2008 Kia Spectra5 LX Convenience Review

In comparison, here are the other 5-door compacts with automatic transmissions that measure up to this Kia:

Chevrolet HHR LS, 149 hp, $21,115
Dodge Caliber SRT, 158 hp, $19,345
Hyundai Elantra Touring (2009), 141 hp (not on sale yet)
Mazda3 Sport GX with options, 148 hp, $21,190
Pontiac Vibe SE (2009), 132 hp, $20,220
Saturn Astra XE 5-door with A/C, 138 hp, $20,400
Subaru Impreza 2.5i 5-door, 170 hp, $22,695
Suzuki SX4 JX, 143 hp, $19,795
Toyota Matrix (2009) with B package, 132 hp, $19,190
Volkswagen City Golf with options, 115 hp, $19,225
Volkswagen Rabbit 2.5 5-door, 170 hp, $22,375

Conclusion
As such, the Spectra5 drives well, and for the average compact-car buyer, it does the job without fuss. It's cute, comfortable and provides decent fuel economy.

Overall, it's a cute car, with front fender bulges that sweep upwards and finish off above the taillights.

But the competition has improved a lot since 2005, while the Kia hasn't. Launching a bunch of new models at the same time is hot news, but if you don't keep them fresh, they quickly lose interest. Other manufacturers are gaining speed while Kia is stuck in neutral. The new Vibe and Matrix twins are similarly-priced and more refined, and the more-dynamic 3 Sport is within $1,300.

A redesign or a round of changes is in order to give the Spectra5 a fighting chance. Until then, Kia should think about reducing the price of their car.
photo:Michel Deslauriers