2009 Kia Spectra: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The most important change for the 2009 Kia Spectra is that active front head restraints become standard across the entire sedan and Spectra5 hatchback lineup. Otherwise, the engine, styling, and basic layout remain largely unchanged.
About the 2009 Kia Spectra
Second-generation U.S. Spectra, in its 2007-2009 facelift period and final model year before the Forte replaced the sedan for 2010.
Kia positions the 2009 Spectra as a value-focused compact car that gives small-car shoppers a roomy cabin, strong standard safety equipment, solid fuel economy, and straightforward everyday usability. The core pitch is practical rather than flashy: more space than many rivals, useful standard features, and a simple trim walk from basic LX to comfort-focused EX to sportier SX. The Spectra5 hatchback adds cargo flexibility for buyers who want the same formula in a more versatile body style.
The 2009 Spectra ranges from the simple LX sedan to the better-equipped EX and sportier SX models. The SX sedan adds a firmer suspension, fog lights, and sportier trim, while the five-door 5 SX combines those touches with a split-folding rear seat and more useful cargo space.
What changed, by category
2009 Kia Spectra specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl, 2.0 Liter | 4-Cyl, 2.0 Liter | 4-Cyl, 2.0 Liter | 4-Cyl, 2.0 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 4-Spd w/Overdrive | Automatic, 4-Spd w/Overdrive | Automatic, 4-Spd w/Overdrive | Automatic, 4-Spd w/Overdrive |
| Drivetrain | FWD | FWD | FWD | FWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 23 mpg | 23 mpg | 23 mpg | 23 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 30 mpg | 30 mpg | 30 mpg | 30 mpg |
| Horsepower | 138 hp | 138 hp | 138 hp | 138 hp |
| Torque | 136 lb-ft | 136 lb-ft | 136 lb-ft | 136 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 2000 lb | 2000 lb | 2000 lb | 2000 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 12.2 cu-ft | 12.2 cu-ft | 12.2 cu-ft | 18.3 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 35.4 in | 35.4 in | 35.4 in | 35.4 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| 4-Wheel Disc Brakes | ||||
| Anti-Lock Brakes | ||||
| Cruise Control | ||||
| Alloy Wheels | ||||
| Fog Lights | ||||
| Heated Mirrors | ||||
| Power Moonroof | ||||
| Power Mirrors | ||||
| Rear Spoiler | ||||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | ||||
| Power Locks | ||||
| Power Windows | ||||
| Remote Start | ||||
| Remote Keyless Entry | ||||
| Tilt Wheel | ||||
Frequently asked questions
What is the main change to the 2009 Kia Spectra?
The main change is standard active front head restraints across the full 2009 Spectra and Spectra5 lineup. The engine, transmissions, styling, and basic body structure otherwise carry over.
Did the 2009 Kia Spectra get a new engine?
No. Every 2009 Spectra retains a 138-horsepower 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, front-wheel drive, and either a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission.
Was the 2009 Kia Spectra redesigned?
No. The 2009 Spectra remains part of the second generation and keeps the styling introduced with the 2007 freshening. Its only meaningful lineup-wide product update is the addition of standard active front head restraints.
Does the 2009 Kia Spectra come as a hatchback?
Yes. The 2009 Spectra5 SX is a five-door hatchback with a 60/40 split-folding rear seat, sport-tuned suspension, fog lights, and more cargo flexibility than the sedan.
Is 2009 the final year for the Kia Spectra?
Yes. The 2009 model is the Spectra’s final U.S. model year before the all-new Kia Forte takes over the compact-sedan role for 2010.