Kia Carens

Performance

One petrol and one diesel 2.0-lite engine. The latter is the better model across the board and is available with a four-speed auto box.

Driving

Steering is light but it's nippy around town. Body lean and soft ride make for a disconcerting drive.

Feel

Noisy engines and wind noise combine to make a, erm, noisy ride

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Price

Good value considering it's stuffed with kit. Running costs good; residuals bad.

Quality

Looks decent inside, a big step up for Kia interiors.

Safety

Six bags, ABS, brakeforce distribution all standard. Traction control an option.

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Space

Room for five adults and two kids. Decent space with the rear seats folded but tiny with them up.

Equipment

Well-specced with alloys, aircon and more as standard.

Alternatives

Daihatsu Matrix

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Pros

Decent MPV for the money.

Cons

Indifferent engines and drive.

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