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I'm too young to remember the early years when Japan started to import post war products into the United States. Apparently the phrase "made in Japan" evoked thoughts of cheap reproductions lacking in imagination or quality. Sixty years later products made in Japan are known for innovations and quality. In addition to electronics, automobiles like Honda and Toyota did much to change the perception of an entire country. Kia and its Korean cousin Hyundai are clearly following the blueprint for success drawn by Honda and Toyota. The 1994 Kia Sephia debuted in the United States as a low cost economy car with a limited but new dealer and distribution chain. Early markets struggled with quality perceptions as the low cost vehicle was often marketed directly to low income and poor credit buyers. Yet what took Honda and Toyota decades to do has taken Kia and Hyundai less than ten years. Not that Kia and Hyundai have reached the same volume and status as Honda and Toyota, but Korea automobile manufacturers are on the fast track to changing perceptions. One important key to this growth was the 10 year / 100,000 mile warranty program. At a time when most cars are financed for five years but warranties only last three, Kia offers peace of mind in the form of Roadside Assistance for 5 years regardless of the miles and a basic warranty for 5 years / 60,000 miles. The most vulnerable and expensive component, the powertrain, is warranted for 10 years or 100,000 miles. Having a warranty that outlasts the payments is true peace of mind. For 2005 Kia offers consumers a choice of nine different models. The Sportage and Sorento are affordable but highly acclaimed sport utility vehicles. Growing families appreciate the 5-star rated Sedona minivan. Amanti is a surprisingly luxurious Premium Sedan while the Optima covers the mid-size sedan market. The most affordable car for Kia is the entry-level Rio available in either a four or five door model. For this week's test drive I drove the very well equipped Spectra compact 4-door sedan. The 2005 Spectra is also available as a sporty 5-door hatchback with sport tuned suspension. Available in three trim levels, LX, EX and SX, I drove the mid-range 2005 Kia Spectra EX priced under $15,000 as equipped. A very economical 2.0 Liter DOHC 4 cylinder engine uses continuously variable valve timing (CVVT) and multi-port injection to produce 138 horsepower and 135 lb. ft. torque. With the five-speed manual transmission this engine still sips only 25 MPG in the city and 32 MPG on the highway. Four wheel independent suspension combined with front and rear stabilizer bars give the 2005 Kia Spectra a comfortable yet well controlled ride. While four-wheel power disc brakes are standard, ABS is a $400 option that should be standard. With a commitment to safety, Kia equips every Spectra with six airbags including standard front and rear side curtain airbags. The 2005 Kia Spectra EX comes standard with air conditioner and offers other cool features above the base LX model such as remote entry, power locks and windows. AM/FM/CD with six speakers and door-mounted tweeters is standard on all models. The list of standard and optional equipment on the 2005 Kia Spectra will compete well with any vehicle in the class. Toyota and Honda may have already earned a quality reputation but Kia is building theirs with a quality product, great feature to price benefits and a longer warranty. Someday soon "Made in Korea" may be a status tag as well.
2005 Kia Spectra EX Compact Four Door Sedan 2.0 Liter DOHC Engine
Major Options:
MSRP as driven $14,890 25/32 EPA MPG Additional Web only Information and Resources For Additional Reviews: |
©2005 - Stan Risener