For The Cee'd is a good-value range, and this is the cheapest model in it. Plus, the smooth engine feels stronger than its output suggests.
Against Buyers who wnat to keep their running costs down may be tempted by one of the more frugal diesel models. And, you need to stretch to the next trim up to get alloys.
Being the cheapest model in the range is just the start of this model's appeal. It's also got a fine engine and decent kit, so there's little wonder it's our favourite version.
The Cee'd made Kia a serious contender in the highly competitive hatchback sector at a stroke. Buy one and you're unlikely to be disappointed – it has plenty of appeal as sensible, practical and well-priced family transport, even if it ultimately falls short of the class leaders.
We'd avoid the 1.6-litre petrol engine, because it's sluggish and noisy. You're much better off with the 1.4-litre petrol or one of the 1.6 diesels.
The lower-powered diesel can be ordered with Kia's Idle Stop & Start (ISG) system, which cuts CO2 emissions and fuel consumption by automatically turning off and restarting the engine in traffic. However, the higher-powered diesel is a better all-rounder: it's only slightly more expensive to run, and offers superior performance and refinement.
Whichever engine you choose, long-term reliability is unlikely to be an issue. Every Cee'd comes with a hugely reassuring seven-year warranty.
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