Description: Compact Sedan
Base MSRP Range: $14,300 - $16,600
Invoice Price Range: $13,390 - $15,550
Where built: South Korea
Spectra is a shapely four-door sedan for the compact class stocking a respectable powerplant with FWD traction, noteworthy standard safety systems and value-packed price points honed to a competitive edge.
For 2006, Spectra's trim nomenclature changes with the deletion of entry-level Spectra LX and the extension of deluxe EX plus sporty SX trims. Layout of the cabin in Spectra seems conventional with two buckets up front and a bench for three in back, although personal space is definitely not conventional for a car in the compact mold -- there's ample room to stretch. Spectra also exceeds convention for safety systems -- multi-stage frontal and side-impact air bags up front, plus curtain-style air bags for outboard seats in front and back.
Good power stems from a 2.0-liter four-pack with continuously variable valve timing (CVVT). It produces 138 hp with a five-speed manual transmission or optional new four-speed automatic.
Kia out of South Korea constructs value-priced vehicles in a diverse line extending from economical small cars like Rio to premium luxury sedans such as Amanti, plus multiple wagons including Sedona the minivan and sport-utility vehicles with Sorento and Sportage. Look for a new generation of designs for Rio and Sedona coming to Kia's 2006 collection.