Owning

The Kia's length, width and stretched wheelbase provide excellent legroom in the rear. The boot is also generous, with a 420-litre luggage capacity. In the front, though, the cabin doesn't give you the same sense of space, because the driving position is flawed. Upper-range LS and V6 models get an electric driver's seat as standard, but it doesn't adjust low enough. The amount of reach and rake movement on the steering wheel isn't sufficient, either, so you end up feeling cramped. Seats don't offer much side support either. And although the Kia is very well screwed together, it is summed up by annoying touches such as the aftermarket-style radio and indicators that are on the wrong side of the steering wheel - which ruin the everyday ownership experience. The weighting of the controls could also be better. But equipment levels are very good indeed, though arguably they have to be, given some steep list prices. Depreciation will also be a bit steep, while returns of 38.8mpg from our diesel test car were disappointing - though it had very few miles on the clock. Looser engines often return better figures.

    See also:

    Overheating
    If your temperature gauge indicates overheating, if you experience a loss of power, or if you hear a loud knocking or pinging noise, the engine has probably overheated. Should any of these symptom ...

    SOLID RIDE WITH POWER TO SPARE AND EXCELLENT FUEL ECONOMY
    In terms of driving characteristics, the Optima is very much in keeping with the Hyundai Sonata, which shares the same platform. The cabin is quiet and the drive is smooth, with the Optima feeling ...

    Seating
    The Rio can accommodate five passengers, but reviewers recommend that you limit it to four since the rear seat can be a squeeze for adults. The front seats may also be a tight fit for taller adult ...