2008 Kia Spectra Review

FEATURES | 6 out of 10

Expert Quotes:

long list of standard features
Car and Driver

The audio system has an auxiliary jack
Cars.com

Kia Spectra represents a laudable blend of...features
ConsumerGuide

The 2008 Kia Spectra’s features list omits some newer features found on other compact cars, but the basics are available in its three trim levels.

According to Cars.com, "trim levels include the base LX, uplevel EX and sport-tuned SX." Standard equipment on all versions include an AM/FM/CD stereo with an auxiliary audio input jack.

Car and Driver says "rounding out the long list of standard features" on the Kia Spectra "are an adjustable steering wheel, a CD stereo with six speakers, a 60/40 split-folding rear seat, and variable intermittent wipers." Audiophiles will be happy with the Cars.com report that the Kia Spectra's "audio system has an auxiliary jack for iPods or other MP3 players, and a six-CD changer is optional on the Spectra SX."

According to Cars.com, "extra features in the SX sedan include a perforated leather-wrapped steering wheel and gearshift knob, aluminum pedals and metal-finish trim." ConsumerGuide reports that the 2008 Kia Spectra "EX adds air conditioning; fog lights; and power windows, door locks, and mirrors, the latter heated."

Remote start is also offered on the 2008 Kia Spectra, but neither a Bluetooth hands-free system nor satellite radio are available.

Conclusion

The 2008 Kia Spectra has the usual features and options, but cell phone talkers are left without a signal—as are satellite-radio fans.


Read More of this Review:

  1. Styling
  2. Performance
  3. Quality
  4. Safety
  5. Features

Other Choices:

    The Kia Spectra's low-priced base model and long warranty are especially attractive, but there are better choices. Many of the rival models in this segment have been redesigned more recently than the Spectra's design, which now goes back to 2004. Although the Elantra shares its engine with the 2008 Kia Spectra, its interior is better designed, and the instrument panel and switchgear feel a step better. The Mazda3 is the choice among these cars if a frisky driving sensation is a priority, although the Mazda's cabin can be noisy on coarse surfaces and its backseat is rather cramped. The Corolla is also quite dated and due for a redesign for 2009; it has a ride that's about as soft and compliant as the Spectra's and an interior that seems rather cheap and dull, but it has a long-standing reputation for reliability and durability. The new Ford Focus is perhaps the most attractive alternative; it was thoroughly refreshed in design, inside and out, this year and offers a great ride along with standout features such as the SYNC communications and entertainment interface.

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See the Kia Spectra in Other Years:

2009 | 2008 | 2007 | 2006 | 2005 | 2004 | 2003 | 2002 | 2001 | 2000

Comments (1 total)

  1. KIA SPECTRA GAS TANK PROBLEM

    By Charlie Bell | Posted: Dec 8th 2008, 05:26:30 PM

    I have never had this problem with any vehicle, but apparently overfilling a kia spectra gas tank can cause around $450 in non warranty damage. I new overfilling can be a safety issue, but I only overfill ocationally to round to the nearest dollar not to get every last drop in the tank. Kia gives no warning of possible mechanical damage, so beware.

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