2008 Kia Spectra

Reviews for the 2008 Kia Spectra are limited, probably because the Spectra isn't a volume seller and hasn't seen a substantial redesign since the 2004 model year. We did find useful coverage for the 2008 Kia Spectra at Consumer Reports magazine and ConsumerGuide.com, however. ConsumerGuide.com's testing is the most current. Editors give most 2008 cars numerical ratings in a range of performance areas based on actual road tests, then compare those ratings against a class average. Their reviews are sometimes more difficult to interpret than those at Consumer Reports, though. Edmunds.com and CarCritic.com provide updated single-vehicle reviews for the 2008 Spectra, while MSN Autos offers a short capsule review.

Overall, reviews rate the 2008 Kia Spectra sedan and Spectra 5 hatchback as average for their class. The Spectra's affordable starting price and long warranty are its main assets, but a historically low resale value cancels out some of the savings in the long term. Handling, comfort and performance are all suitable but not outstanding. One source notes that the Spectra's weak 138-horsepower, 2.0-liter engine can make passing maneuvers difficult, and that engine noise is sometimes intrusive. The 2008 Kia Spectra falls short of class leaders such as the Honda Civic (*est. $14,800 to $23,250) and Honda Fit (*est. $13,950 to $16,070). For buyers with an eye on the bottom line, the Toyota Yaris (*est. $11,350 to $14,450) is considered a safe and reliable choice.