Standard equipment on the 2009 Kia Spectra includes dual 12-volt power outlets in the center console, a 60/40 split-folding rear seat, a rear defroster, and a tilt steering column. Anti-lock brakes remain optional on the Spectra.

Front side airbags, as well as side curtain airbags for all outboard passengers, are standard on all Spectras. In federal government crash tests, the 2009 Kia Spectra earns five stars for frontal protection and four stars for side-impact protection. The insurance-affiliated IIHS rates the Spectra with an Acceptable score in frontal protection and Marginal score in side protection. Those accepting only the safest will want to look elsewhere. The Spectra comes well equipped, but its interior appointments are a weakness it's very basic in design, which is fine, but it lacks the lustrous materials and cohesive styling that's now par for the course, even among bargain-priced rides. The 2009 Kia Spectra has quite a bit of seating space, with a nicely proportioned height-adjustable driver's seat. Last year the Kia Spectra5 received a makeover from the front doors back, with hatchback convenience and a tall roofline that continues almost all the way to the rear of the vehicle, yielding impressive cargo space-especially when taking advantage of the fold-flat backseats. The SX models are distinguished by their black mesh grille, fog lights, rear spoiler, and larger 16-inch wheels. Note that these models have increased road noise, though. The Spectra5 and the SX sedan feature wider tires that make these versions much more enjoyable to drive if you routinely navigate curvy roads, with only a slight change in ride quality. The 2009 Kia Spectra5 and the SX sedan have sportier suspension tuning, but the standard Spectra sedan favors ride comfort over sporty handling.

2009 kia spectra sx