Used 2006 Kia Spectra Sedan Consumer Reviews
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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.
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.
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.
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.
A Great Car
GK, 08/23/2006
2006 Kia Spectra EX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
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!
Great Deal
Jim, 11/22/2005
2006 Kia Spectra SX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
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.
Spectra is fun
clhowardgc, 11/25/2005
2006 Kia Spectra EX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Very quiet, good acceleration, even with the automatic. Gas mileage has been improving as we put more miles on, now over 30 mpg. It now has about 7700 miles, with absolutely no problems thus far. One of the selling points was the excellent warranty, but have not had to use it. Passengers have commented it rides better than some larger mid-size vehicles.
Love them both (My SX and EX)
Big Dave, 02/16/2006
2006 Kia Spectra SX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I actually own two of these cars ... one '06 SX 5 speed and an '05 EX auto. I gave it 10's based on what you get for the money. I'm a big guy (6'3" 270) and I fit with room to move thanks to the seats. My wife and I do a lot of traveling in it without feeling cramped. The engine is rev happy and fun to drive. I drive my SX pretty hard and it always handles well for me. The older EX had a few minor issues (fuel door, speedometer) that were fixed very quickly and we havent had any problems since. It's a very solid build overall and wont give you with that cheap car feeling. It's way more car than what you pay for. This is great driver and really has what you need in the real world.
great car for a great price!
nedyarb, 04/28/2006
2006 Kia Spectra EX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
If you're looking for a great car with excellent fuel economy, this is the one for you. I recently purchased my Spectra and so far I'm very satisfied with it. The only thing that caught my attention so far with it would be that it has a high rev in 1st gear before it shifts. Other than that it has been fun to drive, and for the price it's hard to pass up!
2nd one
Bill, 04/27/2006
2006 Kia Spectra SX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The 1st was hit in the rear by a Caddy in November and totaled. Bought Amanti, gave to wife and then bought 2nd. Great car and will hold its own against others in same class costing thousands more. Best is the warranty, 100K. Looks, features, economy (looking at $3 gallon gas), interior room. Fun to drive and not tired after driving 100s miles on highway for business. Should definitely consider in today's market.
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.
So Fun to Drive
Carol, 05/31/2006
2006 Kia Spectra SX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I've owned this vehicle for a little over 2 months. I love driving it! It's got everything I could want in a car (all the included options with the SX), the steering is tight and the feel is very sporty. Makes me feel years younger. Mileage is still at 28 mpg - hoping that goes up with time - but I don't baby it either, since my drive to work is all freeway at 70 mph. My only comment (and I know I read this when I was first researching the vehicle) is that it almost feels like it could have had a 6th gear - I'm not even close to maxing out the rpm's though - just how it feels to me. But I really love driving it - problem is, so does my husband. We might have to get one for him!
GREAT CAR
Peggy, 06/11/2006
2006 Kia Spectra SX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have been a Toyota driver for many years. My last car was a Corolla, which I drove to its dying day. However, during my research while buying a new car the warranty on a KIA was 100,000 miles/10 years. Once I went to the dealership and test drove one I couldn't believe how it felt. It is great. It drives like the Corolla, and looks kinda like it. For the price I couldn't go wrong. The standard equipment on this car is great. I keep my cars until they die and I know this one will be with me for many years.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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....
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.
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.
Like a Timex, Keeps on running !
Carl Leason, 04/29/2008
2006 Kia Spectra EX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
From day one, (bought this car new ), it just always runs and have had no problems, NONE, of any kind ! Ave. fuel mileage about 30 and already have 42,000 miles on it. The dealer is great, This is my second Kia and I always am treated as if they like me. The only reasons for going to dealer is for oil changes.Tire rotation, best car I ever owned !
I am probably a kia man
rob, 05/01/2008
2006 Kia Spectra SX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have owned this vehicle for a couple of days and I am honestly surprised by the performance and 100% happy and satisfied. I would say if you have a small family and you want a powerful and fun economical car go for the spectra sx
100+K miles later still love this car!
trina1987, 04/20/2010
2006 Kia Spectra EX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 1 people found this review helpful
I bought my Kia brand new with only 51 miles on it. I've had no major mechanical problems whatsoever with it. Just keep up with routine maintenance :) I do drive way more than the average person (mostly from road trips of 300+ miles round trip), thus my poor baby has 114,400 miles (and counting) - and yet no break downs to date. Several of my friends have driven my car from time to time, and always ask to buy it from me should I ever sell it. But unfortunately for them, I plan to keep this car for good. I only paid about 16K and it was worth every penny! I recommend any Kia, but especially the 2006 Spectra <3
Great little ride
2006 kia great car, 06/05/2010
2006 Kia Spectra EX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 1 people found this review helpful
Drove from NY to AZ in 2 days average speed of 80. took it up to 105 a few times with confidence. Great car for the money. Good gas mileage. $20 bucks get u at least a half tank! 400 miles to a tank.