Four-door hatchbacks have for all time been burning sellers in Asian and European markets, but American buyers have shunned the concept -- so much so that Ford left the five-door hatchback out of the Focus lineup. The Spectra's duplicitous drawing does a high-quality job of hiding the fact that it is indeed a four-door hatchback, and therein lies its appeal.
Two trim levels are accessible: GS and GSX. The sparsely equipped GS includes fabric upholstery, split-folding rear seat, cassette player, rear defroster and two-speed wipers. Optional equipment includes A/C, body-color side moldings, rear wiper/washer, floor mats and an automatic transmission. GSX adds alloy wheels, a rear spoiler, tape stripes and special fabric for a sporty look. It also provides power windows and locks, air conditioning and a tilt steering wheel. ABS, a CD player, cruise control and muscle windows are available only on GSX. Powered by a Sephia-derived 125-horsepower 1.8-liter DOHC four-cylinder engine and mated to a standard four-speed manual gearbox (a four-speed automatic is optional), the Spectra provides decent fuel economy (23 city and 29 highway) but lacks capable acceleration off idle and during passing maneuvers. Additionally, the raucous motor make an incessant whine at higher revs, which can grate on the driver's nerves.
The Spectra proves to be a experienced handler, exhibiting limited deceased roll and receptive steering. Cheap tires ruin the fun in the twisties. On the highway, the Spectra smoothes not in a few concrete irregularities however floats like a boat over highway expansion joints despite the Lotus-tuned suspension. Front disc/rear drum brakes are barely adequate, requiring lots of pedal pressure that results in mediocre stopping concert.
Firm front seats are logically contented, with a decent amount of lumbar and thigh support, and the simple layout of the dashboard and controls makes the Spectra easy to manipulate. Rear seat riders get minimal legroom, and the canted rear glass impedes valuable headroom. Interior materials are not the Spectra's strong suit with headliner, dash panel and seat fabric quality well below that of slightly extra luxurious competitors.
Higher-grade interior materials, along by means of an extra powerful engine and better brakes, would do wonders for this Kia's largely desirability. Still, you can't deny its substantial price and utility advantages over the competition. Plus, it looks good and sporty, thanks to aggressive styling in facade and the fastback-style rear window.
One extra incentive to consider the Spectra is Kia's new-for-2001 Long Haul Warranty Program, which consists of a 10-year/100,000-mile limited power train warranty, a 5-year/60,000-mile limited basic warranty, a 5-year/100,000-mile anti-perforation warranty (which protects against holes in the body caused by rust) and a 5-year/unlimited mileage roadside assistance plan. This impressive package should add a few peace of mind to Spectra ownership.
For first-time buyers and college students trying to survive on Top Ramen, as well as those who desire the utility that just a five-door hatchback can provide, the Spectra is worth a look. Others might want to consider shopping around, especially when Hyundai introduces the well-equipped and extra commanding five-door Elantra GT later this year.
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