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Used 2006 Kia Spectra Consumer Reviews

4.7 out of 5 stars
115 reviews

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5 out of 5 stars

love my Spectra

Aneisha loves spectr, 06/14/2006
2006 Kia Spectra EX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I LOVE MY SPECTRA! This is an excellent car. I looked at Honda, Toyota, Nissan, and Scion and they are all okay but don't compare to Kia. I chose the Polar Ice Blue and get stopped all the time and no one believes my car is a Kia. The gas mileage is excellent and it is so fun to drive. I leave my house earlier for work so that I can take the scenic route.

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4.38 out of 5 stars

Great car

Coty2000, 08/14/2010
2006 Kia Spectra EX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Travel 50 miles each way with this roller skate. Absolutely reliable! Not a thing wrong in 3 years and 72,000. Change the oil 3500 and put gas in it and away you go. Have a 2994 sorento as well. Another great car. 82k and not a thing wrong, ever. Also have a 2006 Audi a4. Forgetaboutit! Never again!

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4.75 out of 5 stars

LOVE my Spectra!

Mrs Orlando Bloom, 08/02/2006
2006 Kia Spectra SX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I've had my Spectra for about 3 weeks an I LOVE IT! Gas mileage is good, could get better, but sufficient for as far as I travel. It's fun looking and sporty, lots of room for a little car. It's great around corners, and handles great. Engine takes a little bit to kick in, but it's not like I'm in a race either. When it does kick in, it's got great get-up-and-go speed. Smooth riding, and very comfortable. I'm very happy with my purchase, and would recommend it to anyone who doesn't want to spend a lot, but wants to get great gas mileage and a fun, sporty ride, with a great sunroof to boot.

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5 out of 5 stars

Sporty Fun on a Budget

GorgeKiaDriver, 02/09/2008
2006 Kia Spectra SX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

We bought this new. This is a sporty looking car with the rear spoiler and 16" sporty wheels with low profile performance tires. With the SX you get all this plus cruise, aluminum accents on dash and chrome pedal covers. Interior is an upgrade also. Cruise control standard. Only option was ABS which I would recommend to everyone. This is great on snowy roads and accident avoidance. Best mileage we have gotten is 28 with the automatic,

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5 out of 5 stars

Kia Spectra 5 - a serious competitor

Jim G, 08/12/2006
2006 Kia Spectra Spectra5 4dr Wagon (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

One of my first trips was from Atlanta to Charleston SC. Five + hours on the road and still comfortable (I'm 6'2"). The ride included some quick maneuvers and high speeds (80 plus to keep up with traffic). Engine power & response were great, even with the AC on. I averaged 33MPG highway! The versatility of being able to flip the seats gives it SUV versatility. The fit & finish are great. More room & power than a Matrix, at a much lower price. With the price of gas, this style car should be seriously considered.

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5 out of 5 stars

Wow

james e gerber, 07/23/2006
2006 Kia Spectra EX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

This is my 3rd Kia. The 2006 was a quantum leap over my 2003. The first thing that impressed me was that the controls were all in one place on the driver's console with easy to use buttons. Second the acceleration was a significant upgrade-you can run the air without decreasing performance, a problem with most 4 cylinder cars. Thirdly was the size; it's larger than my 2003 and the overall design is exceptional. The tires (Goodyear) are a significant upgrade on the quality tire that Kia used to use as OEM tires. Overall, an impressive job and the car is fun to drive. Oh yes, the trunk space is very good. My 2001 Sephia was ok, the 2003 Spectra was much better and now this. Kia keep up the good work.

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5 out of 5 stars

My best car yet.

williametc, 12/08/2010
2006 Kia Spectra SX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I bought this car certified pre owned in august of 2009 and I loved everything about it. I bought it to replace my 99' GMC jimmy which honestly, I drove to hell and back. The spectra went right along with me as well; it was reliable, comfortable, and quick. Albeit, I only owned this car for a little over a year not once did anything go wrong with it. I am a 20 something guy, you can imagine how I drove this car and it held up every mile. It held all of my friend comfortably and the sound system was plenty loud enough for even myself. When someone eventually plowed right into me I came out only jostled and a few bruises, the car held up a lot better than you would think a KIA would.

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4.75 out of 5 stars

It's a Wonderful Car

Jon the Dude, 10/21/2005
2006 Kia Spectra EX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Ok, so for right around $16,000 you're getting a car that's got six standard airbags, CD, cruise control and power everything. Also, the ride at freeway speeds is nearly silent. Also, it's so spacious in the front and back seats (I'm 6' with plenty of clearance) that it feels almost cavernous. And to top it off, the warranty is the best in the business. What's not to love?

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4.75 out of 5 stars

Great little car

Jim, 05/10/2006
2006 Kia Spectra EX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

For the price it is simply the best package of performance, cost to own, and reliability. Got to love the KIA 10 year warranty. I've put about 1200 miles on it so far and it rides like a dream. Lots of interior room, and very comfortable seating. It has poor acceleration, so its performance isn't the best. Like someone else said, it revs REALLY high in first gear. I've seen stuff on eBay that is supposed to fix this. All in all a great car and a worthy investment. I will definitely be back to KIA for more in the future.

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4.63 out of 5 stars

Great Car For The Price

Dan, 03/05/2009
2006 Kia Spectra EX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I bought this new for $12,900 and I must say it has been an excellent, dependable car. Roomy interior, large easy to read controls, great access to the engine, I average 24 MPG city and 34 MPG highway. 10 year 100,000 mile drive train warranty, would buy another in a heartbeat.

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5 out of 5 stars

road trip with a brand new car

trish, 11/18/2006
2006 Kia Spectra Spectra5 4dr Wagon (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I just bought my Spectra 5 a week before taking it on a 2,000 mile road trip. I am 5'3", my husband is 6'3". Surprise, he loves it as much as I do; he wasn't cramped and I wasn't wore out after driving it for 2 days and 1,000 miles on the return trip. Had no problem with acceleration through the mountains or keeping up with traffic and passing on the highway. Fuel economy was fantastic, almost 39 miles to the gallon. So far there is nothing i don't love about my new car.

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4 out of 5 stars

WATCH OUT TOYOTA!

FASV, 11/21/2005
2006 Kia Spectra EX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I got mine in 2004. So far I have convinced a neighbor and a friend to buy this car after they drove mine in a test drive. Minor problems with closing the trunk (it had to be slammed really hard). Gas door got stuck and front wheels were misaligned; all fixed by dealer under the 12000 miles adjustment period. So far all O.K. after a year of use.The ride is very quiet at freeway speeds but the engine is noisy under hard acceleration. A/C OK but should be more powerful for sunny Florida blazing and suffocating summers. If this car lasts me at least 5 years without major problems I think I will become a Kia loyal!

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4.63 out of 5 stars

Yes, The power to surprise

EMT4U, 12/21/2006
2006 Kia Spectra EX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

With fuel over $3.00, I wanted to trade in my fuel hog for a small sedan. I drove Toyota, Honda, Chevrolet and Ford small sedans. The Kia is equal in build quality and driving impression to cars costing 3k to 4k more. Loaded with six airbags and plenty of space for not feeling confined this is an more than adequate car. The four cylinder is quiet until pushed hard, and the car accelerates quickly and is able to hold it's own at highway speeds. Strong 4-wheel disc brakes. I don't have ABS. But I feel that a brake pedal falling to the floor and pulsing can take longer to stop than controlled lock-up. This Kia has smart handling and many standard options. Decent sound system and easy controls.

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2.25 out of 5 stars

2006 Kia Spectra 4dr Sedan

PPower05, 06/13/2008
2006 Kia Spectra EX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I am not very happy with this car. I only have 21,000 miles, and it has already been in the shop for faulty fuel valves and transmission problems!! What's worse, the dealership charged me over $300 to replace the transmission fluid that KIA recommends to replace every 30,000 miles (10,000 prior to when it SHOULD have been replaced) The explanation that I was given was "Kia uses poor fluids from the factory". The 100,000 mile warranty is great, if you have another car! My first KIA (same model) broke down as my family was driving to my high school graduation. My family missed my graduation being at the KIA service center. Get something else, these are not worth your hard earned money!

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4.75 out of 5 stars

My Kia

Mark, 01/10/2007
2006 Kia Spectra EX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I have had this Spectra 2 weeks now and have my ideas down. This is a very well built vehicle, but being a stockier guy, the seats seem kind of narrow. If I am not sitting exactly square in the seat, it feels small. The car has enough pep for around town driving and runs well at highway speeds. Not much in the way of passing speeds, but it holds 70+ easily on the road. I am slightly concerned about the texture of the paint on the sides, it looks like maybe it has orange peel, but the dealership is going to check it out. Also having issues with the passenger seat airbag switch not always turning the airbag on.

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1.88 out of 5 stars

Kia You get what you pay for!

Nerveragain, 06/05/2009
2006 Kia Spectra SX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

We bought the car new and got the rear spoiler with it. It was easy to drive around town but a death trap on the interstate. Road noise is very loud and the motor sounds like it is going to explode at any speeds over 65 mph. We have had a poping noise coming from the front of the car and had it at the dealership several times for this issue but the prolem is still there and they have yet to fix it. If I lived in town and only drove in town this would be a good car, but on any other road where the speed limit is 45 or greater it is not worth the money. The new feeling of this car faded very fast. I should have spent the extra $2000 and bought a quality car.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Kia Spectra 2006

dan, 02/05/2006
2006 Kia Spectra EX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

This car is a huge step from the Geo we had to buy in the 90s for a cheap car. This car comes standard with all the options a person needs; power windows, door locks, air conditioning. keyless entry, cd player. All the air bags you need. Four wheel disc brakes, 15 inch wheels. I can go on and on. You give me one American car under $15,500 with all those options. YOU WILL NOT FIND ONE. Oh I forgot to mention the 10 year, 100000 mile warranty on this thing. And the room in the back seat; it has the largest back seat of any small car I've owned. The motor is a 2.0 liter 16 valve four cylinder. That's more motor than a standard Toyota Camry. This is by far the best deal I have ever had on a new car.

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4.75 out of 5 stars

Spectra-Best value for your dollar.

hickenb, 01/13/2007
2006 Kia Spectra EX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Being an ex GM new car dealer for many years and an old Packard-Studebaker dealer along with a Quality used car dealer, I feel I am qualified to be a fair judge of quality and value for the dollar. This is my third Kia. My present Kia has 11,000 miles, has had no reason to even go in for any warranty or even an adjustment for any reason. One of the few of the many new cars I have owned since retirement that this is true of. Just test one out.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Better then a used car...

david, 03/05/2007
2006 Kia Spectra Spectra5 4dr Wagon (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I only have the car three weeks - much too early for complete honest report but so far I am extremely happy with the car, especially when I pull into the gas station and fill up. Average fuel economy is about 34mpg. I think it's a much better alternative to a used car you know nothing about. I did all my research on Edmunds and got even a lower price then I expected. $15,000.00 - that includes sun roof and abs. I got it in red and that includes tax and tags. If you're looking for a car that rides like your 1970 Olds 98 forget it but I would have no problem taking the car on a long trip. The seats are comfortable. I am impressed so far. No negative comments right now but stay tuned.

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4.63 out of 5 stars

great sporty car for the money

Favian, 05/19/2006
2006 Kia Spectra Spectra5 4dr Wagon (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

This is my first Kia that I have ever purchased and I'm pleasantly impressed. Build quality is great and so far reliability is excellent. The gearing configuration in the automatic could use some improvement as well but overall the car is an excellent value in looks, safety, options, warranty and reliability.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Pleasantly Surprised

DesertRose, 04/27/2007
2006 Kia Spectra SX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

No longer had need for a 4WD & rising gas prices caused me to switch to an econo car. Was very pleasantly surprised when I saw the Spectra up close, I expected a cheapy econobox but we were impressed w/the styling and quality. The most comfy seats ever for my low back. Just bought w/3300 mi on it so it's too soon to comment on reliability but thus far I am very impressed.

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4.75 out of 5 stars

Love my Kia

Weasley, 05/14/2007
2006 Kia Spectra EX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I rented a Kia Spectra in 2005 and enjoyed the vehicle so much, I bought one in 2006. For the price, it is a comfortable ride, looks great from the ouside, but I bought it for the safety features. As an urban traveler everyday it is just a matter of time. The light interior I purchased is not the best, but that is not why I bought the car. I am petite, but passengers are not and the cabin fits us all, short trips and long. I want to drive the wheels off this, but if I need another car I will purchase another one.

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4 out of 5 stars

Cute But

Margie, 08/20/2008
2006 Kia Spectra Spectra5 4dr Wagon (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

The car handles nicely and has great acceleration. It has great leg room for passengers in the back seats as long as the front seats are not all the way back. You can pack a lot of items in the back and with the seats down it's even better.

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4.38 out of 5 stars

Well I bought one!

Michael, 01/04/2009
2006 Kia Spectra EX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Well I bought my car brand new. I even peeled the plastic off the seats, and body. I tested it for 6 miles and said yes. I traded in my 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse GS, which yes I do miss. But I have to say that I had more problems with the eclipse than I ever did with my Spectra. It's not the sportiest or fastest car I've ever owned, but I added a set of Autolite platinum plugs and a APC intake. so instead of that measly 138 standard horses I got about 145. Every once in a while I can get that good grip to spin those tires from a dead stop. I have more plan in the performance center, like that stage 2 turbo kit that I found on the net. A 300HP+ Kia Spectra is what I want. Hello Kia?

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5 out of 5 stars

Great buy!

Jesse, 06/25/2009
2006 Kia Spectra EX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I recently purchased a Kia Spectra after reading good reviews on the car and I have not been disappointed. I commute over 100 miles per day for work and (over 90%) hwy driving) and this car gives exceptional mileage. I have a large Dodge truck so I needed something fuel efficient and comfortable and this car does not disappoint. The build quality is really high and the materials feel as high quality as a Toyota Corolla or Honda Civit (and a step above a Mazda 3) I would recommend anyone to purchase this car. You will not be disappointed.

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5 out of 5 stars

Excellent car

Shahed, 05/21/2006
2006 Kia Spectra Spectra5 4dr Wagon (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Better than any of its class. Warranty is best. Why worry if you are backed by KIA. Lot better than Corolla or Honda. Low price compared to options you are getting. Nowhere can you find the safety or this class.

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4.75 out of 5 stars

Great car!

Carl, 09/20/2007
2006 Kia Spectra EX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Haven't had the car long, but so far I'm impressed. It rides nicely and seems to have good handling. It has nice pickup, but shakes ever so slightly sometimes at a stop light. (Not always, but sometimes. Not sure if it's a design flaw or not.) So far, I think I'd buy another one. Got away from the Fords because of their poor gas mileage. Wanted to go with American, but few have good mpg and are cheap enough to afford.

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5 out of 5 stars

Dale's Review

Leroy, 10/27/2005
2006 Kia Spectra Spectra5 4dr Wagon (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Was rated 34 miles to gallon highway; is getting 33-34. It hauled 3 people and luggage for 13 day vacation to Colorado. Everyone rode comfortably; no difference in performance between mountains of Colorado and the Missouri highways it normally travels. Car is quiet and fun to drive.

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5 out of 5 stars

Smart 1st time purchase!

happyasaclam, 12/25/2006
2006 Kia Spectra EX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I purchased my car new, as a treat to myself, and it was a smart decision. The Kia looks and feels like a higher-end car. The low cost makes buying a new car accessible to people new to car buying. The warranty is just an added bonus that leaves you feeling very secure about future problems that will eventually arise as your car gets older.

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4.13 out of 5 stars

Surprising

Jordan, 01/25/2006
2006 Kia Spectra EX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I bought the Kia Spectra after owning a Hyundai Elantra for several years. I wanted something sportier and the Spectra certainly provides that. The EX is zippy for a 4 cylinder and still maintains good fuel economy. Much better gas mileage then my Elantra. Handling is very nice and tight. Stops on a dime due to 4 wheel disk brakes. Also, it's the only car in the price range with 5 front air bags so I feel safer driving it. Kia is now coming out with performance after market parts for the Spectra and Rio as well. I got the body kit and wing installed and my car gets a lot of attention with them on. Overall you get a lot of features and a lot of bang for your buck. Surprisingly good value.

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4.5 out of 5 stars

Vastly underestimated car, I think.

Stan, 12/27/2008
2006 Kia Spectra EX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I bought my 2006 Spectra in May 2008 with 28000 miles on it, so have driven it six months and roughly 4000 miles thus far. Overall I have been impressed with the car's quietness, acceleration and ride, and have had absolutely no problems. My only quibble would be the fuel economy which does tend to run 22 mpg in city driving and 30 mpg on the hwy. I had hoped the city mpg would be a bit better. But overall I am very satisfied and if the car holds up this well over the next couple of years I will probably buy another Kia.

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5 out of 5 stars

Fun and Economical Hatchback

Cheongyei, 03/07/2007
2006 Kia Spectra Spectra5 4dr Wagon (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I had looked at the new Dodge Caliber and the PT Cruiser, but found the Spectra5 to be superior in every category: fit, finish, fun, fuel economy, warranty, handling, standard features. The 5 has a sporty suspension with extra low-profile tires, alloy wheels, front and rear sway bars. Tight turning radius, no problem taking tight corners. Point it where you want it, and it goes. The nicest handling small car I've owned, and I have had Toyotas, Hondas, Audis, Capris, Neons. Kia has improved the appearance of the interior for 2007, and fixed the too-low front air dam as well, so the two biggest problems of 2006 are now history. If you are looking for the right 2007 hatch, try the Spectra5.

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4.75 out of 5 stars

First Car I Bought

Kasie, 07/27/2007
2006 Kia Spectra EX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

This was the very first I have bought and I must say I have been extremely pleased. I am even considering another Kia for my next car.

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4.63 out of 5 stars

Pleasantly Surprised

Pleasantly Surprised, 04/24/2007
2006 Kia Spectra Spectra5 4dr Wagon (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I was super impressed with this car. I always swore I would never drive a 4 cylinder. Well when gas prices began to rise I changed my mind. In the past couple of years I've owned a 2004 Grand Prix GT, a 2005 Malibu,and a 2006 Amanti. I traded my Amanti for the Spectra due to gas mileage. It is so much fun to drive and it has a lot more pep than I would have thought. I also have to say something for Kia because neither my Amanti nor my spectra had or have been in for any warranty work.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

It's money in your wallet

Blackstealth, 07/23/2006
2006 Kia Spectra Spectra5 4dr Wagon (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I bought a 2006 Kia Spectra manual, ABS, sunroof, black. For a foreign car it's great. Of course it is small but everything else is great. This car is the greatest on turns buta little slow on the go. The dealer though ripped me off!

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1.5 out of 5 stars

I bought a lemon 2

Carhen69, 11/16/2007
2006 Kia Spectra EX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I bought my car in May of 2006 brand new off the lot for $17,500. After Driving the car for a couple of days I noticed a terrible vibration coming from the front of the vehicle. The steering wheel vibrated so bad that I hated driving this car. When I mentioned this problem to the dealer I was told that the engine was just to big for the car! I have had the car looked at by 2 different dealers in the last year and a 1/2 since I owned because of many issues, ranging from poor gas mileage, vibration and loss of power. My car has now been in the shop for over a week and am now being told that YES there is a problem but they simply do not know what it is. They are working to resolve....

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Rollerskate

Great Car, 03/09/2008
2006 Kia Spectra EX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

32K and runs like a charm. My commuter car, comfortable, reliable (no squeaks, rattles, repairs). Great value. Would buy another Kia in a second.

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2.5 out of 5 stars

HEADACHES!!

PPower, 02/02/2009
2006 Kia Spectra EX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I had this car approx. 2 years, and put 25,000 miles on it. The car was a replacement for the other 2006 Spectra that dropped its transmission after just 150 miles! After 10000 miles, the car died in the middle of a very busy intersection. The fuel valve gave way, and it was in the shop for a week. Kia does not provide loaner cars. After 20,000 miles, the transmission began shifting hard. I took the car in, and the service manager advised the car would need a new transmission, however the head service manager would have to review the findings. Another week, and Kia called back to say that the transmission only need a quart of fluid. From a new transmission to a quart of fluid?!? YEAH RIGHT!

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5 out of 5 stars

Everything better than expected

Gene, 08/19/2009
2006 Kia Spectra EX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

For a first new car purchase, I researched thoroughly through Edmunds and Consumer Reports. After 3 years, this car has surpassed my expectations, no complaints whatsoever. Excellent gas mileage, plenty of head and leg room, car has been consistently dependable in all driving situations. Have had it on 1000+ mile trip @ continuous speeds of 80mph, and have needed peppiness in interstate traffic as of late, the car keeps meeting expectations. The only complaint was one tire with a separated belt somewhere in it, didn't figure this out until after warranty was out on tires, no fault of car manufacturer. Car still runs fine, just low noise from the tire, faint wobble when rotated to front.

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5 out of 5 stars

Dang

Very Happy Customer, 07/24/2006
2006 Kia Spectra EX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I never thought in a million years that I'd be buying a Kia. After years of general motors cars I wanted to try something different. The Spectra was not very big when I looked at it but when I sat in it it had more than enough room. I was amazed at the smooth ride and gas mileage of the car. I drove all of the way from Darien Georgia to Nashville TN on one tank of gas! I rode around for another day and a half after that. This is over 600 miles. The price is great as well. Kia just got a customer for life if they keep making cars like this.

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4.63 out of 5 stars

Nice Small Car for Experienced Drivers

ConcernedConsumer, 03/26/2008
2006 Kia Spectra EX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I bought my Kia in 2006 and loved it. Got good gas mileage and ease of maneuvering in parking lots and streets. Never thought much about it until my teenager hit a culvert (under a driveway) to avoid another car partially in her lane unexpectedly. The front end smashed in and both of her legs had compound fractures and she was hospitalized for 11 days. Maybe it was the way the car hit, or not enough decrease in speed before impact, but I believe more front end would have offered more protection. Bottom line is, I would recommend these for experienced drivers and put a little more car in front of the inexperienced and teenage driver for their own safety. Hindsight is always 20/20.

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4.75 out of 5 stars

I'd buy another one!

Jonny, 06/06/2007
2006 Kia Spectra Spectra5 4dr Wagon (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I love this car and would buy another one. Great car for customizing and modding. Gas mileage is 30 MPG. I'm 58 yrs old and have owned Jags, MGs, Triumphs, Sunbeam Alpine and Tiger, Austin Healey 2+2, Piper GT to name a few and this car is just as much fun to drive as any of those. But you don't have the high maintenance on it. Just get in and drive the Kia. Most reliable car I have ever had. I recommend Kias to everybody I meet. And it will outrun some of the Hondas, Mazdas, Toyotas, and Nissans.

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5 out of 5 stars

Quite a Value....And Fun, Too.

John S, 06/17/2006
2006 Kia Spectra Spectra5 4dr Wagon (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I highly recommend this KIA, especially considering the cost. Something I never thought I'd say. Ride and steering is nice and tight. Comfort is very good, though a taller person has nowhere to fully straighten out the right leg when on cruise control. A minor concern. Car looks sharp, good clean lines/curves. Brakes feel solid. The interior looks very nice. Climate controls are easy to use. Keeping in mind that this is not a sports car; the engine has no power issues, unless you have more than one passenger, and are going up a steep hill. Overall, this car is a terrific value. Add in the incredible warranty, and I couldn't pass it up. More than a commuter car, it's a fun ride.

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5 out of 5 stars

Fun Little Car

smartie pants, 08/04/2006
2006 Kia Spectra Spectra5 4dr Wagon (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

We were downsizing due to rising gas prices with no end in sight, and the current Middle East crisis. We are both tall, hubby 6'6" and me 6' and we fit well with room to spare. The latch lock and rear anchor tether system for child seat is great. With all of us in the car, it is not too quick off the mark, but it is great for what we use it for, commuting to work. The hatch back has a ton of room. I managed to fit 2 big boxes and a black bin bag full of recycling in there the other day and I could still see out of the rear view mirror! For the price this car is a lot of fun to drive and has all we need for a comfy ride to work.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

A great little car

Richard, 01/28/2008
2006 Kia Spectra EX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
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Bought my Spectra about one year ago, currently has about 18,000 miles on it. I have had absolutely no problems with it. I had cruise control added at the time of purchase, other than that it's stock. This is my daily driver, it's comfortable, reliable and gets decent mileage. The Spectra happens to be my second Kia, I have a Sedona van that has been to the dealer several times (however everything was covered by the warranty) it currently has 58,000 miles on it. The Spectra's a great handling car.

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4.38 out of 5 stars

Kia Spectra5

KentuckyRanger, 08/05/2006
2006 Kia Spectra Spectra5 4dr Wagon (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
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I purchased the Spectra 5 about 2 months ago and so far the car has performed excellent. The performance is what you'd expect from a 2L 4 cylinder engine but as far as the drivetrain, everything runs smooth as silk. The power band of the engine is quite linear and the transmission shifts are smooth and precise. It's taken about 4k miles for the millage to come up and so far with about 5k miles it's averaging 31 mpg, not too bad. The ride is superb and the noise level rivals much bigger luxury cars as well. If you close your eyes while riding down the interstate you'd swear you where in a much bigger car. The Spectra 5 also has a stout secure feel to it while driving, very solid with excellent feedback.

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4.38 out of 5 stars

Ya gotta love it!

KRZAN, 02/08/2009
2006 Kia Spectra EX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
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My wife drives 25000 miles per year. We are about to head back to our KIA dealer and trade the 06’ we bought new for a new 09’ We have 75000 miles on our Spectra EX. It has been the most reliable, trouble free vehicle we have ever operated. We replaced brakes one time, tires one time, and of course, oil changes at every 3000 miles. Ya gotta love it!

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5 out of 5 stars

A Great Car

GK, 08/23/2006
2006 Kia Spectra EX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
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The vehicle is quiet, roomy and comfortable. People cannot believe that it is a Kia. It drives like a much more expensive vehicle and is economical on fuel. Highly recommended!

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Great Deal

Jim, 11/22/2005
2006 Kia Spectra SX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
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What a car for the money. If you are looking for a quality car at a affordable price this is it. Very comfortable ride and the interior design is great; ample leg and head room front and back. With the standard safety features and options this vehicle comes with for the price it is the best on the market and that's not even mentioning the standard warranty you get at no charge. If this vehicle is a consideration I do suggest going with the SX model. Many more options for not a lot more money. The '06 has a much improved sound system and power is plenty, cruises like a dream on the highway.

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5 out of 5 stars

Look out Toyota and Honda

Tango6, 12/24/2009
2006 Kia Spectra EX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
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My wife bought this car just before we got married. I have owned a few Hondas and Toyotas in my lifetime. After researching Kia, I felt it would be an OK car. Now 77,000 miles later, we have had no mechanical problems and the car still gets better than 30 MPG. It easily made 4 trips from Columbus, GA to El Paso, TX. The wife uses to go to work every day(12 miles one way) and for all of her shopping needs. We occasionally make weekend trips of about 400 mile. Overall this car has impressed me. It's not the fun driving car my Audi is, but it doesn't have that price tag either. Only normal maintenance and a set of brakes and tires at this point.

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