Nobody really expected it to be such a revelation. Get past the stupid name and here was a car with crisp styling, sharp handling and high quality. Throw in the 5star Euro NCAP rating, a seven-year warranty and highly competitive pricing, and it is difficult to see how Kia could improve it much further. However, with the new station wagon, Kia has managed to do just that. It is 235mm longer than the hatch and 10mm higher with roof bars. The Cee’d estate wades into battle with one trim level, the EX, and a choice of two engines: a 1.4litre 109hp petrol or a 1.6-litre 113hp common-rail diesel. The Cee’d is an attractive-looking estate and the interior is not only high quality but crucially it also has wonderfully tactile materials and firm, supportive seats. The controls are well laid out and the driving position is spot on, just like in the hatch. The extra space is confined to the boot area, which is fine as the rear seat is quite accommodating with good levels of head and leg room. The 534-litre boot includes handy under-floor storage, and folding the rear seats flat liberates an impressive 1,664 litres of room. The way it is designed is clever too; the tailgate hinges have been positioned further forward to reduce the degree that the tailgate swings up and out when opened, making it easier to use in tight spaces. Also, the lip of the boot itself is exceptionally low, so it is much easier to lift heavy loads into the back. Aside from that, it is typical of the hatchback, being both good to drive and easy to live with. The added practicality makes this an even better proposition.
INFO
Kia Cee’d EX Station Wagon
Engine: 1.4-litre 4-cylinder, 109hp, 137Nm
Transmission: 5-speed manual
Acceleration 0–100 km/h: 11.7 seconds
Top speed: 187km/h
Economy: 6.3L/100 km
CO2: 149g/km
Boot capacity: 534 litres
Weight: 1,317kg
Base price: €21,995
Price as tested: €21,995
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