2007 Kia Spectra Review

The 2007 Kia Spectra and Spectra5 offer a small car with plenty of driving pleasure. When pushed a bit harder, the Spectra reveals itself to be surprisingly nimble. Feedback through the steering wheel is impressive as well. Overall, the Spectra provides more than adequate handling for the compact family sedan segment, with no penalty in the ride department.

The base Spectra LX sedan starts at $12,895 with a five-speed manual transmission. The mid-level EX trim is available with a five-speed manual transmission, with an optional four-speed. The SX represents the top of the line, and can be had with either the manual or automatic transmission.

All Spectras come with a 2.0L four-cylinder engine that has double overhead camshafts featuring continuously variable valve timing and four valves per cylinder. This engine makes 138 horsepower at 6,000 rpms, and puts out 136 ft-lb of torque at 4,500 rpms. The Spectra's engine delivers a satisfactory feel, and with the easy-shifting five-speed manual, we were very pleased with the acceleration.

The LX is modestly equipped, though it does have some unusual standard items, such as automatic headlights and a tire pressure monitoring system. Of particular note is the fact that all Spectras come stocked with front, seat-mounted, and front and rear side curtain air bags.

The Spectra's center console gets high praise. It offers a nicely padded top that works well as an armrest. It is the more modern, dual-level design. But the cleverest feature is a small, sliding pass through from the top to the bottom. This is sized just perfectly to allow a 12-volt charger plug to pass from the top to the bottom and into the 12 volt receptacle inside the lower portion: a small but thoughtful touch.

The EX trim adds four-wheel disc brakes, heated power mirrors, power windows and locks, air conditioning, and remote keyless entry. The SX adds an extra bit of sport to the family sedan. Alloy wheels, fog lamps, and a number of exterior visual enhancements complement the tuned suspension that makes for a stiffer ride. The seats are covered in "sport cloth trim," and they offer very good support. The side bolsters do a decent job of holding you in place, yet they aren't so prominent that entry and exit were a problem. Metal pedals, cruise control, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel complete the package.

The Spectra5 is equipped in the same manner as the SX sedan, only with more cargo flexibility.

Notable options include air conditioning on the LX; alloy wheels, cruise control, and a rear spoiler on the EX; and ABS, a six-disc CD changer, and a power sunroof on the SX and Spectra5.
The 2007 Kia Spectra has few changes over the 2006 model, but the additions are handy ones. Added for the new year are a remote trunk release and an auxiliary power outlet. A tire pressure monitor is now standard, and the audio system features an input jack for portable digital media players. see less