3-day long-term test drive: Kia Spectra LX Convenience A/T
Price as tested: CDN$19395
Total mileage through the test: 350km

When Kia introduced the 2nd generation Spectra 3 years ago, it was a remarkable improvement over its original iteration. We had a chance to put the facelifted 2nd generation Spectra into a long-term test.

Other than the minor styling and trim revisions, the facelifted is basically the same car as the one we drove back in 2004. It has the same 2.0 liter 16-valve 4-cylinder, 138hp and 136 lb/ft of torque. In terms of performance, its definitely not class-leading nor the best in refinement. But this little Kia got its job done relatively well. However, its 4-speed automatic always hurt between 2nd and 3rd gear. We also found the lack of detent between Drive and 3rd gear annoying, because you can easily slip from D to 3rd, while hurting fuel economy. As for fuel economy, we averaged 8.9L/100km 70% city/30% highway. Which, once again, nothing special consider this fuel consumption has reached mid-size family sedan territory.

The handling is competent. Its the ride quality that we most appreciate in the Spectra. It absorbs all the roughness and patholes that defined Vancouver roads. Although it doesn’t have Elantra’s supple riding quality, its ride comfort has to be rated as one of the better ones in the econocar segment. Due to Spectra’s softly sprung natural, there are plenty of body rolls and understeer is quite significant when pushed. Steering feel and precision are competent.

The velour seats are comfortable. Although the layout isn’t as breathtaking as Civic nor as classy as Mazda3, it got its job done well. The air conditioner is cold, I meant freezingly cold. All the switchgears have a tactical, high-quality touch and feel. The pet peeves are minor. Stereo buttons are tiny despite of the use of a knob for volume. The digital clock on the center console tends to wash out during sunlight.

With the introduction of the new Elantra from Kia’s parent company, Hyundai. The Spectra will remained an underdog in this competitive segment. Its a car that does everything well but nothing outstandingly. Mazda3 has awesome handling dynamics, Honda Civic got groundbreaking styling, Corolla always got the Toyota cachet despite its the eldest in its group. On the other side, new Lancer and Elantra are the newest kids on the blocks that provide exceptional value. On the one hand, Lancer has nice dynamics and Elantra provides superb comfort. Spectra will always be remain something in the middle. Its in the middle of the lifecycle that is better than 2 newcomers, Nissan’s craptacular Sentra and Versa. And that is about it.