2008 Kia Spectra

Overview

The 2008 Kia Spectra remains largely unchanged and is available as a sedan in LX, EX, and sporty SX trim levels. It also offers a sporty 4-door hatchback called the Spectra5 SX. In 2007, the compact sedan received a new grille, bumper, deck lid, and some interior tweaks.

Power and Performance

Fitted with variable valve timing, all Spectra models get a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that creates 138 hp (132 hp in SULEV). A manual transmission is standard, and an automatic is optional on all. Spectra models also have a four-wheel-independent suspension and front and rear stabilizer bars. The Spectra SX sedan gets sport-tuned suspension with 16-inch wheels. Fuel efficiency with the 5-speed manual is 23/30 mpg (city/highway) and 24/32 mpg (city/highway) with the 4-speed automatic.

Body and Styling

The Spectra sedan has a sculpted appearance and aggressive looks. Large headlights flank the new black radiator grille that features chrome accents. Full-length body creases and a sleek body design add plenty of “attitude” blending with finely tuned performance and style. The Spectra sedan can seat five people, has front bucket seats, and a 60/40-split folding rear seat. Trunk space totals 12.2 cubic feet.

Safety Features

Available safety features include ABS, front side airbags, and curtain side airbags. All but LX include 4-wheel disc brakes, remote keyless entry, and power windows/locks/heated mirrors. Spectra has earned a Five Star Safety rating in frontal driver and passenger crash tests from the National Highway Safety Administration (NHTSA) and comes with a comprehensive 10 year/100,000 mile warranty program.