At specialized automotive 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 that 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 Hyundai Accent and KIA Spectra?

Hyundai Accent and KIA Spectra - comparison of Korean state employees

a cursory glance

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 Accent. Otherwise, they are very similar - the same smooth lines, fashionable in automotive design of the 90s, narrow 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 we will try to find out - the differences between these Korean cars, in my opinion, are not very clear.

Let's compare the cars of 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, the comparison will start 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. Such gray mice.

The exterior design is typically Korean, in our truest sense. Companies did not bother to invest in the development of the appearance of models. So they sold like hot cakes: Accent - in Russia, Spectra - in the USA.

Due to the fact that none of the cars did not like, the score remains 0-0.

Dimensions

The body of the Kia Spectra has a length of 4.51 m, a width of 1.725 m, a height of 1.415 m. The length of the wheelbase is 2.56 m.

Hyundai Accent is shorter, narrower and lower. I would say that he is clearly below class. Its length is 4.235 m (-28 cm compared 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 exactly the case when cars of different classes cost the same - that's why they are compared with each other.

By the way, he hinted about the trunks, but did not voice the figures for their volumes. The trunk of a sedan from Hyundai has a volume of only 375 liters, the trunk of a sedan from Kia - 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 body metal of the Kia Spectra is probably of good thickness. This becomes clear at the moment when you press on the door trim: it does not slip. The paintwork after so many years is still in very good condition on most cars. It feels like they did it right. Finding rust is very difficult - the body is galvanized.

With regard to the Hyundai Accent - how lucky. Many cars with bodies in good condition, a lot of rusty and rotten. Perhaps someone cares how, 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 the car, the paint peels off the bumpers.

In terms of workmanship, Spectra wins again. Score 2-0.

Interior

Design

Like the exterior, the interiors of the models do not shine with the elegance of lines. In the Spectrum, the “stick” of the center console is annoying:

In Accent - cheap rusticity:

However, according to the reviews of the owners, the interior design of the Accent is no worse than that of the same VAZs, and in terms of quality it clearly wins. Based on the fact that the cost of the car lies in the same price range as the cost of VAZ products of the same model years (+/- a couple of years), a Hyundai sedan seems to me to be preferable. But I digress...

Let's get back to the comparison. If we talk about interior design, then I do not 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 design of the Kia Spectra console annoys me. In addition, I like the simple but perfectly readable dashboard of the first one more than the “tidy” of the second. The accent gets the first point. Score 2-1.

Material quality

The quality of the materials used to trim the Kia Spectra is definitely higher. Although the plastic of the console and door trim is nondescript, it is soft. Albeit average quality. But it's definitely better than the "wooden" plastic Hyundai Accent.

In principle, it was immediately clear that the latter belongs to a lower "estate". Therefore, one should not expect any revelations from him. But the quality factor 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 filler seems to be better in the Accent - in the Spectra, the sidewalls of the front seats are often pressed through, this is definitely a "jamb" of the developers.

Noise isolation is definitely better in Spectra - to match the class. Not to say that it is good, but there is a little. But with regard to the “shumka” Accent, it seems that the designers did not bother about it. Like, you have to - do it yourself. And so the car is nowhere cheaper.

In general, if you do not take into account the problem with the sidewalls of the front seats, then the overall impression of the interior materials and sound insulation is better in the Kia sedan. He gets the point. Score 3-1.

Ergonomics

The interior is definitely more spacious in the Kia Spectra - remember how much its body is larger than the body of the Hyundai Accent. The Spectra has both a wider and longer interior. Both front and rear feel more space.

The landing is comfortable, in principle, both there and there. In the sense - for the front riders. However, the Accent front seats have more developed lateral support, judging by the reviews, it is more pleasant to sit than in Russian cars.

Behind, as expected, there is more space in the Kia - both for the legs and above the head.

In Hyundai, this is a problem - in fact, only small people or children will be comfortable there.

Driving performance

Both models have a fairly comfortable suspension. The reason is the "MacPherson" in front and the "multi-link" in the back. "Multi-link". At Accent. For a higher-class sedan like the Spectra, this is logical, but for a car like the Accent, I think it's cool. In this perspective, both cars deserve attention, but the score does not change.

The engines that are most often found on the market are:

• the Spectra 1.6 has 101 hp. at 5500 rpm and a torque of 145 Nm at 4500 rpm
• the Accent 1.5 has 102 hp. at 5800 rpm and 134 torque at 3000 rpm.

Judging by the reviews, an automatic transmission when buying Spectra cannot be considered as an option in any case - in most cars it is already worn out and will require replacement in the very near future. In principle, the "automatic" of these machines from the very beginning showed itself from the worst side, because. required "surgical intervention" often after 30 thousand kilometers. It's just a fiasco.

The Accent does not notice such a problem, but its engine is definitely not the power unit for which it is more expedient to choose an automatic transmission than a “mechanics”. He's weak, to be honest. Acceleration to 100 km / h from a standstill with 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 the reviews of the latter, some people like Accent dynamics, some do not. For reference: Spectra on the "mechanics" according to official data accelerates from zero to 100 km / h in 11.6 seconds, and Accent with manual transmission - in 10.5 seconds. Even VAZs are capable of more ... The last one gets the best dynamics. The score becomes 3-2.

By expense. Passport data says that Kia Spectra “eats” 7.1 liters in mixed mode. But the owners talk about 9-10 liters, even in a leisurely mode. With regard to the Hyundai Accent, official figures are closer to the truth: the declared 7.5 liters. in the combined cycle are confirmed by the owners of this model. For this Accent gets one more point. The score was equal, 3-3.

conclusions

Let's summarize. If there is a question of choosing between the Kia Spectra and the Hyundai Accent, then I see only one point here that you need to decide on in order to understand what to take. Moreover, the cars scored an equal number of points. In general, if you need a larger interior, a larger trunk, then it is better to buy a Spectra. If you need a car, as they say, “for the driver” - faster, less consumption, more comfortable landing - then the choice should definitely be made in favor of the Accent.

Video reviews and test drives

When choosing a budget class car, many people ask: which is better - Kia Spectra or Hyundai Accent? Their price is quite comparable, the technical characteristics are approximately the same, the external design is in the same vein. And if there are no personal claims (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 liked the color. But most of us buy a car with a long view. Few people are going to change it to a new one in 3-4 years, unless extreme indicators are forced. So, taking a model at random, you risk that for a decade, or even longer, you will implicitly reproach yourself for an unsuccessful purchase.

Consumables, efficiency, convenience - everything should be evaluated, and meticulously and harshly. It is not necessary to focus on what compatriots buy more, in the case of Kia Spectra and Hyundai Accent. Both models are equally common on our streets. Yes, and statistics confirm: their sales volumes are equal.

What is better, Kia Spectra or Hyundai Accent, is argued by both owners and those who have just set their sights on buying, but have already acquired their point of view. Let's try to compare models impartially.

visual impressions

Outwardly, 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, somewhat raised trunk, while the Accent has a little in this regard;
• Accent is more compact than its competitor. Spectra is larger (almost 25 cm longer and 6.5 wider), and the wheels have a larger diameter;
• With almost equal ground clearance, the Spectra will nod more, not only due to a centimeter lag in ground clearance, but also due to the extended front overhang. Hyundai Accent owners assure that they can easily overcome not very high curbs, Kia Spectra is in most cases not available.

Inside the cabin

If we evaluate the models from the inside, then the difference is more noticeable.

• In terms of visibility, the Spectra confidently overtakes an opponent whose mirrors are smaller and narrower. In dense city traffic, this is an essential remark;
• In the design of the dashboard, the model of the authorship of the Hyundai concern looks more elegant. The opponent has small scales, and additional indicators in miles only confuse;
• But for convenience, the Spectra breaks ahead again. The successful back profile is also adjustable, the seat is moderately soft and does not sag under weight. Again, the legs are quite spacious. The Accent is frankly cramped: the knees rest on both the front riders and the rear ones. Yes, and the width of the rear sofa for three is cramped - slightly smaller dimensions affect;
• Oddly enough, for its size, the Accent outperforms its competitor by as much as 30 liters in terms of trunk volume. For family travel, this can be important.

Let's move on to the possibilities of models in motion.

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, on board the Spectra has a 1.6-liter unit with a power of 105 hp. However, one should not immediately come to seemingly obvious conclusions.

Accent's acceleration takes only 10.5 seconds compared to almost 13 Spectra. It is understandable - the mass of the latter is still 165 kg. more.

Maneuverability much better again with the Hyundai model. She is more responsive to the supply of traction. The enemy she came across is more clumsy and slow.

However, despite the less powerful engine, Accent has a fair appetite: out of town, don’t count on less than 6 liters per hundred (against 5.5 for Spectra), and in traffic light mode, consumption increases to 12, although the manufacturer promises 10. Spectra in this respect, more moderate, and spends a little more than 9 in traffic jams.

As for the suspension, its class is about the same for both models, although the Spectra is softer and better conceals road bumps. Accent has a very quiet running suspension, but it transmits even minor bumps in height.

So what to choose? If you focus on the rhythm of life of a person who chooses what is better than Kia Spectra or Hyundai Accent, then for those who mainly move along the streets of megacities, the latter is still more suitable. Despite the greed for fuel, it significantly wins in terms of briskness, and it will be more convenient and faster to make your way through traffic jams and lanes. If you often travel with your family - at least to a country cottage - stop at the Kia Spectra: it is more comfortable on a long drive and more economical.

1.6 $13 989.

The domestic automotive industry is reviving today thanks to the production of foreign cars at Russian factories. Apparently, this way is very effective. The very fact that we can do comparative tests of such cars speaks volumes. So, we decided to put three representatives of the new Russian car 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, range from $9,000 to $14,000. So, as you can see, they can hardly be called an alternative to the “masterpieces” of domestic auto giants. Nevertheless, these are one of the cheapest foreign cars, albeit assembled in our country. Let's try to figure out what the buyer gets by purchasing one of these machines.

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 automotive industry of the end of that century, so you can’t call their appearance ultra-modern, although they look quite harmonious. As for the Renault Logan, the angular shape of its body, the disproportionately high rear end indicate that the creators were faced with the task of making the car as simple, practical and cheap as possible. This is not surprising, because initially Logan was created with the expectation of being sold in third countries. And what interior equipment will the machines 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. A set of options for everyday driving, you see, is quite sufficient. Glasses, however, will have to be opened manually. But the steering column is adjustable in height, which is not, for example, in Renault Logan, even with the maximum level of equipment. The test copy of Logan ($13,989) is the most "fancy" of the entire line of modifications of this model, as they say. The set of options here is quite ordinary: air conditioning, an audio system with a CD player, electric drive and heated side mirrors, power windows. By the way, you will not find the control buttons for the latter right away. And if the front ones, located along the edges of the center console, are easy to find, then the rear ones will have to be looked for: they are hidden between the front seats, behind the handbrake. Due to the rather high seating position, it will be inconvenient for both rear passengers and those sitting in front to reach these keys. And in general, convenience in Logan, apparently, was taken care of last. The most comfortable of the three with almost the same set of options was Spectra ($13,320). A slight advantage in external dimensions and wheelbase makes itself felt. Unlike Logan, there is no need for a high seating position here, and a tall driver does not have to lonely draw his legs: in the Spectra, there is more than enough space in length. And the seats support the body of the seated person well. Landing in Accent is the same as in Spectra, just a little less space. However, being behind the wheel of Accent for a long time, you do not get tired like in Logan, which is clearly not designed for long journeys. It's a pity, because the Russified "Frenchman" 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 see, 440 liters is also a lot, and even for long journeys, this car fits perfectly thanks to the soft suspension. The Accent and Logan don't have stiff suspension either, but the Spectra still has the smoothest ride. I wonder how the cars behave on the go? Despite the smaller engine size, Hyundai Accent turned out to be the most nimble of the whole trio. 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, they have different habits. So, the Logan eight-valve motor does not pull too hard at low revs and is rather sluggish up to 3500 rpm, so you have to actively work with the gearshift lever to stay in the stream. In addition, here the clutch pedal travel is too large, and the gearshift lever lock is fuzzy. In short, this car requires a lot of getting used to. Well, the dynamic capabilities of the KIA Spectra are fully consistent with the comfortable driving that this car has to offer. The engine demonstrates good traction already from the bottom, and driving in the city does not annoy the driver with the need for unnecessary manipulations. However, by 4000 rpm, the motor slows down the rate of acceleration and also becomes noisy. It does not make sense to turn it above this mark, with the exception of overtaking on the highway, when you still need to dial high speeds. But, as it happens, cars tuned for comfort lose control. And KIA Spectra is no exception. Reactions to the steering wheel are quite soft, when you try to quickly maneuver, the front axle drifts. To evaluate the controllability properties, we, as usual, conducted a series of standard tests. On the "snake" Spectra heels noticeably, and with an increase in the speed of passage, it slides with the front axle, straightening the trajectory. However, in principle, one can adapt to such behavior of the car by operating the steering wheel with a slight lead. The rest of the Spectra's handling is clear and predictable. And what is very important, this car has a large margin of road holding. This confirms the implementation of a sharp change in rows. Rearrangement is the most vital test, and the worst thing it threatens is skidding. The Spectra handles this exercise with flying colours, with only a slight steering adjustment required in the final phase. The other two participants in our test roll in the turn as much as the Spectra, but more readily respond to steering turns. Hyundai Accent very obediently dives between the marking cones of the “snake” and slides a little with the rear axle, but skidding 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 you return. Given the not very convenient 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 sharpest reactions. He very famously passes the “snake”, but you should not get carried away: the stock of directional stability of the Logan is very small. So after the rearrangement, it is quite difficult to “catch” the car. Logan is more prone to skidding than 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 with the resulting skid, although, as a rule, in an extreme situation, the natural reaction of the driver is to want to release the gas. Now you understand why the behavior of the Spectra 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 a trend in the formation of, shall we say, an alternative automotive industry. So far, they do not compete with domestic brands due to their higher price, but they serve as an excellent option for those who have already outgrown the old Russian auto industry. #

Two sedans designed in Korea and produced in Russia, the Kia Spectra and the Hyundai Accent, still drive on the roads in large numbers. C-class cars, suitable for families and 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 production of KIA sedans was developed on the basis of Mazda, which immediately provided them with 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:

• Spacious interior for this class of cars.
• Volumetric trunk, increased by folding the rear seats.
• Quality soundproofing.
• Powerful engine.
• Stylish for this price range sporty design.

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: 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 cabin space for passengers in the second row of seats has been increased, and the trunk volume has been increased. up to 440 l.

Of the pluses can be called the presence of a stabilizer bar. The model was adapted for Russia, since 2005 the car received a power steering and the ability to adjust the steering column for tilt, power windows, 6 airbags, air conditioning, fog lights. The top equipment has heated seats and ABS. Of the little things - electric heating of mirrors and pre-installed caps on wheel disks.

Almost the same age as the Spectra is the Hyundai Accent. Developed and produced since 1994 in South Korea, later its assembly was placed in the Russian Federation at the Taganrog Automobile Plant. The design of the Hyundai Accent has pronounced sporting features: smooth outlines, a windshield with a high level of inclination, and a predatory sloping hood.

Hyundai Accent was produced with two body styles: a three- and five-door hatchback and a traditional sedan. Dimensions 4370x1700x1450(hatchback) and 4045x1695x1470 mm(sedan). The instrument panel, smoothly passing to the doors, gives the cabin a special appeal. Thanks to this solution, the interior space in front is increased. The model had excellent sound insulation, a system for reducing fuel consumption and was produced in three versions:

• Basic equipment L.
• Improved LS with protection against accidental opening of doors and air conditioning.
• top GLS with ABS, armrest for the driver's seat, heated rear window, air conditioning, power windows and mirrors, central locking.

The engine on the Hyundai Accent was installed in two versions, 1.3 l and 1.5 l, the power was 70 HP. and 91 HP. respectively. Suspension - independent 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. The minimum fuel consumption is about 5 liters per 100 km, the maximum speed is 173 km / h. Trunk volume 375 l, but increases thanks to the 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. On the KIA Spectra, as well as on the Hyundai Accent, two gearbox options were installed:

• Mechanical 5-speed.
• Automatic 4-speed.

Buyers could choose to their taste a complete set with both automatic transmission and mechanics. Their dimensions are about the same, but the Accent sedan is slightly smaller than the hatchback. On the road, they behave similarly, preferring the highway and asphalt, but they can also overcome the primer. The speed in the range of 175-185 km / h is quite sufficient to satisfy both the daily ambitions of a lone 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 a few points due to better equipment. For many, especially inexperienced drivers, the presence of a 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 motor is more powerful - 101 hp. against 86-84 hp at Hyundai.

Accent is slightly smaller in size, it is easier to fit it into a small parking space. It consumes gasoline lighter and more economically - only 5 liters versus 6 liters for the Spectra, and in a traffic jam the fuel consumption of the Spectra reaches 8.6 liters.

Korean cars in the Russian market initially had the problem of low ground clearance, but the KIA Spectra has a sufficiently high ground clearance - 154 mm, which allows you to move not only along the highway, but also along 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 move in a large company. Practical and at the same time conservative, it is an excellent family car in the middle price category. The car continues to enjoy great popularity, both in connection with its performance characteristics and the fact that its prices are very affordable. KIA Spectra is often chosen after obtaining the rights of those who decide to purchase their first car. It is easy to operate, economical, the cost of repairs and spare parts is negligible.

Its close colleague Hyundai Accent is similarly adapted to the operating conditions in the Russian Federation, for which a 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 galvanized body, which protect the car from gravel damage 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 will not let summer residents down either, since the tailgate is designed in such a way that every cubic centimeter of area can be used.