porter is so confident of the new Spectra's ''level of sophistication and refinement'' and general appeal that he expects the Korean firm's share of the segment in Canada to more than double, going from 4,400 units last year to 10,000 in 2004.

It will probably help Kia Canada that the new Spectra looks more sophisticated than the model it's replacing. Porter likes to say that the new Spectra ''has evolved into an extraordinarily stylish vehicle with a strong European flair. The expressive looks of the 2005 Spectra communicate an increased confidence that reflects the capabilities of this state-of-the-art sedan.''

Beyond the looks, Porter promises, the new Spectra follows the ongoing Kia philosophy of ''providing a driving experience that will exceed your expectations while simultaneously providing value that competitors can't match. And that's just the beginning.''

Kia has done its best to ensure that the upgraded exterior style makes its way into the interior, where Porter says ''consumers will find styling and craftsmanship that creates a more upscale European feel. From the heft of the controls to the comfort of the seating, the interior of the new Spectra redefines our commitment to this segment and our quest for offering more to consumers than they expect.''