2003 Kia Spectra GSX review from North America
"Reliable and replete with value"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Very minor problems; a water seal around a headlight, a burned out light on a window switch, and the door lock switch is being replaced as a preventive matter.
General comments?
This car has been excellent, reliable transportation for my family. It is heavy for its class, so there is a small fuel penalty, but the ride is comfortable on the highway and handling around town is great. Our local dealer has been excellent and has treated us like royalty.
I put approximately 500 km a week on the car, and it has never stranded me. I will probably get a second set of tires for the winter, as the set it comes with have been fine through its first four seasons, but I felt the grip occasionally sliding a bit towards the end of the past winter. Otherwise, it sticks to the pavement like glue.
The hatchback carries a huge amount of stuff, and my teenager is comfortable in the back seat. The front seats are comfortable, even on a long trip, and entry and exit is easy.
This has been a great little car. I only wish Kia offered a diesel engine option in this country.
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| 2002 - Spectra LS 1.8L, DOHC 16v The best car I think I will ever own! |
| 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 litre gasoline Automatic |
| Performance marks | 9/10 |
| Reliability marks | 10/10 |
| Comfort marks | 10/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 8/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | |
| Distance when acquired | 0 kilometres |
| Most recent distance | 29300 kilometres |
| Previous car | Ford Windstar |
| Date of Entry | 3rd July, 2004 |