There is nothing quite like a good bargain. The 23-inch flat-panel TV/monitor I’m writing on now cost me a mere €400 a few weeks ago, yet a year ago these same screens were retailing for almost a grand. That gives me an unnatural sense of smugness and satisfaction, knowing that people have paid more than twice what I did and have the same basic product.
In fact, most of my stuff was bought that way –my laptop and camera came with me from the States and I even got my sat nav system cheap as well because they miss-marked the price. I’m not a cheapskate, you understand, it’s just that I love getting good stuff cheap.
Perhaps that’s why I have an unnatural love for the Kia Cee’d, especially now it’s offered with a diesel engine. As good a bargain as the petrol models are, the diesel is insanely good value. For €24,000 you get a perky, refined and extremely frugal 1.6-litre diesel engine mated to a snappy gearbox and light clutch. The handling is surprisingly engaging too, and while its 0-100km/h time isn’t stellar, its on-road performance is very competitive, hardly surprising with 255Nm available from 1,900rpm. Because the diesel Cee’d is only available in top EX spec you get the tasteful 16-inch alloys, air conditioning, half leather seats, remote stereo controls, a USB interface, a trip computer, leather steering wheel, four electric windows, remote locking and fog lights.
The only option is metallic paint and even that’s cheap at €350. A slap on the wrist for Kia for not making ESP available, and cruise control would also be a welcome option especially as the diesel has such a phenomenal range, but other than that we’re still in disbelief at what a cracking package the Cee’d diesel is.
INFO
Engine 1.6-litre turbo diesel, 115hp, 255Nm torque
Transmission 5-speed automatic
Acceleration 0-100km/h 11.5 seconds
Top speed 188 km/h
Economy 4.7 litres/100 km CO2
Emissions 125 g/km
Boot Capacity 340 litres
Weight 1,468 kg
Base Price €23,495
Price as Tested €23,845
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