What the GS-X lacks in get-up-and-go it makes up for with standard equipment. Otherwise mirroring the Spectra LS sedans 6-speaker CD audio system, intermittent wipers, cruise control, air conditioning, plus power windows and door locks (without remote), the GS-X adds a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, as well as distinct cloth seats and 'metal grain' accents for an up-market ambiance. If you're looking for leather you're out of luck. Just the same, the cloth seats can be manually adjusted for height and lumbar support, while tilt steering contributes to a comfortable driving position.
Convenience items such as a center armrest with dual compartments, dash-mounted CD bin, a roof-mounted sunglass case, coin holders, seat-side mesh 'what-have-you' holders and front-door map pockets with integrated cupholders make living with the GS-X easy.
With practical purposes in mind, the GS-X is easy to get both passengers and cargo in and out of, due respectively to wide rear door openings and a large rear hatch. Still, the hatchbacks lift-over could be lower. Behind the rear seats you'll find 328 L (11.6 cu ft) of cargo space, 11% more than the 4-door variants trunk. Fold the 60/40 split seats almost flat and 528 L (18.6 cu ft) is available. Why Kia didn't include an outside handle to unlatch the hatch is anyone's guess, but at least it can be 'popped' open with the key or remotely from the driver's position.
To rephrase what I said in the beginning of this review, like any other choice in life, choosing a new car comes down to priorities. In the case of the Spectra GS-X, it looks great, offers desirable features, is priced better than any of its competitors and offers the best warranty in the industry - all worthy attributes. Still, it's not quite up to its competitors build quality or performance. You decide.
Convenience items such as a center armrest with dual compartments, dash-mounted CD bin, a roof-mounted sunglass case, coin holders, seat-side mesh 'what-have-you' holders and front-door map pockets with integrated cupholders make living with the GS-X easy.
With practical purposes in mind, the GS-X is easy to get both passengers and cargo in and out of, due respectively to wide rear door openings and a large rear hatch. Still, the hatchbacks lift-over could be lower. Behind the rear seats you'll find 328 L (11.6 cu ft) of cargo space, 11% more than the 4-door variants trunk. Fold the 60/40 split seats almost flat and 528 L (18.6 cu ft) is available. Why Kia didn't include an outside handle to unlatch the hatch is anyone's guess, but at least it can be 'popped' open with the key or remotely from the driver's position.
To rephrase what I said in the beginning of this review, like any other choice in life, choosing a new car comes down to priorities. In the case of the Spectra GS-X, it looks great, offers desirable features, is priced better than any of its competitors and offers the best warranty in the industry - all worthy attributes. Still, it's not quite up to its competitors build quality or performance. You decide.