2002 Kia Spectra Reviews, Pricing & Specs
Overview
It's hard to say goodbye, but in 2002 Kia's first American model, the Sephia sedan, was no more. Actually, it was rebadged as the 2002 Kia...
It's hard to say goodbye, but in 2002 Kia's first American model, the Sephia sedan, was no more. Actually, it was rebadged as the 2002 Kia Spectra sedan, joining the Spectra hatchback as the economy compact offering in the Kia lineup. The 2002 Spectra sedan came in base and LS trims, which mirrored the GS and GSX trims of the sportier hatchback. For 2002, both models received new front and rear lights and a new grille, with the LS getting additional grille chrome accents. Foglights were now standard on both the LS sedan and GSX hatchback.
The powertrain remains the same -- a 1.8-liter, 125-hp DOHC I4 engine and standard 5-speed manual or optional 4-speed automatic. Both the base sedan and hatchback are sparsely equipped, with 14-inch tires, intermittent wipers, power steering, and a cassette player. Opting for the LS or GSX adds power features, air conditioning, cruise control, alloy wheels, a tilt steering wheel, and adjustable seat cushion for the drivers. The GSX hatchback also adds a rear spoiler, rear window wiper, air dams, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel, to give the impression of a sportier ride. Seats in all models split-fold 60/40. On the outside, both cars look very similar, and it's hard to tell which is the hatchback. A slightly more sloped roofline and the rear hatch opening are the telltale signs. The hatch liftgate offers a cubic foot more of cargo space than the sedan.
The backseat is cramped for adults, but the 2002 Spectra makes a good personal starter car or first family car. The base price and long-term warranty are the biggest highlights, but owners also say the handling and steering are surprisingly agile and smooth. Front seats are comfortable, gas mileage is good, and the hatchback cargo space is large for a compact car. Downsides include many mechanical and electrical problems. Poor quality materials get scratched and dented easily, and flaking paint is unattractive. The trunk release sticks and the tires are not big enough for the car and therefore wear quickly.
What owners say
"The 2002 Kia Spectra is generally viewed as a dependable and efficient car, especially favored for its low cost of ownership and good fuel economy. Owners appreciate its reliable performance and comfortable ride, with many mentioning its affordability for repairs. However, some drivers pointed out issues with build quality, such as parts warping and potential stability concerns. The car's performance as a commuter option is acceptable, but it doesn’t have the power or fun factor some might expect from sportier models."
Peformance - sucks, but what do you expect from a little commuter car Build Quality - sucks even more... parts of the dash are warping due to sun/heat exposure Appearance - it's okay, but it's our commuter/beater Cost of Ownership - okay... picked her up for $3500 and it's now almost 150k mi and still has a lot of life left... gonna run this to the ground Fun Factor - ??? LOL!
June 27, 2009this is one dependable car, from my perspective. It has a 4 cylinder engine and has good braking and handling . Although the car is lightweight, so if it is windy outside, then you will notice some moving around. The appearance is decent, both inside and out. Not much maintenance needed except the routine oil change. I have 70,000 miles on it and it is still running good. The seating is comfortable, but wished the steering column was adjustable.
October 25, 2008this car has a marvelous ride comfort with very good features .a nice car with very less issues ,good fuel economy and xcellent pick.at this price range you cant afford such a comfortable and nice sedan with enough boot space
September 4, 2010What owners say
Peformance - sucks, but what do you expect from a little commuter car Build Quality - sucks even more... parts of the dash are warping due to sun/heat exposure Appearance - it's okay, but it's our commuter/beater Cost of Ownership - okay... picked her up for $3500 and it's now almost 150k mi and still has a lot of life left... gonna run this to the ground Fun Factor - ??? LOL!
June 27, 2009this is one dependable car, from my perspective. It has a 4 cylinder engine and has good braking and handling . Although the car is lightweight, so if it is windy outside, then you will notice some moving around. The appearance is decent, both inside and out. Not much maintenance needed except the routine oil change. I have 70,000 miles on it and it is still running good. The seating is comfortable, but wished the steering column was adjustable.
October 25, 2008this car has a marvelous ride comfort with very good features .a nice car with very less issues ,good fuel economy and xcellent pick.at this price range you cant afford such a comfortable and nice sedan with enough boot space
September 4, 2010This car is underestimated. It is reliable, efficient, and quick as well. I got a stick shift and I love driving this car. It has a sporty look as well and can fit four comfortably. Pieces are easy to find and not too expensive. Great car.
February 1, 2010Its great on gas, and parts are cheap. I can do many repairs myself. For cheap, reliable, transportation nothing beats it. I'm glad I own it every time I go to the gas pump. The hatchback is great for moving stuff. It could never survive an accident, even at low speeds. Good value car.
July 24, 2008This car never let us down or made one hiccup. But it had the cheapest paint job I ever saw!
December 16, 2007Good acceleration for a four cylinder, Strong braking, tight steering but feels like it would roll over before sliding on pavement, a lot of rattling inside the cabin, Looks like every other compact on the road, great gas mileage, expensive parts compared to the MSRP of the car.
October 4, 2009this car is very comfortable.its a very stable car.its acceleration is good.its cst of ownership is less.overall it is good car.its a fun car to drive.there is only one issue in this car that is brakes but it can be resolved easily.......
August 16, 2009
