For 2007 Kia re-tooled the Spectra5 to improve the ease of the vehicle's maneuverability and the level of comfort and quietness offered by this sporty little hatchback's ride. (The legroom for tall passengers who try to sit in the back is still a little cramped, but overall the cabin is spacious for a car of this class.)

Under the hood there's a 2-liter engine with four cylinders that can be configured as either a four-speed automatic or a five-speed manual (both with overdrive.) Expect to rack up 27 mpg for driving in town and 33 to 35 on the highway. That impressive degree of fuel economy is one of the big drawing points for the Spectra5 as is the price tag -- an opening MSRP of $15,995.

Aesthetically, you'll find a spoiler integrated in the front of the vehicle with an upgraded dashboard for the interior as well as a more powerful audio system than that offered in previous models. The suspension is sport-tuned and the airbag array includes six separate units.

Reviewers do complain about excessive engine noise during acceleration and the fact that ABS is not offered as a standard feature. Otherwise, you get good bang for the buck with the 2007 Kia Spectra5. It's a low-priced, flexible hatchback with good fuel-economy, a genre of automobile that's looking better and better in the face of high gasoline prices.