Used 2008 Kia Spectra Consumer Reviews
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2008 Kia Spectra5 SX
Choncer, 12/21/2008
2008 Kia Spectra Spectra5 SX 4dr Wagon (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
31 of 31 people found this review helpful
The Spectra5 is a very fun spunky car that can't quite out-accelerate other like makes, at higher speeds it dominates. Turning and cornering is exceptional, sound system is lacking in quality, but replacing the door speakers makes a world of difference. Controls are very functional and convenient, construction is solid. After market accessories are limited, but that's to be expected with a new vehicle. Not fond of the fact that the glovebox doesn't lock. When rear seats are folded down though, all kinds of rear space. I can't say enough good things about this car.
2008 kia spectra owned 10 years now
Joseph Hall, 01/10/2018
updated 07/12/2021
2008 Kia Spectra LX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
19 of 19 people found this review helpful
I bought my 2008 Kia Spectra from the dealer with 2 miles on it in april of 2008. I am pretty sure those 2 miles were put on by me in my test drive too. She now has 114K miles on her over 12 years and I can safely say this is the best car I've ever owned. Despite what the reviews seem to say here, my LX does have ac which has never once needed to be repaired, only recharged once. As for maintenance I have only had to do regular service, and, as long as you treat the car well, you'll most likely never have to do any advanced repairs for a long time to come. This car is amazingly reliable and affordable. It also has more climate control settings than your average car that costs twice as much, with 9 fan speeds and many more temperature settings than any other car I've driven. I love it and have come to rely on it. I drive a 2017 subaru outback for work, and despite the outback having more power, I far prefer my Spectra. Update 7/11/21: the car still runs great. I've had to recharge the ac once since this review was written, but other than that I've had no major maintenance that has had to be done. She's still a very good car and I love her a lot. Still the best car by far over ever owned. I'm at around 122k miles on her odometer now.
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I love my KIA soo much!
James, 06/04/2010
2008 Kia Spectra EX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
9 of 9 people found this review helpful
OMG, where do I start. I bought it new NOV 07, I got to choose the one I wanted any color anything. Took one look at my white EX 5spd rear spoiler, and I was hooked. So long story short 2 1/2 yrs later and car approaching 60,000 miles on it now, not a thing has gone wrong. People always comment on my car, and how clean and good it has held up! I take care of my car but don't baby it! I think it handles really well, and at times I feel like I'm in a sports car. The rear spoiler makes it look so much better and 5 spd Overdrive, I don't have to always down shift up hills (only when some trucker or slow car gets in front of me. All and all At least take a look and consider!
Bye Bye Kia
Bri, 02/10/2009
2008 Kia Spectra Spectra5 SX 4dr Wagon (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
7 of 7 people found this review helpful
Well, I owned this car for 11 months and totaled it a couple weeks ago. Overall I enjoyed the Spectra5, and it did pretty well with a rear collision at 50 mph. Pushed me into another car, so both the front and back ends got it, but neither crumpled that far. Safety-wise it did pretty good. The driver seat during the collision slid to the back and put me into a reclining position. Strange, but not a serious fault in my opinion. So, good on safety, brakes stopped me, but the Civic behind me... not so much.
2nd Time Around
cph0857, 10/26/2011
2008 Kia Spectra EX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
10 of 11 people found this review helpful
I totaled my '07 Spectra about 3 weeks ago and was heartbroken. This car had been flawless with no problems. My collision was at 40 mph, with an immoveable object. (Tree) Yes, I was sober. My Kia took great care of me in the accident, crumpled all around me with no serious damage to the passenger compartment. I wish the exterior panels had not been so damaged, but I will trade the totaled exterior for the protected interior any day. I walked away with just a tiny cut on my finger from the broken glass. I found an 08 with 5,000 miles and we are settling in nicely. I expect to have a long and happy life with my new Spectra.
High miles and still going
Michael brown, 06/28/2018
2008 Kia Spectra SX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
7 of 8 people found this review helpful
I've owned my spectra sx twice now I bought it used in 2014 when it had 280000 miles on it and haven't had to hardly do anything to it t runs as if it was a brand new car I got rid of it in April of 2016 when it had 302000 mile on it to get a 06 Yukon Denali and then recently this year I got it back at 304000 and now it has 305000 Iles and still running like new I love this car its roomy has great quality.
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Love my Lil blue fox!
Mr. Fox, 03/05/2017
updated 09/12/2022
2008 Kia Spectra EX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
It's been the best car I've had in a long time. Never had even so much as a check engine light the whole time I've owned since it had 6 miles on it. On a straight freeway trip once I actually obtained 44mpg with cruise set. I was absolutely amazed! Even around town my fuel mileage in my Lil Fox is stupendous! She only eats a Lil bit and goes a long way on that. I can't speak highly enough of this vehicle! ( Maybe I just got a hold of a good one?) Regular service as needed, that's all. Never, ever left me stranded. Showing just a Lil bit of normal wear and tear, but still looking good. And most importantly, mechanically the best! I'm retired, this might very well be the last vehicle I may own. I'm sure it will be around for a long time with lots of love. *Update!* My lil fox just turned over 100,000 miles! Still doing wonderfully great. Even in the blasting heat of this summer she ran cool, no overheating problems! I can only say that it is a bit saddening that the Spectra model is no longer produced today.(The last year they made this model was 2009). If they still did, if I ever decided to trade up, it would be to the newer Spectra. Kia makes wonderful cars but the rub is that none of the newer makes/models can obtain the fuel mileage I can achieve with my Spectra to this day. As long as my lil fox will answer the call of my key, I will keep her. She always takes me where I need to go, without hesitation, summer, winter, anytime. Kudos to Kia for the Spectra! ***Update as of 9/7/2019*** My lil blue fox (spectra) now has 163,000 miles and runs as good and smooth as the first day. Just had the factory fuel pump and fuel pressure regulator valve replaced, yes they lasted 10 1/2yrs!!! Exceptional as far as I'm concerned.
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BEWARE!!! Engine dies - Steering wheel locks!
C.B. Dunlevy, 06/24/2016
2008 Kia Spectra EX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
15 of 20 people found this review helpful
■ 2016 April 23 I brought my car in for the regular “The Works” package maintenance to Kia of Dayton. Thereafter, my car ran a little rough. I did not think much of it until my car began “pausing/hesitating” as I drove it. ■ 2016 May 25 I was driving to an interview and thought the car was going to die on the highway. My car has never behaved like this; and, again, this was after the most recent routine maintenance on April 23, 2016. In addition, sometimes when I put on the brakes, the car stops and then lunges forward. This does not happen all the time; it happens intermittently. ■ 2016 June 10 I had my two twin granddaughters in the car. We met my husband for lunch and then went to Kettering Hospital to visit a relative. While driving in city traffic (going approximately 35 MPH), I gradually applied the brakes to stop at a stop light. When the light turned green, I realized that the engine had died. This concerned me as this has never happened. ■ 2016 June 13 I brought my car in to the dealership and described what was occurring. A diagnostics was performed and the car was driven. The Tech advised that nothing showed on the diagnostics and that when the car was driven, no issues occurred. ■ 2016 June 18 I drove from my house to the local grocery and back to my home. As I went to make a right-hand turn from, I gradually braked, made the turn and then realized the engine had died because my steering wheel locked! I had the air conditioner on, the radio on and was singing to it, so I did not hear the engine die. Further, because I could not steer, I went into the other lane and thankfully, no one was in the lane or I would have hit them. In addition, if someone would have been behind me, they would have hit me as they would not have expected me to turn and suddenly stop—especially since I did not have my foot on the brake after I turned. ■ 2016 June 20 I took my car back in to Kia of Dayton and reported the June 18, 2016 incident. I told the tech that I was very concerned about these incidents and relayed that I considered these to be very dangerous and life-threatening. I also called the Fixed Operations Director, and relayed that my car has been running rough since I got it back on 4/23/2016, feels like it is pausing/hesitating when I drive it; died while I was driving it without warning on 6/10/2016. (I had put on the brake for a stop light and did not know it had died until I tried to accelerate.) I advised that the diagnostics done on 6/13/2016 did not produce anything and that I thought maybe all of this was just an odd happening, so I continued to drive the car. On 6/18/2016, when I was right turning, the car died and the steering wheel locked and that I considered these incidents to be extremely dangerous and life threatening. I called the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and provided information regarding this issue. I wrote the Fixed Operations Director a letter documenting the incidents and my concerns and noted that I had copied the NHTSA. 2016 June 22 the tech called and said that they ran another electronic diagnostic and have driven the car over 50 miles and nothing shows up on the diagnostic and they cannot reproduce the incidents. I reiterated that I do not feel safe driving the car. I asked if any of the incidents were recorded in the car’s memory. No. I asked if the sensors in the car were able to record things like this. No. So, the sensors are not sensitive enough to record such incidents. I asked him what might cause the car to pause/hesitate while I am driving and he said that it might be the spark plugs. I asked if he checked these and he said no as that would mean that they need to tear apart the car to check these. I also asked about the fuel filter and the same thing applies. He said that tearing apart the car and looking at it will cost me. 2016 June 23 I called and left a message with the Fixed Opertions Director around 12:30 pm advising that I would like to speak to him regarding my car. Since I did not hear back from him, I called Kia of Dayton and asked for the corporate office # and was given 1.270.783.8080. I called and spoke with a woman named Tricia. I explained to her what was going on with my vehicle and she suggested that I call and speak with the General Manager of Kia of Dayton. I called Kia of Dayton and spoke with the General Manager and conveyed my concerns about how serious these incidents are. He offered to do a trade in with me. Unbelievable. I advised that I am the only owner of this vehicle, that she has run fine until 4/23/2016. I am currently waiting for Kia Corporate to look into all of this as an internet search documents that the issue of Kia's suddenly dying while being driven goes back to at least the 2001 models. Query as to how many "accidents" have occurred that were attributed to a driver when it was a product failure! BEWARE!!! And, I love my car.... :-(
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Not bad for the money
Bryan, 12/30/2009
2008 Kia Spectra EX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
6 of 7 people found this review helpful
I am a young driver(21) bought this when I was 19(actually still making payments) and this has been a great car. The 5 speed really lets you open up the engine and get the most out of it and I wouldn't have it any other way. Mine has developed a rather strange problem lately, the rear floorboards are getting soaked but there is no leake up top, so I am guessing water is coming in from the bottom? This will be my first experience with KIA customer service so I hope they treat me well and I get my car back soon. This seems like a rare problem so I won't blame the car just yet. Overall, great car for the money hands down.
Great Value for the Dollar!
G.Peter, 01/09/2008
2008 Kia Spectra Spectra5 SX 4dr Wagon (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
This is one of finest compact cars on the market today. The features that this car offers are absolutely phenomenal. I initially checked out other compact cars such as the Dodge Caliber, Toyota Matrix, Pontiac Vibe, and Nissan Sentra. I have to admit that each of those cars left me desiring and seeking much more. Then I decided to check out the Kia Spectra 5 and that was the best decision I could have made. The car was everything I was looking for in a compact car. The look was sporty. The exterior quality was extremely obvious. The interior was loaded with features that even some bigger cars and SUVs didn't have. Then came the drive. I was sold and the car was mine. Thank you Kia.
Goodbye Toyota, Nissan - Make Way For Spectra!
William, 07/02/2018
2008 Kia Spectra EX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
Bought new - standard 5 speed - now has 240,000 miles - replaced: Clutch at 200K miles, Alternator at 190K miles - that's it!!! DROP MICROPHONE AND WALKED AWAY!!! ENOUGH SAID! AWESOME LITTLE CAR!!
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Zippy car!
Teresa, 02/28/2018
updated 09/10/2018
2008 Kia Spectra EX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
I previously owned a 2005 Ford Freestyle, fully loaded. Never had an issue with this car and suddenly the transmission failed. I have never owned a Kia, until now. While I am disappointed in the lack of "extras", it is a simple car and what I could afford at the moment. It has a surprising bit of get up and go. I feel like I could pass anyone on the road. Everything on the inside (radio, trip meter, lights, etc.) is very easy to find and operate. I tend to think of it as a "sleeper" car because the acceleration is so awesome but it's just a simple four-door sedan. This would be a wonderful starter vehicle for someone. I plan to keep the car for a year and build my credit, but if I continue to be happy with it, I will be a Kia owner after this! Side note, I bought this car from a Kia dealership and it was very clean and I was told the mechanic tore it apart and fixed what was wrong (which wasn't much). Update: after owning for 6 months the only issue I have is the driver door cannot be opened from the inside. Seems to be a problem for other Spectra owners.
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First and Last Kia
stoneattic, 03/06/2009
2008 Kia Spectra Spectra5 SX 4dr Wagon (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
4 of 5 people found this review helpful
If you use the stereo aux with a satellite radio or charging ipod there is a very noticeable alternator whine. The dealer had it twice, now claims that's the way it's supposed to work. If you are going to have a convenience feature it should work properly. As annoying as this is the real clincher is that the parking lights will go on by themselves in the middle of the night for no reason, draining the battery. I'm not the only one with this. Search Kia forums and you will find many with the same issue. Kia claims a new BCM will fix it, but it hasn't corrected mine. Then there's the goofy shift points, but there's not enough room to list all of my complaints. Dealer is awful too.
Unresolved Problems
Peggy, 03/04/2009
2008 Kia Spectra Spectra5 SX 4dr Wagon (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I purchased the Spectra5 for gas mileage reasons and it was a cute car. It was great for the first 4.5 months - consistently 30 to 35mpg and the car was so quiet stopped or running. After that I get 15 to 20mpg with no changes to driving habits, route traveled or where gas purchased and the car is a lot louder. Service dept blames it on weather, car breaking in or just say they don't know and no attempt to look it over. It started at the end of summer before cold started. Make sure that you buy from a dealer that cares. I should have kept my SVU - same gas mileage and no car payment.
Spectra
KIA, 02/25/2010
2008 Kia Spectra EX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I bought my Spectra, new. The gas mileage is great! I usually get 26 mpg around town; 39 mgp highway. It's the perfect car for around town, but a little small for interstate driving. It has great pick up and handles turns well.
Love my little car
Janet, 06/16/2018
2008 Kia Spectra EX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I've had my little white Spectra for nearly 10 years, and it has never ever, not once, given me a lick of trouble. It's not fancy, it's too old to have all the bells and whistles, but it has a great radio and CD player, climate control keeps me always comfortable, it's reliable and dependable, gets pretty good gas mileage, and gets me where I need to go every time. It holds two carseats in back, and a little person can fit between them, allowing me to transport four grandkiddos at a time. What more, really, does one need in a car? I love my little Spectra.
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2008 Kia Spectra
Bob E., 03/27/2009
2008 Kia Spectra EX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Overall the vehicle has done what I needed and expected. Power is fine, mileage was about 30-31 mpg until I reached 25000 miles then I tipped 38mpg a few times depending upon passenger content, and city/highway percentage of driving when tracking the mpg of a tank of fuel. Sound system is good with nice bass and crisp highs. My tires wore out at 27000 miles to the wear bars even though I kept pressure monitored closely and rotated according to recommendations, but you know how the new car new tires are worse mileage than the ones you replace them with! The only thing would keep me from another spectra purchase is the timing belt has terrible moaning noise in the engine. Dlr says its fine!
Best Valued Commute Car!
themagicfarmer, 05/01/2013
2008 Kia Spectra EX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Bought my 08 Spectra (with 18K on it) from an official Kia dealer about a year ago. No disappointment so far. The car has all necessary functions, basically powered everything, Air conditioning and so forth. It's built cheap but in a simple and neat fashion, plus designed with safety and accessibility in mind. Spacious, driver's seat, back seats and truck, every where. Kia's service center is excellent too. They perform everything necessary, and never charge for pointless services, like mandatory car wash if serviced which many Honda dealers do. It's the type of shop you want to rely on. (my dealer is located 3 mins from where I live, I'm happy!) To sum up, isn't it an ideal commute car?
Will never buy a Kia again!!
Heather, 06/03/2009
2008 Kia Spectra LX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
3 of 4 people found this review helpful
I do enjoy by Kia. I got it with 12 miles on it in May 08. I don't drive it very much, just to work. But I've had it in the shop 3 time. My kia is a manual and I think thats the problem. the 1st 2 times it was in the shop was 4 months after I got it. It would not go into reverse.Well a new transmission and cluch later the service department said it was "Fixed". WRONG at 11months old sure enough its doing it again so i take it to the delership and they say nothing is wrong. Am I the only person having trouble???
Parking lights stay on sometimes
Don, 02/01/2009
2008 Kia Spectra SX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
3 of 4 people found this review helpful
Bought car 6 mo. ago, had this problem since I bought car, dealer said if it doesn't happen all the time, they couldn't fix it. That was fine in the summer but when I had to have it jumped 3 times in the parking lot at work in -10, that's a problem. Brought it back, still wouldn't fix it. Car is 6 mo. old, 13,000 miles, lost 6 grand in value. My mpg were 24-33 thats terrible. My folks' big Buick gets 30 and it's a nice ride, not like this.
Buyer's Remorse
James, 10/05/2008
2008 Kia Spectra SX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
3 of 4 people found this review helpful
This vehicle is really uncomfortable to drive for more than an hour. The driver's seat curves up sharply jabbing into your rear end. I'm not a skinny guy, but by no means large either. But the real disappointment is in the 23 mpg avg I'm getting. Mostly highway, this is very disappointing in a car this size. Now one nice thing is that the controls are easy to reach. Second, this car really has some kick. It will jump out in traffic like a 6 cylinder vehicle if you need to. But it fails to be a good ride and to be economical to drive.
Disgusted
Tony, 10/09/2010
2008 Kia Spectra SX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
7 of 14 people found this review helpful
Do not believe any favorable since they must be written by all of the useless salesmen who cannot sell the Kia Brand. Tires horrible, front end struts and steering arm, water sloshing, bad paint job, rear end noise. Never again. Buying Chevrolet.
My Kia
uptomischief, 11/30/2008
2008 Kia Spectra EX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I have had my Kia about a week. What a fun car. It has excellent pick up and you feel safe scooting out in traffic. The car is very comfortable. Easy to maneuver the seat and tilt wheel to make it comfortable. The keyless entry is great. It has a ton of trunk space. Inside is roomy enough for four people. It has a lot of extras you would not expect such as place to plug in ipod, sturdy cup holders including ones in back seat, CD player, etc. What I found amazing was that this car had all these extras but cruise control is not standard. Overall, this is a great car. It is fun and easy to drive, very economical, comfortable, reliable, safe, and less expensive than the competition
Nice car for the money
ikillbugs, 10/14/2008
2008 Kia Spectra EX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I bought my 2008 Kia used but with very few miles on it. I love the looks and the overall ride is excellent, even at 80 mph on the interstate (although past 80 it does get a bit shaky). I got the EX model, and given a choice (after the fact) I would certainly look for an SX model with the sportier suspension. It does not handle that well in tight corners, but I bought it for a commuter, not a race car. I rated it at 8 for BUILD QUALITY and RELIABILITY simply because I just don't know. I have only had the car a month. So far so good ;-)
Great Band For Your Buck!
williamkreth, 06/03/2009
2008 Kia Spectra EX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
i have owned 2 kias besides this one, and once again kia has surprised me, with their great cars they manufacture! i have been a long time kia owner, and that is not going to change, i drive alot usually 25,000 miles a year! and the kias hold up just fine! and i love their basic yet stylish designs and layouts!
Kia Spectra-Thumbs Up!
KiaFan, 11/17/2008
2008 Kia Spectra EX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I drove my Kia Spectra EX Automatic over 3700 miles in Western Canada and USA after buying one month before. Excellent comfort, cruise control was flawless, held the road well, achieved average of 35 mpg (39 in one stretch), great brakes. Plenty adequate pickup on entering a freeway. Very quiet engine at highway speed of 70 or at idle (wondered if in was running while waiting at a stop sign). The finish and fit is excellent. The price was right - at least $3000 less than a Corolla or Civic or Jetta. I also checked it to its sister/brother the Hyundai Elantra... compares well, same engine, nicer interior. Stereo/CD radio very good. Great warranty.
Bargain Small Car
Rob, 07/27/2008
2008 Kia Spectra EX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
This is a fine small car that has all of the features you need at a price considerably less than the Japanese makes. Quality of the major Korean brands has improved markedly over the last 15 to 20 years and they are almost on par with the major Japanese brands. The ride is surprisingly smooth and quiet. Engine power is adequate but no "ball of fire". Handling is ok but this is no sports car. This is a great first car for a teen or a second car for getting around town. With rebates the selling price of this car was $14,200 + TTL vs. a list price of $16,700. That is a strong price vs. what late model used cars are selling for without the strong factory warranty.
08 Kia a good buy
irishgreg83, 05/24/2008
2008 Kia Spectra EX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I have owned my kia for about three weeks now, and I have to say I really like this car. I was a little worried switching to a 4cyl foreign car, after drving 6 cyl chevys for as long as I have been driving. The car feels very sturdy while driving it. The 2.0 liter engine can get up and go although the engine gets kinda load over 4000 rpm. I get greats gas mileage, sometimes close to 38 mpg on the highway at reasonable speeds (80 mph or less). The drivers seat leaves a good bit of room for the driver which is nice if you are 6 ft plus, and there is plenty of head room. All in all I am happy I chose this car you cant beat it for the price.
Great Commuter Car - Thumbs UP!
billddrummer, 11/26/2008
2008 Kia Spectra EX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Bought this vehicle seeking reasonable price point and good fuel economy. The car delivers both with excellent results! I have daily multi-destination commutes and put nearly 600 miles/week on this vehicle among 3 drivers. We routinely get 30+ miles/gallon in mixed driving, and the car is comfortable for all of us, ranging from 5'5" to over 6 feet. Seats are wide enough for middle-aged spread, and pickup in lower gears is exceptional. No complaints from this happy owner! Check this out before buying a Honda or Toyota Corolla.
My only Problem is Humming Noise
Dwight Judd, 06/16/2010
2008 Kia Spectra EX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I enjoy driving the car it has great pick up. Now the problem that I'm having is when I'm driving the car and the wind is blowing at the passenger side of the car I'm picking up a high pitching humming noise inside the car sounds like it's coming from the driver side dash and window area but not sure.
Luv my car
kath, 05/19/2008
2008 Kia Spectra SX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I luv this car! I have gone from a suburban to this highly fuel efficient compact car. I drive approx. 60+ miles per day. It is very smooth and fun to drive. I thought the big car small car transition would be hard. Not a problem at all. But, when I go from this car to my husband's suburban I feel like I'm driving a bus. Have had about 1 month and getting 31 MPG in town. My mom bought one at the same time and she can't keep my dad out of it. It's hard to explain. You just have to test drive. It has a lot of get up and go. Very easy to maneuver. Can't say enough good things. Have the SX standard. Mom has the SX automatic, sister the EX, nephew the SX and I will be going back for one for my son.
very reliable
Jim, 08/30/2021
2008 Kia Spectra EX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Owned my 2008 Kia Spectra for 13 years with no issues!
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Nice little car for the money
KYPhoenix, 04/27/2008
2008 Kia Spectra EX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I have just recently purchased this vehicle. After looking at other vehicles in this class (Dodge Caliber/ Avenger, Ford Focus, etc) I believe this to be the best value, by far. The 2.0 with a manual is peppy, the engine is all but unnoticeable until 4k rpm (About 80+ in 5th), and with all the convenience features I got, makes me feel like I got a great deal. Gas mileage has been 22ish (city) thus far, but I only have about 150mi on her right now, and by all accounts mpg gets much better as it breaks in. Overall a great car for a person who needs affordable transportation, but likes a car to have a bit of pep and personality.
Outstanding! Move over Toyota!
joe, 09/17/2008
2008 Kia Spectra Spectra5 SX 4dr Wagon (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Before you pay more for a Toyota, Honda,etc, you owe it to yourself to look at the Kia! I bought this car a month ago and i can't say enough good about it. Style and features outside are great! Interior features and style, looks and feels awesome, then we get to the best part. This car handles and drives incredibly! I have the SX model which has the sport tuned suspension and it handles and feels like a sports car! I don't understand edmunds review about the motor. They say it gets noisy at high rpm, not mine! The 2.0 in this car has plenty of power and does not require high rev's to push or pass! I have the 5 speed manual, it's great! Don't overlook the Kia, you'll just pay more!
Some problems, but good car
mountaineer6, 04/07/2014
2008 Kia Spectra SX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I bought my 2008 Spectra about 2 years ago with 18,000 miles Certified Pre-Owned. Only major problem I've had is the front end is so out of whack (sometime shaking violently at highway speeds other times not and knocking noise), and no one can seem to fix it. Was told it was probably the tires, so I replaced them for the problem to resurface as soon as the were worn in. Now I'm about to drop another $500 to replace the front struts and hopefully resolve the issue. Kia says that it isn't covered under the warranty (because apparently the struts on a car with 40,000 miles should go bad.) Get 30mpg, SO FUN TO DRIVE, kinda slow but peppy, maneuverable, good visibility, ugly but sporty look.
Great value, like all the "kiadai" cars
Jose in Dallas, 06/10/2008
2008 Kia Spectra EX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Overall this vehicle is great for a subcompact. The Hyundai 2.0 L sounds fantastic at 6000 RPM but gets rather thirsty. Engine noise is very little until you get on the freeway. Very comfy suspension with the smoothness of a Caddy until you take a sharp corner where it leans like a pickup truck. The overall build and quality of these Korean cars (Hyundai & Kia) has been improving every year but they are still not on the same level as the Japanese. With the 100,000 Mi warranty the vehicle is a great value for the price.
Terrible trans!
disgusted, 09/18/2010
2008 Kia Spectra EX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
3 of 9 people found this review helpful
First transmission replaced at 17,000 miles, 2nd at 23,000. Water "sloshing" around somewhere in the dash/floor area that "can't be fixed". I like the warranty, but when the car's in the shop, you're stranded. No rental, no loaner, just stranded. I paid $950 for a used Mazda 626 with 175k on it and it's way more reliable than this!
So Happy
Cathy, 12/16/2009
2008 Kia Spectra Spectra5 SX 4dr Wagon (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 3 people found this review helpful
I'm so happy that I bought this car. I drive 45mins to and from work every day and is great on gas. I love is car.
not worth it
John C, 07/13/2009
2008 Kia Spectra Spectra5 SX 4dr Wagon (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 5 people found this review helpful
the gas mileage was disappointing.. The Spectra stared to fall apart in a year.. the service department was horrible.. I was hoping it would hold up and the dealership would honor the warranty but after taking it in three times for the door on the gas cap, they said it was a poor design and only cleaned it again.. and were so rude! they said I must have broken it and the seat belt that wouldn't retract.. the side door wouldn't always close.. and I always smelt something burning.. I wasn't planning to sell it in a year after buying new but lost confidence in this car and the warranty.. it is very top heavy and not a good car to drive in the real world.. I took a huge loss with Kia..
Lemon
Disappointed, 11/11/2010
2008 Kia Spectra Spectra5 SX 4dr Wagon (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
2 of 12 people found this review helpful
Bought this car less than a month ago and has already been in the shop twice. First mistake was buying used but I guess they saw a sucker coming. I got a lemon. Service dept. tells me its bad spark plug wires and spark plugs. Really every two weeks. They cannot replace them all until defective if under warranty. Really? Bet my warranty runs out first.
Right Stuff
Mush, 07/15/2008
2008 Kia Spectra Spectra5 SX 4dr Wagon (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The spectra 5 auto is fun and easy to drive. It looks great, holds the road real good and handles better than the Camry LE 2008 sedan which I test drove. I also test drove the Honda Civic 2008 but with all elements considered, I bought the Kia. Kia has good driving visibility (I am short) and the hatchback is a plus in this price range (cheaper by about $5K).
My next car will be a Kia
Derrick, 10/06/2008
2008 Kia Spectra SX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I love it. It looks great in a parking lot and sexy on the road! My friends and family all want to drive it and wish their car was a kia. I love my spectra sx!
More than I expected
Islanders, 06/27/2008
2008 Kia Spectra Spectra5 SX 4dr Wagon (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have only had the Spectra5 for a week, but I'm 6'3'' and have plenty of head room and enough leg room in both the front and back seats. The cabin is roomy with good cargo space. Nice trim kit, power windows, locks, strong AC. A great car to drive. I'm also impressed with the build quality. Nice solid feel to the transmission, and engine, etc from the first time I test drove it. Getting 30 mpg mixed driving with AC on. I'm trying to conserve fuel, but also haven't been passed by anyone. That might drop a little if it is a real grid lock urban crawl. So far I'm very pleased. I had a trailer hitch installed for a bike rack. Also getting Thule roof racks and sat radio. Great car.
WOW! What a fun car!
Pacific NW Customer, 12/24/2007
2008 Kia Spectra Spectra5 SX 4dr Wagon (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought my Spec5 from the dealership as soon as it was available. I do a LOT of business driving, and love the roominess of the hatchback when I have to carry my supplies with me. The peppy 2.0 liter engine with the 5- speed makes this car a blast to drive. I'm getting almost 30 mpg in town, and closer to 35 on the open road. I haven't run out of power when passing or accelerating, and it climbs in the mountains great too! Never a problem in the first 8000 miles! Love the 7500 mile oil changes, and of course the great warranty!
Nice little car
Bob, 01/03/2008
2008 Kia Spectra Spectra5 SX 4dr Wagon (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Have put about 1500 miles on in two weeks. Mixed driving (city and 75 mph interstate) with AC on about 25% of the time. Mileage 30-32 mpg. May get better as it breaks in. Reasonable power for an econo car. Engine noisey when pushing beyond 3500 rpm, but under normal driving a very quiet, pleasant ride. Good fit and finish. No wind noise in the interior unless wind is really blowing outside (30+ mph). Suspension a little soft. Sounds like it is bottoming out when I hit a pothole. I intend to keep this car a long time. If it is reliable, this car is an excellent buy.
Great Car
hdwestmont, 07/06/2009
2008 Kia Spectra Spectra5 SX 4dr Wagon (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought this car in February and since then have already put over 7,000 miles on it. I drive a lot! I've never gotten worse than 27 mpg and have gotten as good as 38, and trust me, I don't drive like an old woman and that's usually with the AC on too. Was planning on buying an American car, but after endless test drives, this car had more get up and go (compared to Pontiac Vibe, Dodge Caliber). I also liked it better than the Nissan Versa (way over priced) and the Toyota Matrix (also way over priced). All in all, It's been a great car, got more options for less money and it doesn't look like a pregnant roller skate! =)
What a fun surprise!
Kia Mia, 11/26/2008
2008 Kia Spectra Spectra5 SX 4dr Wagon (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I wasn't looking for a Kia when I went to this dealership. A salesman talked me into test driving a Spectra 5. I was totally surprised at how quiet and smooth this vehicle was. Road noise was absolutely minimal! The great looking interior is very comfortable. All instruments and accessories are easy to use while driving. I drove this car cross country twice and it was very comfortable the whole way. The car is very stylish. I've had numerous people inquiring about it with great interest. My wife liked the car so much that I gave it to her and bought another one, identical to it! The one thing I would change would be to have head rests that pivot from front to back. What a treat!
Can't beat 'em
AJ, 06/29/2008
2008 Kia Spectra Spectra5 SX 4dr Wagon (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I traded in my 05 Kia sportage v6 for the spectra5 sx and I gotta say, you can't go wrong with these cars. I had to trade for better mileage which wasn't very good on the sportage and I'm glad I did. The spectra is fun, sprite, well equipped, and a lot of bang for the buck. I compared Mazda3, Pontiac Vibe and Chevy Malibu and in the end I stuck with what I knew.
Great Buy!
Tina, 08/14/2008
2008 Kia Spectra SX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is my first new car and I don't think I could have done any better! Smooth driving and great gas mileage.
Big Suprise
PT, 06/07/2008
2008 Kia Spectra SX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
We walked away with this bargain for under 12k. This has been completely reliable and fun to drive for us. Very spacious interior and you feel completely secure wrapped in airbags, this is honestly the only car I have ever really enjoyed owning. Highly recommended by his owner.