Kia Carens (2006 - 2011) 2.0 CRDI LS 5d Auto (7 Seat) (2010/59) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

I have no idea and I don't care!

What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

The few who have commented seem to like it and can see that it does precisely what it was bought for.

Would you buy this car again and why?

Yes. It was the best available that had the features we needed, and we intend to keep it for several more years. Price point was important to us, but we had test drives of more expensive models and would have still bought this one as the others didn't come up to scratch on one or more aspects. It is also quite efficient in terms of fuel (for its class and being an automatic) and was one of the best in its class at the time for fuel economy, although if buying a brand new model now I'd expect a bit better mpg.

What are you likely to buy next?

A small (but not ultra-small) city car, as an addition not replacement for this one.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Franchised

Did you buy this car new?

Yes

What price did you pay?

£15,395

When did you buy the car?

January 2010

Did you get a good deal and why?

We got some money off due to the scrappage scheme, and also haggled for a bit more of a discount and some freebies, so not too bad.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

As the main driver I needed an automatic with a dashboard-lever handbrake. As a family we also needed plenty of seating and/or luggage room in a compact model, at a good price with a good warranty, in a vehicle suitable for relative with a disability to get in and out of.

What was the dealer like?

Helpful and informative, although their admin and aftercare has been a bit below par. The vehicle delivery was delayed and they weren't too bad about keeping us informed but could have been better. The other dealership which we used for the test drive, and later the servicing, has been excellent though.

What's it like to drive?

Excellent. I feel safe driving my children in all weathers, but the performance is also good on all roads including the motorway - it's got plenty of power when overtaking even uphill. The car handles well and I feel that I have good control of the vehicle, without having 'heavy' steering. The cruise control works well and is easy to use.

What's it like to park?

Being a larger car it's not always easy to find a space where you can open the doors properly but it is very compact for a 7-seater so it does fit in most parking spaces. With the parking sensors and reasonable manoeuvrability, I don't have any major problems.

Have you had any problems with the car?

Very minor niggles to do with performance have been corrected without a fuss. The interior plastic scratches quite easily which is annoying, and the interior fabric on the roof has snagged since it is so thin, but otherwise everything has been fine.

What's most practical about your car?

Everything. It's unfussy, easy to drive, easy to maintain and to keep clean.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

The way the back two rows of seats fold flat in different combinations is very well designed. I also like the cruise control and radio control buttons on the steering wheel which are much safer to use than if placed anywhere else.