• Summary

    5 out of 5 5.0

    What does this car say about you?

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

    Everyone is very impressed with it. Interior quality is excellent, cabin is very comfortable. Looks quite distinctive, a good mix of sporty detailing but not too overt about it. Gets a few inquisitive looks from other drivers...

    Would you buy this car again and why?

    Definitely. This car has really changed my opinion of Kia, and can imagine it will do the same for anyone else who drives/buys one...

    What are you likely to buy next?

    Another one, in 7 years when the warranty runs out...

  • Buying experience

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Type of dealer you bought from?

    Franchise

    Did you buy this car new?

    Yes

    What price did you pay?

    £0

    When did you buy the car?

    June 2008

    Did you get a good deal and why?

    Phone around and you can get quite a healthy chunk knocked off the RRP...

    Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

    Good combination of sporty looks, price, standard equipment and quite surprising power...

    What was the dealer like?

    Very helpful and friendly, though the actual dealership (premises) left a bit to be desired... Although I don't suppose I'll see them more than once a year...

  • Driving it

    4 out of 5 4.0

    What's it like to drive?

    A pleasant surprise! Pokey at low revs, a very good motorway cruiser and smooth in town, sure it will improve with age as the engine wears in a little more. Very flexible means little gear changing required. Sports suspension can be a little harsh at times and tyre noise can be intrusive at higher speeds. Steering is neat and accurate, by no means a sporty car (a la Focus ST etc) but can be quite fun. Grin inducing second/third gear acceleration (turbo kicks in nicely at 1800rpm) means it's more than quick enough for everyday motoring.

    What's it like to park?

    A little awkward as rear visibility is restricted by the small back/side windows and relatively high rear window placement. The mirrors are well sized and useful with a good range of adjustment.

  • Living with it

    5 out of 5 5.0

    Have you had any problems with the car?

    No.

    What's most practical about your car?

    Good sized, practical boot, surprisingly spacious cabin with useful storage... Wide opening doors are helpful.

    Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

    MP3/USB connectivity as standard (combined with quite a nice standard stereo unit). Standard climate control and cruise control come a close second.