On specialized automobile forums, the question is often asked - which budget car should be purchased as the first after a domestic car - Hyundai Accent or Kia Spectra? causes a significant number of answers, but most of them boil down to the statement - the cars are built on the same platform, so there is no significant difference between them. Is it really possible to put an equal sign between the Hyundai Accent and the KIA Spectra?
Hyundai Accent and KIA Spectra - comparison of Korean state employees
Quick look
Honored Workers
If you put the cars side by side, their relationship will become clearly visible - indeed, the KIA and Hyundai brands are part of the same concern. However, among the two “brothers” it will not be difficult to find the older one - Spectra, as well as wheels of increased diameter compared to the Accent. Otherwise, they are very similar - the same smooth lines, fashionable in automotive design of the 90s, narrow radiator grilles and rounded headlights. But the KIA Spectra has a slightly more clearly defined trunk, while the Accent has it lowered down in the manner of liftbacks.
Today we will find out which is better: Hyundai Accent or Kia Spectra. At least, let's try to find out - the differences between these Korean cars, in my opinion, are not very clear.
We will compare cars from the first decade. It was at this time that the production of these models was launched at Russian enterprises. Therefore, it will be interesting to compare the build quality as well.
The first thing we see is the exterior. Therefore, let's start the comparison with the body.
Body
Appearance
Well, the appearance of the cars is so-so, a C grade, I would say. I think the majority will agree with me. They have neither appearance nor grandeur. Sort of gray mice.
The exterior design is typically Korean, in our truest sense. Companies did not bother investing in developing the appearance of models. So they sold like hotcakes: Accent in Russia, Spectra in the USA.
Due to the fact that none of the cars attracted attention, the score remains 0-0.
Dimensions
The Kia Spectra body has a length of 4.51 m, a width of 1.725 m, a height of 1.415 m. The wheelbase length is 2.56 m.
The Hyundai Accent is shorter, narrower and lower. I would say that he is clearly inferior. Its length is 4.235 m (-28 cm in relation to the competitor!!!), width 1.67 m (-5 cm), height 1.395 m (-2 cm). The wheelbase is 2.44 m (-12 cm).
Judging by the size, there is probably much more legroom for rear passengers and trunk volume in the Spectrum than in the Accent. But this is precisely the case when cars of different classes cost the same - that’s why they are compared with each other.
By the way, I mentioned the luggage racks, but did not announce the figures for their volumes. The trunk of a Hyundai sedan has a volume of only 375 liters, while the trunk of a Kia sedan has a volume of 416 liters. The difference of 40 liters, of course, is not significant for large volumes, but in our case it is very much so.
Spectra opens an account for the trunk. 1-0 in his favor.
Quality
The Kia Spectra's body metal is probably of good thickness. This becomes clear the moment you press on the door trim: it does not yield. After all these years, the paintwork on most cars is still in very good condition. It feels like they did it conscientiously. It is very difficult to find rust - the body is galvanized.
As for the Hyundai Accent, it depends. There are many cars with bodies in good condition, many that are rusty and rotten. Perhaps, who takes care of it, what roads they drive on, and how many times they have been in an accident. Some owners note that under the powerful pressure of water when washing a car, the paint peels off the bumpers.
In terms of performance quality, Spectra wins again. The score is 2-0.
Interior
Design
Like the exterior, the interiors of the models do not shine with graceful lines. In the Spectrum, the “stick” of the center console is annoying:
There is cheap simplicity in the Accent:
However, according to reviews from owners, the Accent's interior design is no worse than that of the same VAZs, and it clearly wins in terms of quality. Based on the fact that the cost of the car is in the same price range as the cost of VAZ products of the same years of production (+/- a couple of years), a sedan from Hyundai seems preferable to me. But I digress...
Let's return to the comparison. If we talk about interior design, I don't like either one or the other. But if, nevertheless, I had to choose, then I would probably stop at the Hyundai Accent - the asymmetry of the Kia Spectra console design annoys me. In addition, I like the simple but perfectly readable instrument panel of the first one more than the “tidy” of the second. The accent gets first point. The score is 2-1.
Quality of materials
The quality of materials used to decorate the Kia Spectra's interior is definitely higher. Although the plastic of the console and door trim is nondescript, it is soft. Although of average quality. But this is definitely better than the “wooden” plastic Hyundai Accent.
In principle, it was immediately clear that the latter belonged to a lower “class”. Therefore, one should not expect any revelations from him. But the quality of the interior of the first sedan clearly corresponds to its class.
Fabric inserts are good in both cars. But the quality of the seat filling seems to be better in the Accent - in the Spectra, the sidewalls of the front seats are often dented, this is definitely a “jamb” of the developers.
Sound insulation is definitely better in the Spectra - to match the class. I can't say that it's good, but it's a little there. But regarding the “noise” of the Accent, it seems that the designers did not bother with it. Like, you have to do it yourself. And so the car couldn’t be cheaper.
In general, if you do not take into account the problem with the side panels of the front seats, the overall impression of the interior materials and sound insulation is better in the Kia sedan. He gets a point. The score is 3-1.
Ergonomics
The interior of the Kia Spectra is definitely more spacious - remember how much larger its body is than that of the Hyundai Accent. The Spectra has a wider and longer interior. There is more space in both the front and rear.
The landing is comfortable, in principle, both there and there. In the sense - for the front passengers. However, the front seats of the Accent have more developed lateral support; judging by the reviews, it is more pleasant to sit than in Russian cars.
In the rear, there is expectedly more space in the Kia - both for legs and overhead.
Hyundai has a problem with this - in fact, it will only be comfortable for small people or children.
Ride quality
Both models have a fairly comfortable suspension. The reason is the MacPherson strut at the front and the multi-link at the rear. "Multi-lever". At Accent. For a sedan in a higher class, like the Spectra, this is logical, but for a car like the Accent, I think it’s cool. From this perspective, both cars deserve attention, but the score remains the same.
The engines that are most often found on the market are:
- Spectra 1.6 with 101 hp. at 5500 rpm and torque 145 Nm at 4500 rpm
- the Accent 1.5 has 102 hp. at 5800 rpm and torque 134 at 3000 rpm.
Judging by the reviews, an automatic transmission cannot be considered as an option in any case when purchasing a Spectra - in most cars it is already worn out and will require replacement in the very near future. In principle, the automatic transmission of these cars showed its worst side from the very beginning, because... required “surgical intervention” often after 30 thousand kilometers. It's just a fiasco.
The Accent does not have such a problem, but its engine is definitely not the power unit for which it is more advisable to choose an automatic transmission than a manual transmission. He's weak, to be honest. Acceleration to 100 km/h from a standstill with an automatic transmission takes 4 seconds more.
In principle, Kia owners also talk about the sluggish nature of the engine. But here, it seems, the opinion is unanimous, in contrast to the diverse opinions of Hyundai owners. Judging by recent reviews, some people like the Accent's dynamics, others don't. For reference: According to official data, a Spectra with a manual transmission accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in 11.6 seconds, and an Accent with a manual transmission in 10.5 seconds. Even VAZs are capable of more... For the best dynamics, the last one gets a point. The score becomes equal 3-2.
By consumption. The passport data states that the Kia Spectra “eats” 7.1 liters in mixed mode. But the owners talk about 9-10 liters, even in leisurely mode. Regarding the Hyundai Accent, the official data is closer to the truth: the declared 7.5 liters. in a mixed cycle are confirmed by the owners of this model. For this, the Accent gets another point. The score was level, 3-3.
conclusions
Let's summarize. If there is a question of choosing between the Kia Spectra and the Hyundai Accent, then I see here only one point on which you need to decide in order to understand what to take. Moreover, the cars scored an equal number of points. In general, if you need a larger interior and a larger trunk, then it is better to buy a Spectra. If you need a car, as they say, “for the driver” - faster, lower consumption, more comfortable seating - then the choice should definitely be made in favor of the Accent.
Video reviews and test drives
1.6 $13 989.
The domestic automobile industry is being revived today thanks to the production of foreign cars at Russian factories. Apparently, this way is very effective. The very fact that we can conduct comparative tests of such cars speaks volumes. So, we decided to put three representatives of the new Russian automobile industry next to each other. The participants in our test are the so-called “budget” cars: Hyundai Accent, KIA Spectra and Renault Logan. All of them are produced by Russian enterprises. The prices for these cars, depending on the configuration, vary from $9,000 to $14,000. So, as you can see, it’s a stretch to call them an alternative to the “masterpieces” of domestic auto giants. And yet, these are some of the cheapest foreign cars, even though they were assembled in our country. Let's try to figure out what the buyer gets when purchasing one of these cars.
Of course, design is not included in the list of advantages of our subjects. For example, Accent and Spectra are typical representatives of the Korean automobile industry of the end of that century, so their appearance cannot be called ultra-modern, although they look quite harmonious. As for the Renault Logan, the angular shape of its body and the disproportionately high rear indicate that the creators were faced with the task of making the most simple, practical and cheap car possible. This is not surprising, because Logan was originally created with the expectation of sales in third countries. What internal equipment will the cars offer us? The most “empty” is the test Hyundai Accent. However, even in the minimum configuration ($11,770) this car is equipped with air conditioning, power steering and a cassette player. The range of options for everyday driving, you see, is quite sufficient. The glass, however, will have to be opened manually. But the steering column is height adjustable, which is not the case, for example, in the Renault Logan even at the maximum level of equipment. The test copy of Logan ($13,989) is the most, as they say, “sophisticated” of the entire line of modifications of this model. The set of options here is quite ordinary: air conditioning, audio system with CD player, electric drive and heated side mirrors, power windows. By the way, you won’t immediately find the control buttons for the latter. And if the front ones, located along the edges of the center console, are easy to find, then you will have to look for the rear ones: they are hidden between the front seats, behind the handbrake. Due to the rather high seating position, it will be awkward for both rear passengers and those sitting in front to reach these keys. And in general, convenience in Logan, apparently, was the last thing they cared about. The most comfortable of the three, with almost the same set of options, was the Spectra ($13,320). A slight advantage in external dimensions and wheelbase makes itself felt. Unlike the Logan, there is no need for a high seating position, and a tall driver does not have to tuck his legs in forlornly: in the Spectra there is more than enough space in length. And the seats provide good support for the occupant's body. The Accent's seating position is the same as the Spectra's, but there's a little less room. However, when driving an Accent for a long time, you don’t get as tired as in a Logan, which is clearly not intended for long journeys. It’s a pity, because the Russified “French” has the largest trunk: 510 liters. This is an incredible volume for such a small car. The KIA Spectra has the smallest trunk. Although, you must admit, 440 liters is also a lot, and this car is perfectly suited for long journeys thanks to its soft suspension. Accent and Logan also have not stiff suspensions, but Spectra still has the smoothest ride. I wonder how the cars behave while driving? Despite the smaller engine capacity, the Hyundai Accent turned out to be the fastest of the three. Its 1.5-liter engine exhibits excellent elasticity and good traction throughout the entire operating speed range. The engines of the other two test participants are 1.6-liter, but they do not give their owners much agility. True, their habits are different. Thus, the eight-valve Logan engine is not very strong at low speeds and is quite sluggish up to 3500 rpm, so you have to actively work the gearshift lever to stay in the flow. In addition, the clutch pedal travel is too long, and the gearbox lever locking is unclear. In a word, this car requires special getting used to. Well, the dynamic capabilities of the KIA Spectra are fully consistent with the comfortable driving that this car offers. The engine demonstrates good traction even from the bottom, and driving in the city does not annoy the driver with the need for unnecessary manipulations. However, by 4000 rpm the engine slows down and also becomes noisy. There is no point in turning it above this mark, except perhaps for overtaking on the highway, when you still need to reach high speeds. But, as it happens, cars tuned for comfort lose control. And KIA Spectra is no exception. Reactions to turning the steering wheel are quite soft; when trying to quickly maneuver, the front axle drifts. To evaluate the handling properties, we, as usual, carried out a series of standard tests. On the “snake”, the Spectra rolls noticeably, and as the speed increases, it slides with the front axle, straightening its trajectory. However, in principle, you can adapt to this behavior of the car by steering slightly ahead. Otherwise, the Spectra's handling is clear and predictable. And what is very important, this car has a large margin of directional stability. This confirms the implementation of a sharp row change. Rearrangement is the most vital test, and the worst thing it threatens is skidding. The Spectra handles this exercise with flying colors, requiring only minor steering adjustments in the final phase. The other two participants in our test roll in turns as much as the Spectra, but respond more readily to steering inputs. The Hyundai Accent very obediently dives between the “snake” marking cones and slides a little with the rear axle, but the skid is not critical. When rearranging, you have to do more corrective actions with the steering wheel, but there is also a very unpleasant moment - the force on the steering wheel increases when returning. Considering the not very comfortable two-spoke shape of the steering wheel, when maneuvering quickly, you need to hold on to it as tightly as possible. Renault Logan demonstrated the most acute reactions. It passes the “snake” very dashingly, but you shouldn’t get carried away: Logan’s stock of directional stability is very small. So, after performing the rearrangement, it is quite difficult to “catch” the car. Logan is the most prone to skidding among all test participants. There are no exchange rate stabilization systems on any of the three cars, and in an extreme situation the driver should rely only on his own strength and skills. However, on a front-wheel drive car, adding gas solves the problem of skidding, although, as a rule, in an extreme situation, the driver’s natural reaction is to want to let off the gas. Now you understand why the Spectra's behavior is most preferable in our case, which makes this car the winner in our test. Be that as it may, all three test cars represent the trend towards the formation of, let's say, alternative automotive industry. While they do not compete with domestic brands due to their higher prices, they serve as an excellent option for those who have already outgrown the old Russian automobile industry. #
Two sedans developed in Korea and produced in Russian production - the Kia Spectra and Hyundai Accent - are still on the road in large numbers. C-class cars, suitable for families and for singles, trips around the city or to the country, are not ideal, but attractive with a low price and the presence of all the options necessary for today.
The first release of KIA sedans was developed on the basis of Mazda, which immediately gave them a reputation as a “workhorse”, quite comfortable and not too capricious. The KIA Spectra model was released in the 2000s, and from 2004 to 2010 it was assembled at IzhAvto. Two body styles were offered - sedan and liftback.
The most popular in the Russian Federation is the sedan, which has:
- The interior is spacious for this class of car.
- Volume trunk, increased by folding the rear seats.
- High-quality sound insulation.
- Powerful engine.
- Stylish, sporty design for this price category.
KIA Spectra is a reliable front-wheel drive car with independent spring suspension, its maximum speed 186 km/h, fuel consumption on the highway - 6.2 l. The body is elongated, with smoothed lines, its dimensions are: 4510x1720x1415 mm. The KIA Spectra engine has the power 101 hp. and has volume 1.6 l. The sedan is positioned as a family sedan, so the interior space for passengers in the second row of seats has been increased and the trunk volume has been increased up to 440 l.
One of the advantages is the presence of a stabilizer bar. The model was adapted for Russia; since 2005, the car received power steering and the ability to tilt the steering column, power windows, 6 airbags, air conditioning, and fog lights. The top version has heated seats and ABS. Little things include electric heated mirrors and pre-installed wheel caps.
Almost the same age as the Spectra is the Hyundai Accent. Developed and produced since 1994 in South Korea, later its assembly was located in the Russian Federation at the Taganrog Automobile Plant. The design of the Hyundai Accent has pronounced sporty features: smoothed contours, a windshield with a high level of inclination, and a predatory sloping hood.
The Hyundai Accent was produced in two body styles: a three- and five-door hatchback and a traditional sedan. Dimensions 4370×1700x1450(hatchback) and 4045x1695x1470 mm(sedan). The dashboard, which smoothly flows onto the doors, makes the interior particularly attractive. Thanks to this solution, the interior space in front is increased. The model had excellent sound insulation, a fuel consumption reduction system and was produced in three versions:
- Basic equipment L.
- Improved LS with protection against accidental door opening and air conditioning.
- top-end GLS with ABS, armrest for the driver's seat, heated rear window, air conditioning, electrically adjustable windows and mirrors, central locking.
The engine in the Hyundai Accent was installed in two versions, 1.3 l and 1.5 l, power was 70 hp. And 91 hp. respectively. The suspension is independent and rigid, improved thanks to anti-roll bars. After updating the model, the version with a 1.3 liter engine became more powerful - 84 hp, and 1.5 liters slowed down the “horses” a little up to 8.2 l. Minimum fuel consumption is about 5 liters per 100 km, maximum speed is 173 km/h. Trunk volume 375 l, but increases thanks to folding seats in the top version.
What are the similarities between KIA Spectra and Hyundai Accent
Both cars were developed in South Korea, but were assembled in Russia for a long time, and both models were very popular due to their dimensions, driving characteristics and orientation as a family car. The KIA Spectra, as well as the Hyundai Accent, had two transmission options:
- Mechanical 5-speed.
- Automatic 4-speed.
Buyers could choose a package with both automatic and manual transmission to their taste. Their dimensions are approximately the same, but the Accent sedan is slightly smaller than the hatchback. On the road they behave similarly, preferring highways and asphalt surfaces, but they can also overcome dirt roads. A speed of 175-185 km/h is quite sufficient to satisfy both the everyday ambitions of a single traveler and a family.
What is the difference between KIA Spectra and Hyundai Accent
The differences between the Koreans are not too great, but the KIA Spectra wins several points due to better equipment. For many, especially inexperienced drivers, the presence of power steering is of great importance, which the Hyundai Accent does not have in the original version; it is included specifically for buyers in the Russian Federation. The KIA engine is more powerful - 101 hp. versus 86-84 hp at Hyundai.
The Accent is slightly smaller in size, making it easier to fit into small parking spaces. It is lighter and more economical in gasoline consumption - only 5 liters versus 6 liters for the Spectra, and in a traffic jam the Spectra's fuel consumption reaches 8.6 liters.
Korean cars on the Russian market initially had the main problem of low ground clearance, but the KIA Spectra has quite high ground clearance - 154 mm, which allows you to drive not only on the highway, but also on a country road. Hyundai has even more ground clearance - 165 mm.
Features of choice
KIA Spectra is more suitable for those who prefer a less aggressive driving style or travel in a large group. Practical yet conservative, it makes an excellent mid-priced family car. The car continues to be very popular, both due to its performance characteristics and the fact that its prices are very affordable. KIA Spectra is often chosen after obtaining a license by those who decide to purchase their first car. It is easy to operate, economical, and the cost of repairs and spare parts is insignificant.
Its close brother, the Hyundai Accent, is similarly adapted to operating conditions in the Russian Federation, for which power steering, air conditioning, an immobilizer and a car radio are added to the basic package. A big plus is the anti-corrosion treatment of the bottom and galvanization of the body, which protects the car from damage by gravel and rust. It is good for a young couple without children or those who do not like to carry a lot of luggage with them. It won’t let down summer residents either, since the tailgate is designed in such a way that every cubic centimeter of space can be used.
When choosing a budget car, many people ask: which is better - Kia Spectra or Hyundai Accent? Their price is quite comparable, the technical characteristics are approximately the same, and the external design is in the same vein. And if there are no personal complaints (or, on the contrary, gratitude) to one of the manufacturers, then the choice is really very difficult.
It would seem - take the one that is sold closer to home or you like the color. But most of us buy a car with a long view. Few people are going to change it for a new one in 3-4 years, unless extreme performance forces them. So, if you take a model at random, you risk that for a decade, or even longer, you will secretly reproach yourself for the unsuccessful purchase.
Consumables, efficiency, convenience - everything should be evaluated, meticulously and harshly. In the case of the Kia Spectra and Hyundai Accent, there is no need to focus on what compatriots buy more. Both models are equally often found on our streets. And statistics confirm: their sales volumes are equal.
Which is better, Kia Spectra or Hyundai Accent, is debated by both owners and those who have just set their sights on purchasing, but have already acquired their own point of view. Let's try to compare the models impartially.
Visual impressions
In terms of appearance, both models are very similar: smooth outlines, soft-shaped headlights, and a narrow radiator grille. However, there are certain differences:
- The Spectra has a more pronounced, slightly raised trunk, while the Accent is a little less in this regard;
- The Accent is more compact than its competitor. Spectra is larger in size (almost 25 cm longer and 6.5 cm wider), and the wheels have a larger diameter;
- With almost equal ground clearance, the Spectra will nod off more not only due to the lag in ground clearance by a centimeter, but also due to the extended overhang at the front. Owners of the Hyundai Accent claim that they can easily overcome curbs that are not very high; in most cases this is not possible for the Kia Spectra.
Inside the cabin
If we evaluate the models from the inside, the difference turns out to be more noticeable.
- In terms of visibility, the Spectra confidently outperforms its rival, whose mirrors are smaller and narrower. In dense city traffic this is an important remark;
- The design of the dashboard looks more elegant than the model from the Hyundai concern. The opponent's scales are too small, and additional indicators in miles only confuse;
- But in terms of convenience, Spectra takes the lead again. The successful back profile is also adjustable, the seat is moderately soft and does not sag under weight. Again, there is plenty of leg room. It’s downright cramped in the Accent: the knees of both the front and rear riders rest. And the width of the rear sofa is a bit cramped for three - the slightly smaller dimensions have an impact;
- Oddly enough, given its size, the Accent surpasses its competitor in trunk volume by as much as 30 liters. For family travel, this can be important.
Technical features
Let's start with the fact that the rivals in question have different engines: the Accent has a volume of 1.5 liters and produces 102 horses, while the Spectra has a 1.6 liter unit on board with a power of 105 hp. However, you should not immediately come to seemingly obvious conclusions.
The Accent's acceleration takes just 10.5 seconds compared to almost 13 Spectra. This is understandable - the latter’s weight is still 165 kg. more.
Maneuverability much better again with the Hyundai model. It is also more responsive to the supply of traction. The enemy she encountered was more clumsy and slow.
However, despite the less powerful engine, the Accent has a hefty appetite: outside the city, don’t expect less than 6 liters per hundred (versus 5.5 for the Spectra), and in traffic light mode the consumption increases to 12, although the manufacturer promises 10. Spectra in this regard, it is more moderate, and in traffic jams it spends a little more than 9.
As for the suspension, its class is approximately the same for both models, although the Spectra is softer and hides road irregularities better. The Accent has a very quiet suspension, but it transmits even minor bumps inward.
So what should you choose? If we focus on the rhythm of life of a person who chooses which is better than a Kia Spectra or a Hyundai Accent, then the latter will still be more suitable for those who mainly move along the streets of big cities. Despite the greed for fuel, it significantly improves in agility, and it will be more convenient and faster to get through traffic jams and alleys. If you often travel with your family - at least to a country house - choose the Kia Spectra: it is more comfortable on a long drive and more economical.
