Truly, the only weak link in this visual package is the standard 185/65R-14 inch all-season tires and 14-inch alloy wheels. Skinny and undersized, they not only detract from the cars otherwise athletic design but also hinder its handling. Through the corners the GS-X leans beyond comfort levels while at high speed it bounces over uneven highway joints, especially disconcerting if experienced during a long sweeping corner. The sad thing is, if it weren't for the wheel and tire package, the Kia's fully-independent suspension with MacPherson struts up front and a multilink setup at the rear is probably capable of far greater performance. That said most GS-X owners probably won't drive their cars very far beyond posted speed limits as it is.
For that reason most won't be concerned about its only moderate braking capabilities, due to non-ABS equipped front discs and rear drums, and less than exhilarating straight-line performance. Sure, the 125-hp 1.8-L 4-cylinder moves the GS-X forward at an adequate pace to keep up with traffic, but the car looks like it should be quicker. Nevertheless, the engine is not overly harsh under 4,500 rpm - where most people will keep it - and does meet current ULEV specifications, making it a clean and relatively quiet compromise.
Either a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission is offered, with the latter benefiting acceleration at the expense of rather long throws and a fairly loose and spongy shifter. The automatic changes gears crisply, however, with immediate downshift response to throttle input.
For that reason most won't be concerned about its only moderate braking capabilities, due to non-ABS equipped front discs and rear drums, and less than exhilarating straight-line performance. Sure, the 125-hp 1.8-L 4-cylinder moves the GS-X forward at an adequate pace to keep up with traffic, but the car looks like it should be quicker. Nevertheless, the engine is not overly harsh under 4,500 rpm - where most people will keep it - and does meet current ULEV specifications, making it a clean and relatively quiet compromise.
Either a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission is offered, with the latter benefiting acceleration at the expense of rather long throws and a fairly loose and spongy shifter. The automatic changes gears crisply, however, with immediate downshift response to throttle input.