2014 Kia Rio

This helped establish them as one of the serious competitors in the small-family segments where the likes of Ford and Volkswagen hold sway. The Rio is a great good looking car that drives really well and isn’t hard on your wallet. It is so much smarter looking now with the grille and headlights among its more distinctive touches. There is a lot of space in the cabin and there will be no complaints when it comes to leg and head room. It is well fitted and kitted out with body-coloured bumpers, central locking, multiple airbags, audio remote, and height adjustable seats all there. At the wheel, the Rio has excellent handling and plenty of grip. The ride quality can be firm but still quite comfortable. It does well on city streets, but can hold its own on the motorway too. There are four engines; all efficient and with good fuel economy figures.

•  There were some complaints that it can suffer with minor electrical faults

•  Excellent fuel economy; better than most in its class

•  Smartly designed exterior and interior

•  It is reasonably inexpensive to buy and run

•  Great car to drive; at home on city streets or motorway

•  Road noise can be a bit annoying when driving at speed