Kia Ceed

The Kia Ceed is the first car from the company that's designed and built in Europe - for Europeans. Its predecessor, the Cerato, was only allowed two-and-a-half years to make a name for itself in the UK. However, the Ceed is better in every area, and matches (or even improves on) many of its European and Japanese rivals. It is spacious, and has a smart, modern-looking interior. Customers can choose from two petrol or three diesel engines and three grades of trim. Key to winning over new buyers is a cutting edge seven-year warranty, which is just as well because the Ceed's prices seem to be rather higher than buyers of previous Kia family cars may be used to.

S, GS, LS, CRDi S, CRDi GS, CRDi LS

Ceed S models come with air conditioning and cooled glove box, electric front windows, 60/40 split folding rear seats, height and reach adjustable steering wheel, integrated CD-player with AM/FM RDS radio and full MP3 compatibility, steering wheel-mounted audio controls, trip computer, external temperature gauge, two front cupholders, 12V power outlet in centre console, vanity mirrors for driver and passenger, driver and passenger seat lumbar adjustment, driver's seat height adjustment. GS models add 16-inch alloy wheels, extra audio speakers, USB/auxiliary inputs (plus iPod compatibility from summer 2007), remote central locking and a leather-trimmed steering wheel and handbrake. LS models come with automatic climate control, part-leather trim, illuminated vanity mirrors, electric rear windows, metallic trim finishes, two rear cupholders and an illuminated ignition barrel.

S