But I should mention that I wasn't only commissioned to drive to and from the airport. I took our Hungarian friends around town
to sightsee, and then to sightsee some more. I didn't mind driving the distance because 1), the Spectra is very comfy to sit in and 2), fuel economy is quite good; an estimated 9.5 L/100 km in the city and 6.6 L/100 km on the highway. When I needed to back up or parallel park I found visibility only decent, but then again OK for this class of car. The rear hatch is quite tall while the glass isn't very deep, plus the C-pillars are quite wide, all common traits of hatchbacks and wagons. Another characteristic that wasn't ideal and therefore could be improved upon was the tension, or lack thereof, in the Spectra5's steering wheel. Despite its responsiveness, I would have liked it to be a little stiffer, just enough so that it would feel more in tune with its rigid sport suspension.
But I'm quibbling over minor details. As I mentioned at the start of this review, the 2005 Spectra5 is a major improvement from the now deceased Spectra GSX. And with a base Spectra5 price starting at only $19,995, the Kia's sporty new 5-door entry definitely delivers a solid bang for the buck. I can't help but be impressed.
Specifications:
 |
| I can't help but be impressed, as the 2005 Spectra5 is a major improvement from the now deceased Spectra GSX. (Photo: Alexandra Straub, Canadian Auto Press) |
But I'm quibbling over minor details. As I mentioned at the start of this review, the 2005 Spectra5 is a major improvement from the now deceased Spectra GSX. And with a base Spectra5 price starting at only $19,995, the Kia's sporty new 5-door entry definitely delivers a solid bang for the buck. I can't help but be impressed.
Specifications:
- Price Range (MSRP): $19,995 - $22,590
- Body Type: 4-door sedan
- Layout: front engine, FWD
- Engine: 138 hp, 136 lb-ft of torque, 2.0-L, 16-valve, DOHC I-4
- Transmission: 5-spd man (opt 4-spd auto)
- Brakes (front/rear): disc/disc (optional ABS)
- Curb Weight: 1,290 (2,844 lbs)
- Seating Capacity: 5
- Cargo Volume (rear seats up): 518 L (18.3 cu ft)
- Fuel Economy (manual city/hwy): 9.5 / 6.6 L/100 km (30 / 43 mpg)
- Warranty (mo/km): 60/100,000 comprehensive
- Direct Competitors: Chevrolet Optra5 / Optra Wagon, Ford Focus ZX5 / Focus Wagon, Hyundai Elantra GT, Mazda3 Sport, Pontiac Vibe, Subaru Impreza Wagon, Suzuki Aerio Fastback, Toyota Matrix, VW Jetta Wagon
- Web Site: www.kia.ca
Article Gallery