• Summary

    4 out of 5 4.0

    What does this car say about you?

    Old enough not to give a damn. Wise enough to know a bargain when I see one.

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

    No idea, haven't asked them.

    Would you buy this car again and why?

    No, but only because I like variety. Woul consider a Cee'd though.

    What are you likely to buy next?

    No idea - as above, would consider another Kia.

  • Buying experience

    3 out of 5 3.0

    Type of dealer you bought from?

    Franchise

    Did you buy this car new?

    Yes

    What price did you pay?

    £8,200

    When did you buy the car?

    April 2008

    Did you get a good deal and why?

    Dealer wasn't up for negotiation but I still consider the car a bargain.

    Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

    What was the dealer like?

    Spartan surroundings, sales people seemed a bit depressed. They went bust a few weeks later. New franchisee is much better!

  • Driving it

    4 out of 5 4.0

    What's it like to drive?

    Exceptional engine, regularly surprises drivers of other supposedly 'better' cars. Quiet on the motorway. Usually get low 50s mpg but have achieved 61mpg on a motorway run by sticking to 70mph max and smooth driving. Handling is safe but the ride's not great, quite crashy over bumps - feels underdamped.

    What's it like to park?

    Easy peasy.

  • Living with it

    5 out of 5 5.0

    Have you had any problems with the car?

    Gear linkage split in the first week but has been OK since then. Footwell carpet soaked a few weeks later because dealer had forgotten to reconnect the drain hose. Sorted it myself; as above, that dealer has rightfully gone bust.

    What's most practical about your car?

    Reliability, space, simplicity.

    Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

    Aircon.