2005 Kia Spectra5 Preview

What's more, like the sedan the Spectra5 delivers what Kia claims as best-in-class passenger volume at 2,778 liters (98.1

Although sporty, the wagon-like 5-door Spectra5 doesn't compromise practicality. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

cubic feet), larger than the aforementioned Mazda3 Sport, Ford Focus ZX5 and Toyota Matrix.

All that interior volume makes for optimal sound quality, so expect the standard 6-speaker AM/FM/CD audio system to perform well. Other top-tier standard features include air conditioning, power windows, power door locks with remote keyless entry, power heated outside mirrors, a rear wiper/washer, plus a height-adjustable steering column.

While the younger audience Kia is targeting doesn't spend as much energy worrying about safety issues than us old folks,

The Spectra5 gets the same gutsy 138-hp 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine as the sedan. (Photo: Kia Canada)

on average at least, Kia hasn't forgotten to include such features in its new Spectra5 which should appease a few parents. Along with the expected dual front airbags, front seat-mounted side impact airbags and side-curtain airbags are included as standard equipment, making a total of six. Front seatbelt pretensioners and force limiters are also part of the package. The 5 also features standard 4-wheel disc brakes, while 4-sensor, 4-channel ABS is optional.

The Spectra5 gets the same gutsy 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine as the sedan, once again making 138 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 136 lb-ft of torque at 4,500 rpm. It's a sophisticated piece of machinery, featuring 16-valves, dual-overhead cams, multi-port fuel injection and continuously variable valve timing (CVVT).