2002 Kia Spectra LS review from Australia and New Zealand
"A low cost high performance 4 cyclinder which is very happy in city traffic"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
A small bracket pin on the CD mounting broke (partly my fault).
Gearbox vibrations cause the gearstick to rattle particularly when slowing/coasting in traffic.
Rear parcel trays and panel vibrations cause rattles and squeaks. This was reduced, but not eliminated by the dealer at the 10k service.
Paintwork is soft and scratches easily.
General comments?
The Spectra is quite nippy and can easily keep up with traffic (which is increasing speed with the numerous new zippy Mazda's and Toyota's etc. around these days).
I like the seating poisition and the dash layout. It is a low cost 4 cylinder with electric everything and a great CD system.
Body styling is good except for the front which looks too much like a Hyundai, because of the slenderness.
Recommended reviews
  | Will keep a KIA garage making money forever!! |
| Great little car for the driver who sees their car as an extension of themselves |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| First year of ownership | 2003 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2004 |
| Engine and transmission | 1.8 4 cylinder Manual |
| Performance marks | 8/10 |
| Reliability marks | 9/10 |
| Comfort marks | 7/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 6/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 7/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 23 kilometres |
| Most recent distance | 10300 kilometres |
| Previous car | Citroen Xantia |
| Date of Entry | 1st February, 2004 |