2001 Kia Spectra Review
Fuel Economy
24 mpg
Summary
What Edmunds.com says
The Spectra will never be called a great car, but for some, it might prove to be a good bargain.
Pros
Low base price, responsive steering and nimble handling, hatchback configuration, killer warranty.
Cons
Lackluster engine performance, cheap interior materials, dearth of refinement, Kia's initial poor quality reputation.
What's New for 2001
2001 sees few changes to Kia's sporty five-door hatchback, which was introduced last year to attract younger customers to the brand. The top-rung GSX trim level gets a gas-cap tether, coin holder and dual visor vanity mirrors. Kia's Long Haul Warranty Program has also been introduced for this model year.
Consumer Ratings & Reviews
242,500 Still going strong!!!!!
Overall Rating
| Performance: | 7 | Fun-to-Drive: | 7 | Build Quality: | 8 |
| Comfort: | 7 | Interior Design: | 8 | Reliability: | 9 |
| Fuel Economy: | 9 | Exterior Design: | 7 | ||
Vehicle
2001 Kia Spectra GS 4dr Hatchback (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
Review
I guess This says it all.
Favorite Features
Longevity
Suggested Improvements
Not much
Kia, Kia, Kia
Overall Rating
| Performance: | 2 | Fun-to-Drive: | 5 | Build Quality: | 3 |
| Comfort: | 2 | Interior Design: | 1 | Reliability: | 3 |
| Fuel Economy: | 10 | Exterior Design: | 1 | ||
Vehicle
2001 Kia Spectra GS 4dr Hatchback (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
Review
I have had it time in and time out with this car. I have had to replace the complete make up of the rear brakes, the battery, the rear break lights several times (not because i leave lights on) compressor, starter, plugs, the right axle. Yes when i go up a hill i have to turn air conditioner off. haha Very loud when I'm trying to go fast, people think I'm angry, when I'm in a hurry. The dash board has completed folded because of the sun! WONDERFUL!!
Favorite Features
hatchback! I can fit a wing back chair in my car!
Suggested Improvements
ummm. where to start?
Worth every penny
Overall Rating
| Performance: | 9 | Fun-to-Drive: | 9 | Build Quality: | 9 |
| Comfort: | 9 | Interior Design: | 9 | Reliability: | 10 |
| Fuel Economy: | 8 | Exterior Design: | 5 | ||
Vehicle
2001 Kia Spectra GSX 4dr Hatchback (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
Review
I bought mine new in 2001 and I've put a little over 70,000 miles on it. It's paid off and now I'm really getting my money out of it. It's still running great and drives as good as 2 other new cars I've recently test driven. I have done all the recommended maintenance and it's still running like a top. I had only minor warranty repairs done and have no complaints. I've been looking for a used higher end KIA like the optima to purchase but I think everyone knows how great these cars are they aren't trading them in so there are none available in my area. Can you say watch out Honda someones coming up quickly behind you and their price is better?
Favorite Features
Suggested Improvements
2001 Spectra GS
Overall Rating
| Performance: | 8 | Fun-to-Drive: | 9 | Build Quality: | 7 |
| Comfort: | 8 | Interior Design: | 7 | Reliability: | 8 |
| Fuel Economy: | 7 | Exterior Design: | 9 | ||
Vehicle
2001 Kia Spectra GS 4dr Hatchback (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
Review
Other than normal wear parts like brake pads, I've had problems with the motor mounts (4 of them) and the upper power steering hose. It has good fuel economy, about 22 mpg city and very good handling, especially when you upgrade the wheels to 15" and sport tires.
Favorite Features
Good exterior looks, nice handling, excellent A/C, nice interior space.
Suggested Improvements
Better materials for dashboard (warped) and stronger cloth for upholstery.
I hate my Kia
Overall Rating
| Performance: | 3 | Fun-to-Drive: | 1 | Build Quality: | 5 |
| Comfort: | 2 | Interior Design: | 1 | Reliability: | 2 |
| Fuel Economy: | 1 | Exterior Design: | 4 | ||
Vehicle
2001 Kia Spectra GS 4dr Hatchback (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
Review
I have had many problems with the engine begining with the loud noises it makes & a/c and radio malfunctions. The plastic pieces of the vehicle are always breaking off such as those that recline the seat,open the trunk and gas,and a/c vents.Ancira, the dealership where I purchased my Kia, is not very efficient when it comes to fixing it. So the warranty Kia always raves about really means nothing to me.Within the first year of owning my new Kia Spectra, the tires and brakes had to be replaced, and since they are considered maintanence parts, they were not covered by the warranty. This car has been a headache from day one.
Favorite Features
NONE
Suggested Improvements
I would suggest that the service be improved, as well as all the other minor things.
5 out 5 people found this review helpful
View Pricing for Other Years
Research the 2001 Kia Spectra
Buying & Selling
Vehicle Details
Multimedia
Ratings & Reviews
- Model Review
- Road Test Ratings
- Road Test Reviews
- Consumer Reviews
- Awards History
- Reliability
- Consumer Discussions
Payment Calculators
Helpful Tools
