The 2007 KIA Spectra belongs to the second generation of Kia's compact car, offered as both a sedan and a versatile Spectra5 five-door hatchback. This model year fell within its 2004-2009 production run, aiming to provide an affordable and practical option in a competitive segment. Key trims included the base LX, mid-range EX, and the sportier SX. New, its pricing ranged roughly from $13,000 to $18,000, making it stand out as a value-oriented choice with decent standard features for its price point, appealing to budget-conscious buyers.
The Good
The 2007 KIA Spectra's primary advantage is its exceptional value, offering practical affordability and decent fuel efficiency for daily commuting. Owners appreciate its reliable, straightforward performance and surprising comfort for its class. Its unpretentious design and ease of ownership appeal to practical buyers, while its dependability as a no-frills workhorse fosters a sense of trust and smart financial decision-making.
The Bad
Known weaknesses for the 2007 KIA Spectra include its somewhat uninspired performance and a cabin with notable road noise at highway speeds. Interior materials, while durable, can feel a bit basic. Owners should also watch out for potential rust, especially in colder climates, and common issues with suspension components and power windows as the vehicle ages.
2007 KIA Spectra: Quick Overview
- Engine: The 2007 KIA Spectra was equipped with a single engine option for the North American market: a 2.0-liter DOHC (Dual Overhead Camshaft) 4-cylinder engine.
- Horsepower: This engine produced 138 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 136 lb-ft of torque at 4,500 rpm, which was competitive for its compact class at the time.
- Fuel Economy:
— Manual Transmission: Approximately 24 MPG city / 32 MPG highway.
— Automatic Transmission: Approximately 23 MPG city / 30 MPG highway. - 0-60 Times: Performance was adequate for daily driving, with 0-60 mph acceleration typically ranging between 9 to 10 seconds, depending on the transmission and specific driving conditions.
- Towing Capacity: The 2007 KIA Spectra was not generally rated or recommended for significant towing. While some owners might consider light utility trailers, it lacks the structural reinforcement and powertrain cooling for substantial towing, making it impractical for such tasks.
- Trim-Level Features:
— LX (Sedan): The base model, offering essential features like power windows, power door locks, a four-speaker AM/FM/CD audio system, manual air conditioning, and 15-inch steel wheels.
— EX (Sedan): This mid-level trim built upon the LX, adding convenience features such as remote keyless entry, power heated side mirrors, an upgraded audio system (often with MP3 capability), cruise control, and often optional 15-inch alloy wheels.
— SX (Sedan): The sportier trim. It included a sport-tuned suspension for improved handling, 16-inch alloy wheels, fog lights, unique front and rear fascias, a rear spoiler, chrome exhaust tip, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob.
— Spectra5 (Hatchback): This 5-door model often mirrored the EX and SX trims in terms of features, frequently including items like alloy wheels, fog lights, and sportier accents as standard. Its main appeal was the enhanced cargo versatility offered by the hatchback design, with a larger and more accessible rear storage area. All trims featured dual front and front-side impact airbags as standard safety equipment.
2007 KIA Spectra Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2007 |
| Make | KIA |
| Model | Spectra |
| Trim | - |
| Style | 4-Speed Automatic |
| Type | Sedan |
| Category | Mid-Size Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | South Korea |
| Manufacturing City | WHASUNG |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | 2972 pounds |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | 57.90 inches |
| Overall Length | 177.20 inches |
| Overall Width | 68.30 inches |
| Wheelbase Length | 102.80 inches |
| Standard Seating | 5 |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 2.0-L L-4 DOHC 16V |
| Engine Size | 2L |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 |
| Transmission | 4-Speed Automatic |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | 4-Speed |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | Non-ABS |
| Steering Type | Rack & Pinion |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $14,895 |
| Invoice Price | $13,925 |
| Delivery Charges | $625 |
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What Problems Does the 2007 KIA Spectra Have?
The 2007 KIA Spectra, while generally considered a reliable economy car, does have several frequently reported problems and long-term reliability concerns that potential owners should be aware of. Many of these issues are typical for vehicles of its age and price point rather than widespread manufacturing defects unique to this model year.
One common concern relates to the engine, specifically the Check Engine Light (CEL) illuminating due to various sensor failures, such as oxygen sensors, camshaft position sensors, or crankshaft position sensors. Idle issues, sometimes related to throttle body or vacuum leaks, have also been reported. Crucially, the 2.0-liter engine uses a timing belt, not a chain, which requires replacement typically every 60,000 miles. Neglecting this maintenance can lead to catastrophic engine damage, a significant long-term concern.
Transmission issues, particularly with the automatic gearbox, include reports of rough shifting, delayed engagement, or solenoid failures as the vehicle ages and mileage accumulates. The manual transmission is generally more robust but clutch wear is inevitable.
Suspension components are another area of common complaints. Owners frequently report premature wear of struts and shocks, leading to a bouncy ride and reduced handling. Control arm bushings and strut mounts can also wear out, causing clunking noises over bumps. Power window regulators and motors are known to fail, requiring replacement. Less common but still reported are issues with the HVAC blend door actuators, affecting temperature control.
Rust is a notable long-term concern, especially for Spectras driven in regions that use road salt. Owners have reported rust forming on the wheel wells, rocker panels, and subframe components.
Regarding recalls, the 2007 KIA Spectra did not have a large number of widespread, high-profile recalls unique to its specific model year. Most recalls in that era were either very specific or part of broader industry campaigns (e.g., Takata airbag inflators, though those primarily impacted later model years of various manufacturers). However, potential buyers should always check the NHTSA website for any open recalls by VIN. Overall, consistent maintenance, particularly timing belt replacement, is key to the Spectra's long-term durability, but expect age-related wear on suspension, electrical, and body components.
One common concern relates to the engine, specifically the Check Engine Light (CEL) illuminating due to various sensor failures, such as oxygen sensors, camshaft position sensors, or crankshaft position sensors. Idle issues, sometimes related to throttle body or vacuum leaks, have also been reported. Crucially, the 2.0-liter engine uses a timing belt, not a chain, which requires replacement typically every 60,000 miles. Neglecting this maintenance can lead to catastrophic engine damage, a significant long-term concern.
Transmission issues, particularly with the automatic gearbox, include reports of rough shifting, delayed engagement, or solenoid failures as the vehicle ages and mileage accumulates. The manual transmission is generally more robust but clutch wear is inevitable.
Suspension components are another area of common complaints. Owners frequently report premature wear of struts and shocks, leading to a bouncy ride and reduced handling. Control arm bushings and strut mounts can also wear out, causing clunking noises over bumps. Power window regulators and motors are known to fail, requiring replacement. Less common but still reported are issues with the HVAC blend door actuators, affecting temperature control.
Rust is a notable long-term concern, especially for Spectras driven in regions that use road salt. Owners have reported rust forming on the wheel wells, rocker panels, and subframe components.
Regarding recalls, the 2007 KIA Spectra did not have a large number of widespread, high-profile recalls unique to its specific model year. Most recalls in that era were either very specific or part of broader industry campaigns (e.g., Takata airbag inflators, though those primarily impacted later model years of various manufacturers). However, potential buyers should always check the NHTSA website for any open recalls by VIN. Overall, consistent maintenance, particularly timing belt replacement, is key to the Spectra's long-term durability, but expect age-related wear on suspension, electrical, and body components.
How long will the 2007 KIA Spectra last?
With proper maintenance, a 2007 KIA Spectra can reliably achieve 150,000 to 200,000 miles, translating to 10 to 15 years of service. Its core engine and transmission are generally quite durable, especially if the critical timing belt replacement schedule is meticulously followed every 60,000 miles. This adherence is paramount for the engine's longevity.
However, long-term durability is challenged by several weaknesses over time. Suspension components such as struts, shocks, and control arm bushings are prone to wear, often requiring replacement past 100,000 miles. Electrical gremlins, particularly power window motor failures, are common. Rust can become a significant issue in regions exposed to road salt, affecting body panels and the undercarriage. Interior plastics, while functional, can show significant wear and tear, and some components like the headliner or seat fabric might degrade.
However, long-term durability is challenged by several weaknesses over time. Suspension components such as struts, shocks, and control arm bushings are prone to wear, often requiring replacement past 100,000 miles. Electrical gremlins, particularly power window motor failures, are common. Rust can become a significant issue in regions exposed to road salt, affecting body panels and the undercarriage. Interior plastics, while functional, can show significant wear and tear, and some components like the headliner or seat fabric might degrade.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 2007 KIA Spectra, being an economy car from its era, featured a relatively modest array of built-in technology and entertainment options. Standard across most trims was an AM/FM stereo with a CD player, often with MP3 playback capability in higher trims. While basic, this system provided fundamental audio entertainment. An auxiliary input jack, for connecting external music devices, might have been available on EX or SX trims, or as a dealer-installed option. Bluetooth connectivity, USB ports, or advanced infotainment screens that are common today were not available. Climate control was a manual system, straightforward and functional.
Driver-assistance features were essentially nonexistent by today's standards. There were no systems like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, or parking sensors. Driving the Spectra was a traditional, hands-on experience, relying solely on driver awareness.
Safety features, however, were respectable for its class. All 2007 Spectra models came standard with dual front airbags and front-seat side-impact airbags, significantly improving occupant protection in collisions. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) were optional on the base LX trim but became standard on the higher EX and SX models, offering improved braking performance in emergency situations.
Crash-test ratings provide further insight into its safety performance:
Driver-assistance features were essentially nonexistent by today's standards. There were no systems like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, or parking sensors. Driving the Spectra was a traditional, hands-on experience, relying solely on driver awareness.
Safety features, however, were respectable for its class. All 2007 Spectra models came standard with dual front airbags and front-seat side-impact airbags, significantly improving occupant protection in collisions. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) were optional on the base LX trim but became standard on the higher EX and SX models, offering improved braking performance in emergency situations.
Crash-test ratings provide further insight into its safety performance:
- National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA):
— Frontal Crash Test (Driver): 5 out of 5 stars
— Frontal Crash Test (Passenger): 4 out of 5 stars
— Side Impact Front (Driver): 4 out of 5 stars
— Side Impact Rear (Passenger): 5 out of 5 stars
— Rollover Rating: 4 out of 5 stars - Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS):
— Moderate Overlap Front: "Acceptable"
— Side Impact: "Poor" for models without side airbags (if any, though most had them standard by 2007), "Acceptable" for models with side airbags (which were standard on the 2007 Spectra).
— Rear Crash Protection/Head Restraints: "Marginal"
— Roof Strength: Not rated by IIHS for this model year.
What Colors Options are Available?
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In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
2007 KIA Spectra Prices and Market Value
When new in 2007, the KIA Spectra had a starting MSRP for the LX sedan around $13,000, while fully-optioned SX sedans or Spectra5 hatchbacks could reach up to $18,000. This competitive pricing was a key selling point.
Today, as a used vehicle, its market price is significantly lower. A well-maintained 2007 Spectra typically ranges from $1,500 to $4,000, highly dependent on mileage, condition, and regional demand. Models with extensive rust or significant mechanical issues will fetch considerably less. The Spectra experienced high initial depreciation, typical for economy cars, losing a large percentage of its value in the first few years. Factors affecting its current resale value include documented maintenance history (especially timing belt replacement), the absence of major rust, working power accessories, and overall cosmetic condition. Its primary value now lies in its affordability as a basic, reliable commuter car.
Today, as a used vehicle, its market price is significantly lower. A well-maintained 2007 Spectra typically ranges from $1,500 to $4,000, highly dependent on mileage, condition, and regional demand. Models with extensive rust or significant mechanical issues will fetch considerably less. The Spectra experienced high initial depreciation, typical for economy cars, losing a large percentage of its value in the first few years. Factors affecting its current resale value include documented maintenance history (especially timing belt replacement), the absence of major rust, working power accessories, and overall cosmetic condition. Its primary value now lies in its affordability as a basic, reliable commuter car.
2007 KIA Spectra Cost of Ownership
The 2007 KIA Spectra is generally very economical to own. Insurance costs are typically low due to its modest new price, low replacement value, and safety ratings. Fuel economy is decent for its class, contributing to affordable running costs. Routine maintenance, such as oil changes and tire rotations, is inexpensive, and parts are widely available and reasonably priced. Common repairs, like suspension components or power window motors, also tend to be budget-friendly in terms of parts and labor. The most significant potential cost is a missed timing belt replacement. Overall, for a buyer seeking minimal long-term ownership expenses, the Spectra presents an excellent, cost-effective option.
2007 KIA Spectra Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
14.00 gallons
City Mileage
27 miles/gallon
Highway Mileage
33 miles/gallon
2007 KIA Spectra Safety Rating
NHTSA
IIHS
2007 KIA Spectra Warranty
Basic
Original warranty
60 months / 60,000 miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
Powertrain
Original warranty
120 months / 100,000 miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
Rust
Original warranty
60 months / 100,000 miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
2007 KIA Spectra Insurance
Insurance for a 2007 KIA Spectra is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Sedan with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2007 KIA Spectra Compare to Other Sedan?
When comparing the 2007 KIA Spectra against key rivals like the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Mazda 3, Nissan Sentra, and its platform-mate, the Hyundai Elantra, its position in the compact segment becomes clear.
In terms of Performance, the Spectra's 138-hp 2.0L engine offered respectable output, placing it roughly on par with the Corolla and Elantra, and slightly ahead of the base Sentra. However, it lacked the refined driving dynamics and engaging feel of the Honda Civic or the sportier Mazda 3. Its acceleration was adequate for daily driving but far from thrilling.
Regarding Features, the Spectra often stood out for its value proposition. It frequently offered a strong list of standard features for its price point, sometimes including side airbags or keyless entry that were optional or absent on similarly priced base models of Japanese competitors. However, the quality of interior materials and overall refinement were generally a step below the Civic, Corolla, and Mazda 3.
Reliability for the Spectra was generally good, with many owners reporting long service lives. However, it was often perceived as being a notch below the legendary "bulletproof" reliability of the Toyota Corolla and Honda Civic, which typically command higher used prices as a result. The Spectra's reliability was very similar to the Hyundai Elantra, sharing many components and engineering principles.
Price was, arguably, the Spectra's strongest competitive edge. Both new and on the used market, it consistently undercut the equivalent Civic and Corolla, offering a more accessible entry point into compact car ownership. It was competitive in price with the Nissan Sentra and Hyundai Elantra.
Recommended Alternatives:
In terms of Performance, the Spectra's 138-hp 2.0L engine offered respectable output, placing it roughly on par with the Corolla and Elantra, and slightly ahead of the base Sentra. However, it lacked the refined driving dynamics and engaging feel of the Honda Civic or the sportier Mazda 3. Its acceleration was adequate for daily driving but far from thrilling.
Regarding Features, the Spectra often stood out for its value proposition. It frequently offered a strong list of standard features for its price point, sometimes including side airbags or keyless entry that were optional or absent on similarly priced base models of Japanese competitors. However, the quality of interior materials and overall refinement were generally a step below the Civic, Corolla, and Mazda 3.
Reliability for the Spectra was generally good, with many owners reporting long service lives. However, it was often perceived as being a notch below the legendary "bulletproof" reliability of the Toyota Corolla and Honda Civic, which typically command higher used prices as a result. The Spectra's reliability was very similar to the Hyundai Elantra, sharing many components and engineering principles.
Price was, arguably, the Spectra's strongest competitive edge. Both new and on the used market, it consistently undercut the equivalent Civic and Corolla, offering a more accessible entry point into compact car ownership. It was competitive in price with the Nissan Sentra and Hyundai Elantra.
Recommended Alternatives:
- Better (if budget allows): If your budget stretches, a used Honda Civic (for better driving dynamics, refinement, and slightly better long-term reliability/resale) or a Toyota Corolla (for ultimate reliability and excellent resale value) would be superior choices. The Mazda 3 offers a sportier driving experience and a nicer interior.
- Similar (budget-friendly): The Hyundai Elantra from the same era is an almost identical twin mechanically and offers a very similar ownership experience. The Nissan Sentra also competes in the same value-oriented segment and can be a comparable alternative if found in good condition.
Final Verdict: Is the 2007 KIA Spectra a Good Sedan?
The 2007 KIA Spectra is an ideal vehicle for budget-conscious buyers, first-time drivers, students, or anyone needing dependable, no-frills A-to-B transportation. It excels as a pragmatic choice for commuters who prioritize low purchase price and economical ownership costs above performance or luxury.
Is it worth buying? Absolutely, but only as a used vehicle, and under specific conditions. A thorough pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic is non-negotiable, focusing on rust, the condition of suspension components, electrical systems (especially power windows), and crucially, verification of timing belt replacement history. Opting for EX or SX trims might offer a slightly more comfortable and feature-rich experience, while the Spectra5 hatchback provides excellent utility. If you find a well-maintained example with documented service records, the 2007 Spectra offers remarkable value as an inexpensive, relatively reliable, and highly affordable used car, perfect for those seeking maximum utility for minimal investment.
Is it worth buying? Absolutely, but only as a used vehicle, and under specific conditions. A thorough pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic is non-negotiable, focusing on rust, the condition of suspension components, electrical systems (especially power windows), and crucially, verification of timing belt replacement history. Opting for EX or SX trims might offer a slightly more comfortable and feature-rich experience, while the Spectra5 hatchback provides excellent utility. If you find a well-maintained example with documented service records, the 2007 Spectra offers remarkable value as an inexpensive, relatively reliable, and highly affordable used car, perfect for those seeking maximum utility for minimal investment.
Jovan
Jovan specializes in interpreting vehicle records and making sense of VIN data. With over 10 years of experience in the automotive data industry, his work ensures that every report is clear, accurate, and useful for car buyers.