New Car Review of the 2005 Kia Spectra Compact Sedan

Description: Compact Sedan
Base MSRP Range: $12,700 - $15,970
Invoice Price Range: $12,005 - $14,955
Where built: South Korea

Kia rolled out a new rendition of the front-wheel-drive (FWD) Spectra late in 2004 as a shapely four-door sedan for the compact class with respectable power, noteworthy safety systems and price points honed to a competitive edge. It continues in 2005 with a new AM/FM/CD audio system added.

Trim nomenclature shows a base-level Spectra LX price leader and the deluxe EX edition with luxury gear aboard. Layout of the cabin appears conventional with two buckets up front and a bench for up to three riders in back, although personal space for heads and shoulders and legs is definitely not conventional for a car in the compact mold -- there's room to stretch out.

The equipment list on Spectra LX extends to power steering, a tachometer, rear folding seatback with 60/40 split and dual map lights. Spectra also exceeds convention for safety systems -- multi-stage frontal and side-impact air bags up front, curtain-style air bags for outboard seats in front and back, and four-wheel disc brakes.

Further, there's a strong engine aboard that displaces 2.0-liters and comes with continuously variable valve timing (CVVT). It produces 138-hp with a 5-speed manual transmission or optional 4-speed automatic.