Car reviews

Kia has proved recently that it can build cars that compete on equal terms with mainstream European and Japanese cars. The Sorento, 2005 Sportage and 2005 Rio are good all-round products which sell on merit, not just their budget prices. The new Magentis is a far more competent car than the model it replaces and comes with a diesel engine for the first time - a must if it's to compete with the likes of the Ford Mondeo and Vauxhall Vectra. However, it also competes with mainstream rivals on price, and while it drives well, the interior with its hard plastics and shiny surfaces makes it a less pleasant place to be.