Kia has a top tiny turbo
NEW petrol-powered family cars with smooth, small turbos are coming out all the time and they are great for lower emissions and improved economy.
But one newcomer to this tiny turbo market has produced a real gem with decent performance, brilliant handling and a comfortable ride as well.
The Kia cee’d 1.0-litre turbo is available in two different power outputs – 98 and 118bhp.
I tried the higher powered GT Line and was I impressed.
This five-door family hatch is hugely accomplished in almost every way – a car good enough to take on Ford and VW at their own game.
On a favourite switchback route of mine it behaved like a pure thoroughbred, powering through the corners with great ease and in huge safety.
The grip and road holding are truly excellent and it clings on like an octopus even when pushed unmercifully. That means it will keep you safe in emergency situations where you make an error or come across something unexpected on the road.
This car is absolutely lovely to drive – very good in every way and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
The 1.0-litre three-cylinder engine is super smooth and very willing, spinning happily all the way to to the red line.
But there’s really no point in pushing it that high because there is just as much urge when gearchanges are made earlier.
It pulls well in all six gears too so that sixth is quite man enough for most manoeuvres on the motorway.
It even rides comfortably over all but the very worst surfaces and refinement is also good even on the worst tar and chipping surfaces.
The seats give excellent support, the driving position is perfect and interior space is good.
For me, the cee’d 1.0-litre GT Line really is right up there with the best in class.