2004 Kia Spectra

All-New 2004 Kia Spectra Makes World Premier in Detroit

Four-Door Sedan Offers Best-In-Class Standard Safety Features, Interior Volume
Kia Motors America (KMA) unveiled the all-new 2004 Kia Spectra four-door compact sedan today at the North American International Auto Show. The best selling, most recognized nameplate from Kia in the Ú.S. market, the all-new Spectra features dynamic styling and a longer wheelbase, a wider track and more horsepower than its predecessor for better handling characteristics and improved performance. The new Spectra also delivers best-in-class standard safety features, including six airbags with full-length side-curtain airbags, and four-wheel disc brakes.

Already a segment leader in value and warranty coverage in a hyper-competitive segment, the all-new Spectra's longer wheelbase and increased width and height contribute to the sedan's class-leading 97 cubic feet of passenger room. Add in the fact that the Spectra will be the lowest priced vehicle in the Ú.S. to offer a side-curtain air bag system and it is easy to see why the new more desirable, more substantial Spectra will stand out from the competition.

'The 2004 Kia Spectra is another excellent example of Kia's continued commitment to move beyond our traditional strengths of high value by delivering stylish, fun-to-drive vehicles featuring high levels of comfort, roominess and a class-leading array of safety features,' said Peter M. Butterfield, president, Kia Motors America. 'The Kia brand appeals to consumers' desire to find the best value for the money, and the new Spectra will exceed expectations with its high levels of quality and comprehensive equipment not traditionally found in a compact sedan. (concept carz)'

• With total interior room of 97 cubic feet, the Spectra has the roomiest cabin in its segment, and features as much or more interior space than many larger sedans.

• The 2004 Spectra's trunk capacity is significantly larger than ever before. At 12.2 cubic feet of storage space, the larger trunk volume is a gain of nearly 2 cubic feet over the previous generation vehicle.

Últimate Safety and Security at a Tremendous Value

One of the biggest stories about the all-new Spectra is its unprecedented level of safety features for a vehicle in its class. The Spectra is equipped with a high level of safety equipment that moves the four-door sedan to the head of the compact class.

• The all-new Spectra features six standard air bags, including dual advanced front and front seat-mounted side air bags, and full-length side curtain air bags. To ensure that the front air bags are deployed properly, sensors controlling the front supplemental restraints determine whether the seat belt is buckled and gauge the severity of a frontal impact before deployment.

• Spectra will be the only vehicle in its segment with standard full-length side curtain air bags, and the lowest priced car in the Ú.S. to offer this feature as standard equipment.

• The 2004 Spectra comes equipped with standard four-wheel disc brakes, with anti-lock brakes optional on the EX trim level.

• Additional safety features include: front seatbelt pre-tensioners and force limiters, 3-point seatbelts for all five seating positions, Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) and child safety door latches.

More Power + More Torque = Increased Performance

For 2004, all Spectra models feature increased horsepower and torque, better fuel economy and reduced emissions from the previous-generation vehicle.

• Spectra's new 2.0-liter DOHC engine, which now incorporates continuously variable valve timing, produces 14 more horsepower for a total of 138 hp, and 16 lbs.-ft. more torque for a total of 135 lbs.-ft.

• Featuring multi-port electronic fuel injection, the new engine provides more standard horsepower than many competing vehicles in the segment, including the Honda Civic LX, Toyota Corolla LE, Nissan Sentra S and Ford Focus SE.

• Spectra's new engine can be mated to either a five-speed manual or an optional, electronically controlled four-speed automatic transmission. (posted on conceptcarz.com)

• Fuel economy for vehicles equipped with the four-speed automatic transmission is expected to improve from 22-mpg city and 30-mpg highway to 25-mpg city and 34-mpg highway.

Improved Ride, Handling & Responsiveness

Únlike many compact sedans that offer low-tech, entry-level suspension layouts, the 2004 Spectra features an all-independent suspension for responsive handling and ride comfort.

• Spectra's suspension layout uses MacPherson struts in front and a multi-link design in the rear, and was carefully tuned to achieve the optimum balance between a comfortable ride and responsive handling.

• Únlike several competitors, front and rear stabilizer bars are standard on all Spectra models. Aiding handling is a precise rack-and-pinion steering system equipped with engine-speed-sensitive power assist.

Packaged for Comfort and Convenience at the Right Price

The all-new four-door Spectra is available in two trim levels: LX and EX.

Like all of Kia's vehicles, each model features an impressive list of standard features inside and out, including: auto-off headlights, AM/FM/CD audio system with six speakers and door-mounted tweeters, height adjustable steering column, tachometer, six-way adjustable driver's seat, digital clock, tinted glass, rear window defroster and dual map lights with sunglasses holder.

Major options for the LX trim level include four-speed automatic transmission with overdrive, air conditioning, rear spoiler and carpeted floor mats.

Source - Kia

Kia Spectra is Big on Space

Company's New Compact Sedan Features More Room Than Any Vehicle In Its Class
The Kia Spectra started life as a smooth compact sedan with a cool personality. Reliable and affordable, it quickly became the most recognized nameplate in the Kia product lineup. With Spectra, Kia showed a whole generation of young drivers that fun doesn't have to cost a fortune.

Now, Kia is ready to do it again with the completely redesigned 2004 Spectra that updates the compact sedan with a wider, more aggressive stance and a longer wheelbase. The new Spectra's dimensions help to create an astounding 97 cubic feet of passenger space inside the cabin. Spectra's passenger volume is clearly the largest in the compact sedan segment, making the sedan comfortable, yet sporty and fun-to-drive.

The compact sedan segment is typically one that most people associate with boring, 'boxy' small cars. To compete in this segment, Kia believes it must offer consumers a vehicle that includes a host of desirable features and a distinctive exterior design, blending style with character both inside and out.

'The all-new Spectra is the latest example of Kia's ability to deliver innovative new products with a stylish design, desirable features, strong performance and class-leading safety at an incredible value to the consumer,' said Kia Motors America president and CEO Peter M. Butterfield. 'But the Spectra also represents much more to the company as it has been our most recognized nameplate for some time, and the 2004 Spectra's enhanced performance and exceptional comfort will only help to further the compact sedan's reputation as a tremendous value.'

The Spectra will go head-to-head with the likes of the Toyota Corolla, Honda Civic, Ford Focus and Chevrolet Cavalier. Those vehicles are the key nameplates in a segment that is one of the largest in the auto market with sales of more than two million vehicles in 2003. By following the Kia formula that has made it one of the fastest-growing brands in Ú.S. history, Spectra will offer more than the buyer expects, including a level of comfort and convenience features and a range of standard safety equipment usually found at the higher end of the market – but at a lower-than-expected price.

The target buyers for the all-new Spectra fall primarily into Generation X (aged 25-34), and are defined by their need for individuality and desire to express themselves and their unique style. Kia expects the typical buyer to be evenly split among men and women, with a majority of customers not yet having children, and having a median income greater than $45,000 per year.

'Spectra has been an important product for Kia for a long time as it has attracted large numbers of customers to the brand,' said Walter Anderson, vice president of marketing, Kia Motors America. 'We believe the 2004 Spectra will continue to be a popular choice with buyers in the compact sedan segment, and will also show consumers that you don't have to pay a high price for safety technologies such as side curtain air bags and four-wheel disc brakes.'

A strategic goal of the compact sedan is to erase the outdated perception of Kia as a maker focused exclusively on inexpensive, entry-level cars. The company has proven its ability to attract more affluent buyers with such products as the Sedona minivan, Sorento SÚV and Amanti large premium sedan, and the all-new Spectra is loaded with an impressive list of standard features and technologies to apply these features to entry-level vehicles for younger buyers.

For Kia, now is the perfect time to introduce the all-new Spectra. Following the successful launches of the Sedona minivan and Sorento mid-size SÚV, the company recently launched the Amanti large premium sedan, a segment Kia had never competed in before. In a little more than two years the Kia product lineup has grown from two to eight vehicles, with more and more customers shopping the Kia brand than ever before. Spectra is Kia's latest effort to show the automotive world that the company remains on track to achieve its objective of creating a larger presence in the Ú.S. market with a broader range of products that offer high levels of quality, value and safety for American consumers.

The 2004 Kia Spectra four-door sedan will arrive in showrooms in late spring with pricing to be announced closer to launch. The Spectra will be sold as the Kia 'Cerato' in European and Asian markets.

Source - Kia

All-New 2004 Kia Spectra Meets Cleaner Air Requirements

Four-Door Sedan Also Offers Best-In-Class Standard Safety Features
Kia Motors America (KMA) today joined with the Ú.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and other automotive manufacturers in displaying vehicles that meet the EPA's more stringent Tier 2 emissions standards at the Ronald Reagan Federal Building in the nation's Capitol. Representing Kia at the event is the redesigned 2004 Spectra, Kia's best selling, most recognized nameplate in the Ú.S. market, which debuted earlier this month in Detroit at the North American International Auto Show. In addition to providing lower emissions, the Spectra also delivers best-in-class standard safety features, including six airbags with full-length side-curtain airbags, and four-wheel disc brakes.

'This vehicle offers what consumers are looking for—performance, safety, and comfort at an affordable price. At the same time, the new Spectra is a cleaner, greener vehicle,' said Peter M. Butterfield, president and CEO, Kia Motors America. 'As a leading seller for Kia, we are pleased that these new vehicles are contributing to a cleaner environment.'

A New Design, Inside & Out
Kia believes the redesigned 2004 Spectra will stand out from the crowd with styling elements and character not normally associated with the compact segment. Built on a new platform with a longer wheelbase and increased overall width and height from its predecessor, the all-new Spectra offers a more agile, athletic stance and a more substantial, yet modern, appearance with its sculpted exterior design and class-leading interior volume.

With total interior room of 97 cubic feet, the Spectra has the roomiest cabin in its segment, and features as much or more interior space than many larger sedans.
The 2004 Spectra's trunk capacity is significantly larger than ever before. At 12.2 cubic feet of storage space, the larger trunk volume is a gain of nearly 2 cubic feet over the previous generation vehicle.
Últimate Safety and Security at a Tremendous Value
One of the biggest stories about the all-new Spectra is its unprecedented level of safety features for a vehicle in its class. The Spectra is equipped with a high level of safety equipment that moves the four-door sedan to the head of the compact class.

The all-new Spectra features six standard air bags, including dual advanced front and front seat-mounted side air bags, and full-length side curtain air bags. To ensure that the front air bags are deployed properly, sensors controlling the front supplemental restraints determine whether the seat belt is buckled and gauge the severity of a frontal impact before deployment.
Spectra will be the only vehicle in its segment with standard full-length side curtain air bags, and the lowest priced car in the Ú.S. to offer this feature as standard equipment.
The 2004 Spectra comes equipped with standard four-wheel disc brakes, with anti-lock brakes optional on the EX trim level. Additional safety features include: front seatbelt pre-tensioners and force limiters, 3-point seatbelts for all five seating positions, Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) and child safety door latches.
More Power + More Torque = Increased Performance
For 2004, all Spectra models feature increased horsepower and torque, better fuel economy and reduced emissions from the previous-generation vehicle.

Spectra's new 2.0-liter DOHC engine, which now incorporates continuously variable valve timing, produces 14 more horsepower for a total of 138 hp, and 16 lbs.-ft. more torque for a total of 135 lbs.-ft.
Featuring multi-port electronic fuel injection, the new engine provides more standard horsepower than many competing vehicles in the segment, including the Honda Civic LX, Toyota Corolla LE, Nissan Sentra S and Ford Focus SE.
Spectra's new engine can be mated to either a five-speed manual or an optional, electronically controlled four-speed automatic transmission. (posted on conceptcarz.com)
Fuel economy for vehicles equipped with the four-speed automatic transmission is expected to improve from 22-mpg city and 30-mpg highway to 25-mpg city and 34-mpg highway.
Improved Ride, Handling & Responsiveness
Únlike many compact sedans that offer low-tech, entry-level suspension layouts, the 2004 Spectra features an all-independent suspension for responsive handling and ride comfort.

Spectra's suspension layout uses MacPherson struts in front and a multi-link design in the rear, and was carefully tuned to achieve the optimum balance between a comfortable ride and responsive handling.
Únlike several competitors, front and rear stabilizer bars are standard on all Spectra models. Aiding handling is a precise rack-and-pinion steering system equipped with engine-speed-sensitive power assist.
Packaged for Comfort and Convenience at the Right Price
The all-new four-door Spectra is available in two trim levels: LX and EX.

Like all of Kia's vehicles, each model features an impressive list of standard features inside and out, including: auto-off headlights, AM/FM/CD audio system with six speakers and door-mounted tweeters, height adjustable steering column, tachometer, six-way adjustable driver's seat, digital clock, tinted glass, rear window defroster and dual map lights with sunglasses holder.

Major options for the LX trim level include four-speed automatic transmission with overdrive, air conditioning, rear spoiler and carpeted floor mats.

The Spectra EX model offers additional standard equipment, including: air conditioning, power windows, power door locks with remote keyless entry, dual body-color heated power outside mirrors and front fog lights. Optional equipment includes four-speed automatic transmission with overdrive, cruise control, alloy wheels, power moonroof with tilt, rear spoiler, carpeted floor mats and a body kit that adds a front spoiler and rear valence.

The 2004 Kia Spectra is built in Hwasung, South Korea, and will be available in showrooms in late spring. Pricing will be announced closer to launch.

'KMA appreciates the opportunity to join the EPA and other automotive manufacturers at this important event to show our support of the effort to build cleaner, greener vehicles for the Ú.S. market,' added Butterfield.

Source - Kia

Kia Announces Pricing for All-New Spectra Four-Door Sedan

Aggressive Pricing Adds Further Value To Compact Sedan Offering Class-Leading Standard Safety Features, Interior Volume
At the Chicago International Auto Show today, Kia Motors America (KMA) announced pricing for the all-new 2004 Spectra four-door compact sedan with a manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) starting at $12,620. Arriving at Kia dealerships in mid-March, the Spectra is built on a new platform and offers class-leading interior volume, increased horsepower, standard four-wheel disc brakes and an unprecedented level of safety equipment for a vehicle in its class. The destination charge will be $540 per vehicle.

'We're confident that this pricing, combined with a generous list of standard equipment and a priority on safety, will set the Spectra apart from other compact sedans in the market,' said Peter M. Butterfield, president, Kia Motors America. 'Spectra is an important nameplate for the Kia brand, and another example of this company's commitment to deliver stylish, fun-to-drive vehicles with high levels of comfort, roominess and class-leading safety features.'

Available in two trim levels -- LX and EX -- the all-new four-door Spectra features a longer wheelbase and increased width and height compared with its predecessor, contributing to the sedan's 97 cubic feet of passenger room. All models come equipped with six airbags, including standard full-length side curtain air bags. A new 2.0-liter DOHC engine incorporates continuously variable valve timing (CVVT), producing 14 more horsepower than the previous generation Spectra, for a total of 138 hp1.

The comprehensively-equipped 'entry-level' LX model's MSRP begins at $12,620, and includes such features as six airbags, including full-length side curtain airbags; 4-wheel power disc brakes; engine speed-sensitive power rack and pinion steering; 5-speed manual transmission; AM/FM/CD audio system with six speakers including door-mounted tweeters; tachometer; six-way adjustable driver's seat; height adjustable steering column; auto-off headlights; digital clock; tinted glass; rear window defroster and dual map lights with sunglass holder.

The EX model will have a base MSRP of $13,750, which, in addition to the standard equipment on the LX, adds features such as air conditioning, power windows, power door locks with remote keyless entry, dual body-color heated power outside mirrors and front fog lights.

MSRPs for LX and EX models with the available electronically-controlled four-speed automatic transmission will be $13,595 and $14,725, respectively.

Like all Kia models, the new Spectra will be covered by Kia's comprehensive warranty program, which includes a 10-year/100,000-mile limited powertrain warranty and a five-year/60,000-mile limited basic warranty.

Kia Motors America, the Ú.S. sales, marketing and service arm of Kia Motors Corp. in Seoul, South Korea, offers a full line-up of vehicles, including: Rio subcompact sedan and Rio Cinco wagon; 4-door and 5-door Spectra compact sedans; Optima midsize sedan; Sorento midsize SÚV; Sedona minivan; and Amanti large premium sedan. (concept carz)

Source - Kia

Kia's All-New 2005 Spectra5 Makes U.S. Debut in New York

Five-Door Hatchback Is Sportier Sibling Of Korean Automaker's Compact Sedan
When Kia Motors America (KMA) unveiled the completely redesigned 2004 Spectra5 compact sedan earlier this year in Detroit, it promised a sportier follow-up later in the season. Today, at the New York International Automobile Show, that promise was fulfilled as the fastest growing Korean automaker pulled the wraps off the 2005 Spectra5, an all-new, sport-tuned and aggressively styled five-door hatchback version of the Spectra sedan. (concept carz)

Building upon the strong foundation provided by its sedan sibling, the Spectra5 features class-leading safety equipment and adds a new sport-tuned, four-wheel independent suspension and 16-inch wheels and tires for better steering response and turn-in, a strut tower bar -- the first ever on a Kia -- for a stiffer chassis and better handling, and design touches such as a rear spoiler, fog lights, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob with perforated leather, sport fabric on the seats and door panels and metal-finish trim throughout the interior, including metal pedals.

'The Spectra5 was designed to be the sportiest Kia ever,' said Peter M. Butterfield, president and chief executive officer, Kia Motors America. 'As our brand continues to grow it was imperative to develop the Spectra5 not just as a complement to the four-door sedan, but rather a fun, exciting vehicle that stands out from the crowd and meets the needs of our young, active target audience.'

The 2005 Spectra5 will take its place alongside its sedan counterpart in Kia's growing product portfolio, and is the automaker's most recent new product designed specifically to attract a broader spectrum of American consumers to the brand. Kia believes the sporty Spectra5 will eventually comprise 30% of Spectra sales in the Ú.S.

Designed to be Different
Inside and out, the Spectra5 looks dramatically different than the four-door Spectra sedan, although the two vehicles share the same new platform, providing a longer wheelbase and increased overall width and height from the previous generation vehicles.

Adding a sportier, more extroverted personality to the sculpted exterior design of the sedan, the Spectra5 features an assertive front end highlighted by a black mesh grille and black-out headlights, a deeper, more aggressive front spoiler, fog lights and rear valance and spoiler. The Spectra5 maintains the sedan's sharp crease-line that runs below and parallel to the green house, as well as the distinctive, muscular arches at each fender, complimenting its wide, aggressive stance and its standard 16-inch, eight-spoke alloy wheels.

Like its sedan counterpart, the Spectra5 offers best-in-class passenger room at 98.1 cubic feet, larger than its key competitors, the Mazda3, Ford Focus ZX5 and Toyota Matrix. The Spectra5's cargo capacity of 18.3 cubic feet is significantly larger than the previous generation five-door Spectra.

Safety is a Priority
The all-new Spectra5 follows Kia's brand philosophy of offering best-in-class safety equipment, including:

Six standard air bags, including dual advanced front and front seat-mounted side air bags, and full-length side curtain air bags.
Standard four-wheel disc brakes, with four-sensor, four-channel anti-lock brakes available as optional equipment.
To ensure that the front air bags are deployed properly, sensors controlling the front supplemental restraints determine whether the seat belt is buckled and gauge the severity of a frontal impact before deployment.

Additional safety features include: front seatbelt pre-tensioners and force limiters, 3-point seatbelts for all five seating positions, Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) and child safety door latches.

Tuned To Be Sporty
Incorporating continuously variable valve timing (CVVT) and multi-port fuel injection, the Spectra5 is powered by a new 2.0-liter DOHC engine that produces 138-horsepower and 135 lbs.-ft. of torque. The Spectra5 offers more standard horsepower than many competing vehicles in the segment, including the Toyota Matrix, and Ford Focus ZX5. A five-speed manual transmission with improved shift linkage is standard, while an electronically controlled four-speed automatic transmission is available as an option.

A new, sport-tuned four-wheel independent suspension provides the Spectra5 with an athletic stance, while the addition of a strut tower bar provides additional torsional rigidity for better handling.

Front and rear stabilizer bars are standard on all Spectra models, a rarity in the compact class, and aiding handling is a precise rack-and-pinion steering system equipped with engine-speed-sensitive power assist.

A Dynamic Package
Available in one trim level, the Spectra5 offers an impressive list of standard features including: air conditioning, AM/FM/CD audio system with six speakers, power windows, power door locks with remote keyless entry, power heated outside mirrors, rear wiper/washer, and a height-adjustable steering column.

Inside, modern forms and a two-tone color scheme create a clean, integrated look to complement the Spectra5's sport cloth seats and metal-finish trim on the center stack and around the door handles. Adding to its sporty look and feel, the Spectra5 also features a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, as well as metal pedals, a first for Kia.

The 2005 Spectra5 is built in Hwasung, South Korean and will be covered by Kia's 10-year or 100,000-mile limited powertrain warranty. Pricing will be announced closer to the vehicle summer 2004 launch.

Source - Kia