Kia Venga Estate engines, drive and performance
There are three engines available in the Venga, with the option of two petrol engines and one diesel. The entry-level petrol is 1.4-litre choice with a power output of 89bhp and a five-speed manual gearbox. It’s not the quickest engine around – taking 12.4 seconds to get to 62mph but once you get up to speed on the motorway it feels relaxed enough. You do get some lag when changing up, and that can be frustrating when you want to overtake.
The second petrol option is a 1.6-litre choice with 124bhp. The quickest in the line-up, it will complete the 0-62mph sprint in 11.8 seconds but is only available with a four-speed automatic and in the ‘2’ trim. The single diesel available is a 1.4 CRDi. Badged EcoDynamics, it gets start/stop, which cuts the engine when the car is stationary and restarts when the driver presses the clutch.
It’s the best in the range for fuel economy returning an average of 62.8mpg while emissions are fairly decent at 117g/km, but it’s sluggish with a 0-62mph time of 14 seconds.
Considering the high roofline and short length, it handles incredibly well for a car of this shape and size. There is very little body roll when it comes to tight corners and roundabouts. It may not be the most exciting car to drive but the handling is engaging enough to fill the driver with confidence when approaching bends at higher speeds. The steering is vague and a little on the heavy side, and the gearchange is notchy.
However, the Venga’s got a good turning circle, which makes it excellent for quick, tight manoeuvres around town.