2010 Kia Spectra Review
Price
from: RM70,971
to: RM74,997
Installment
from: RM677/mth
to: RM715/mth
2010 Kia Spectra at a glance
The 2010 Kia Spectra makes for uncomplaining, painless transport being offered at an attractive price—a strategy that will net many buyers, no doubt. But for us, the distinctly average 2010 Kia Spectra has too little going for it.
2010 Kia Spectra quick specs
| Body Style | Sedan |
| Class | Mid-size Family |
| Assembled | - |
| Engine Range | - |
| Fuel Options | - |
| Seating Capacity | 5 |
2010 Kia Spectra ratings (overall rating : 2.5/5.0)
| Styling | |
| Handling | |
| Comfort | |
| Quality + Reliability | |
| Performance |
| Roominess | |
| Running Costs | |
| Value for Money | |
| Equipment | |
| Environment |
Styling
Calling the 2010 Kia Spectra bland is stating the obvious. This is a first-generation Korean car with equally dated looks to match. Many will see the 2010 Kia Spectra as uninteresting and boring, while some others will find it inoffensive but neat enough. The cabin design however looks surprisingly modern.
Handling
Safe and predictable, the 2010 Kia Spectra offers no more than point A to point B transportation, however. The driving dynamics are a long way off the pace set by class leaders; there is respectable grip, but the poor body control and the vague steering translate into minimal driving fun. In fact, most if not all rivals handle better.
Comfort
The 2010 Kia Spectra's soft suspension deals well with rough, uneven roads, as long as bigger bumps are not negotiated at speed, which will inevitably unsettle the ride. Cruising at 110 km/h is not an entirely peaceful process, largely because of the loud, gruff engine noise, but both wind and road noise are reasonably well-contained. Controls are sensibly laid out on the dashboard, and all-round visibility is good. The steering only adjusts for height, while the driver's seat offers height adjustments.
Quality + Reliability
The 2010 Kia Spectra shares an unenviable trait with many first-generation Kia and Hyundai models: the solid cabin assembly is marred by the use of sub-standard and often cheap-feeling materials. The underlying mechanicals have been in use for a number of years, and any problems should have been rooted out by now.
Performance
The 2010 Kia Spectra's drivetrain consists of a 1.6-litre DOHC CVVT engine mated to a four-speed automatic transmission with Sports Mode. The on-road performance is adequate, but the 1.6-litre engine is not flexible enough, and needs to be worked hard most of the time, which then brings out a rather harsh engine note. The dated four-speed automatic transmission is not that smooth or quick, either.
Roominess
The 2010 Kia Spectra provides decent room for four occupants and their luggage. Leg- and head-room for the front and rear are adequate, although class-leaders such as the Honda Civic and Nissan Sylphy come with noticeably more room. The boot is averagely-sized and can be further expanded via the 60:40 split-fold rear seats.
Running Costs
The fuel economy is respectable by 1.6-litre engine capacity standards. Maintenance and repair costs should be affordable, too. The biggest concern is however the depreciation, as the Kia Spectra retains mediocre resale values no thanks to the lacklustre Kia brand.
Value for Money
With distinctly average and sometimes below-average abilities, the 2010 Kia Spectra has little going for it except the small matter of pricing—it is priced way below all competition except the Proton Waja. Anyone looking for uncomplaining, painless transport at an attractive price will surely be tempted. But for us, the 2010 Kia Spectra does not cut the mustard, and we see no reason in recommending it.
Equipment
EX gets standard equipment such as air-conditioning, Radio/CD/MP3 audio system with USB & AUX input, 6 speakers, remote keyless entry system, central door locking, power windows, side mirrors with LED signal lamp, reverse sensors, fog lamps and 16" alloy wheels. Safety equipment includes ABS + EBD + BA, and dual front airbags. NOVUS adds leather seats, rain and light sensor, NAZA cool tint, door scuff plate and a set of body kit.
Environment
There is little surprise that the environment is not as high on Kia's list compared to Japanese or European automakers'. Like the rest of the 2010 Kia Spectra, the carbon dioxide emissions and fuel economy are both distinctly average by class standards.
Live Life Drive Verdict
Modern cabin design
Attractive pricing
Decent equipment
Dull to drive
Cheap-feeling cabin materials
1.6-litre engine is noisy and lacks grunt
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