[PaleGreen]

This little runabout from Kia really impressed me. Sharp styling, versatile configuration, and a great level of content for around $14,000.

2.0 VVT I4 - 138hp/136tq
Std. 4 wheel disc brakes (ABS avail.)
Std. side curtain airbags
5/60 warranty. 10/100 powertrain

This could present some very stiff competition to the Aveo, Aerio & base Vibe.

 

[Ming]

The specs and price say it won't be competition for the Aveo - but should be competition for the Ford Focus, Honda Civic, perhaps Scions as well.

The Spectra is more like the Chevy Optra 5 - price and spec wise. A new KIA Rio should present competition for Aveo.

VVT from a Korean automaker - is that a first?

I like it too, but I miss the funky Spectra hatch that looked like a sedan.

 

[PaleGreen]

Originally posted by Ming@Apr 13 2004, 10:05 PM
The specs and price say it won't be competition for the Aveo...

VVT from a Korean automaker - is that a first?

True - I was thinking of the Spectra LX sedan, which stickers for about $12k, right in line with an Aveo LS.

Not sure about the Koreans & VVT, but spec-wise, this engine is very similar to the Ecotec:

HP:
Kia - 138 @ 6000
Chevy - 140 @ 5600

TQ:
Kia - 136 @ 4500
Chevy - 150 @ 4000

Fuel Econ: (auto)
Kia - 25/34
Chevy - 24/34

 

[cyboexpo2002]

Looks like a Mazda (sorry Mazda)