For its class, the Kia handles marvelously, especially in the rain. Now that fall has encroached upon the West Coast, the typical
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| For its class, the Kia handles marvelously, partially thanks to its upgraded P205/50R16 all-season tires and 16-inch aluminum wheels. (Photo: Alexandra Straub, Canadian Auto Press) |
weather forecast includes rain with a chance of more rain. I am sometimes hesitant to push entry level sedans and hatchbacks in the damp conditions, but not the Kia. The upgraded P205/50R16 all-season tires and 16-inch aluminum wheels gripped the wet streets very well. Not once did the tires spin out and not once did I lose traction, even while taking corners at higher speeds. Speaking of speed, the latest generation Spectra came with a next generation engine; a 16-valve, DOHC, 2.0-liter 4-cylinder producing 138 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 136 lb-ft of torque at 4,500 rpm, increasing from 124 and 119 respectively. Accompanying the new engine is a standard 5-speed manual gearbox (an optional 4-speed automatic is also available). Shifting is smooth and operating the clutch light and easy.
The braking system in the Spectra5 is also commendable, being that it comes standard with front ventilated disc brakes and rear solid discs. Most entry level sedans and
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| The latest generation Spectra comes with a next generation engine; a 16-valve, DOHC, 2.0-liter 4-cylinder producing 138 horsepower. (Photo: Alexandra Straub, Canadian Auto Press |
hatchbacks typically offer only a front disc and rear drum setup, but not Kia. My test Spectra5 also came with the optional 'Package 1', which included a 4-sensor, 4-channel, 4-wheel anti-lock braking system (ABS) to further enhance what are already good brakes. Keeping in tune with the Spectra's now class-leading standards in
safety, even base cars come with six standard airbags, front seatbelt pretensioners and force limiters, 3-point seatbelts for all five seating positions, Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) and child safety door latches. That's a comforting thought.
