Vehicle Overview
Kia’s Spectra5 hatchback, which is meant to attract younger buyers, is equipped with a sport-tuned suspension. A version of Kia’s Spectra sedan, the SX, features equipment that’s similar to the Spectra5; the Spectra sedan is listed separately in the Cars.com Research section. The Spectra5 competes with several models in a growing market of small hatchbacks. Notable competitors include the Toyota Matrix and Mazda3 hatchback.
New for 2009
The Spectra5 adds active head restraints that tilt forward in the event of a rear collision, greatly reducing the possibility of neck injury.
Exterior
The Spectra sedan and Spectra5 hatchback are similar in appearance. They’re both 68.3 inches wide, but the hatch is about 6 inches shorter at 171.3 inches long. The Spectra5 is about the same size as the Matrix, while the Mazda3 is a bit longer.
- 16-inch alloy wheels
- Body-colored mirrors, handles and bumpers
- Rear spoiler
- Automatic headlamps
- Power heated mirrors
- Optional power moonroof
Interior
The Spectra5 can seat up to five people. The hatchback has a folding backseat that can expand cargo volume beyond the basic 18.3 cubic feet to 52.8 cubic feet of cargo space. Passenger volume is 98 cubic feet, which makes the hatch slightly more spacious than the Mazda3 and Matrix.
- Leather-wrapped steering wheel and shifter
- Metal-finished trim and pedals
- Air conditioning
- Power windows and locks with remote keyless entry
- Optional six-disc CD changer
Under the Hood
Like the SX sedan, the Spectra5 gets a sport-tuned suspension.
- 138-horsepower, 2.0-liter inline-four with 136 pounds-feet of torque
- Standard five-speed manual transmission
- Optional four-speed automatic
Safety
Safety features include:
- Seat-mounted side-impact airbags
- Side curtain airbags
- Active head restraints
- Optional antilock braking system
