KIA STONIC 1.0 T-GDI 2

Price £16,995 On sale Now What’s new? Kia’s assault on Nissan Juke’s crossover territory has made it onto UK roads IF THE KIA Stonic is to escape your inevitable reaction to it – along the lines of “do we really need another jacked-up supermini?” – it’ll be because it’s a particularly handsome and well-priced example of the breed.

On the inside, the car’s cabin is unapologetically plasticky but feels robust and well hewn. Occupant space is good up front, less competitive in the back, but boot space is good. The car rides only moderately high on its springs and doesn’t have the most conveniently high-set driver’s seat.

On UK roads, the car handles keenly until its unremarkable grip levels begin to be breached. Body control is good but the car’s ride is restless and a bit coarse.