2003 Kia Spectra Trims and Specs

For 2003, the Kia Spectra STD sedan adds a CD player and an illuminated ignition switch, and not much else to the base model. Still powered by a somewhat sluggish 1.8-liter, 125-hp DOHC I4 engine and choice of 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission, the 2003 Spectra STD features 14-inch wheels and dual front airbags, but no traction or stability control. ABS brakes are only optional.

Air conditioning is still only optional, but standard features include intermittent wipers, a tachometer and clock, power steering, and front and overhead consoles. Rear seats split-fold for more cargo versatility. Aside from the ABS and air options, you can get a CD changer and a rear spoiler for the 2003 Spectra STD. Along with the low price tag, the 24/32 mpg is attractive to budget drivers. Handling is crisp and the seats are comfortable, and owners like all the features you get for the price. Resale value is fairly low, however. Other complaints are the lack of power when going uphill and the small backseat.

The 2003 Kia Spectra GS is the base model hatchback of this economy car. In 2003, the GS receives a standard CD player, illuminated ignition, and it gets a wiper for the rear window. Powered by a 1.8-liter, 124-hp DOHC I4 engine and choice of 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic, the front-wheel drive 2003 Spectra GS is minimally equipped otherwise, with a tachometer, rear defrost, intermittent front wipers, and dual front airbags. The cargo space is a bit larger than in the sedan, at 11.6 cubic feet, and the rear seats do split-fold flat. Air conditioning and a CD changer are the major options.

The 2003 Spectra GS gets around 24/32 highway, and its versatile use of space makes it appealing to young commuters who need a car that can span both weekday work and weekend fun. Drivers like the low price tag and the fuel economy, but complain that they've had to make a lot of service shop visits without much help from Kia customer support. Interior room is decent, but tires and brakes wear out early.

Additions to the 2003 Kia Spectra LS this year include increased sound insulation for a quieter ride, a new standard CD player, and a lit ignition switch. The 2003 Spectra LS is the top-level sedan in the Spectra lineup, featuring front-wheel drive, 14-inch wheels, a 1.8-liter, 124-hp DOHC I4 engine and 14-inch wheels. A 5-speed manual is standard and 4-speed automatic optional. The 2003 Spectra LS adds air conditioning, power features, and foglights to the intermittent wipers, tachometer, and rear defrost of the base model. Dual front airbags are standard. ABS brakes are offered as an option, along with alloy wheels. Other nice extras include a CD changer, remote entry, cruise control, and a rear spoiler.

The 2003 Spectra LS features split-folding rear seats and a 10.4 cubic foot trunk. Seats fold flat for extra cargo space. The low sticker price combined with the 24/32 fuel economy is a big selling point for owners, who are surprised by the roominess for a compact, easy maneuverability, and overall value. More power and less engine noise are the biggest gripes, and there are complaints about Kia customer service.

A 1.8-liter, 124-hp DOHC I4 and 5-speed manual come standard in the 2003 Kia Spectra GSX, a compact hatchback that sits on 14-inch wheels and is the top-end hatchback offering in the Spectra lineup. A 4-speed auto tran is optional. Additions this year to the 2003 Spectra GSX include a CD player and a rear window wiper. Dual front airbags are standard, and ABS brakes are optional. The economy car fits four, with an ample 43 inches of front legroom and 11.6 cubic feet of cargo space.

On the outside, the 2003 Spectra GSX adds foglights and a rear spoiler beyond what you get on the GS. It also comes with full power features, heated mirrors, tilt steering, air conditioning, and leather trim for the wheel and shifter. Front and overhead consoles add more storage options. The 2003 Spectra GSX also offers more extras, including cruise control and remote entry, in addition to a CD changer. Some of the highlights include affordability, high fuel economy, tight handling, and the long list of standard features that often don't come in economy cars. Negatives for drivers include inadequate tires, lack of horsepower and acceleration, and some road noise.