29th Apr 2009, 14:35

For now it is. Comparing a Skoda to a Ford was hysterical to say the least. Ever driven or ridden the new Skoda Superb? Try comparing that with an equivalent E-class Mercedes. Of course it did take the better of 15 or so years...

30th Apr 2009, 08:49

Yes, the Skoda Superb now beats the Mondeo in most road tests, and Kia has beaten many established rivals in tests.

I've used company BMWs and I am not that impressed, especially with the horrendous 1 series, which is probably the most uncomfortable car I have ever used.

The Kia is not as sharp, but a better all round proposition.

30th Apr 2009, 12:36

Comparing a Skoda to a Ford is one thing, comparing a Kia to a BMW is an altogether different comparison.

No I haven't driven a Skoda Superb, and I think I'll give the Skoda a miss.

The BMW 1 series is not even competing in the same market segment as the Kia Ceed. The Kia Ceed is in competition with the Proton Gen, Hyundai i30 etc. The BMW 1 series is up against the Audi A3, VW Golf etc.

Just because the Ceed costs one third the price, does not make it a better proposition.

30th Apr 2009, 14:46

You're a bit out of date, my old friend.

Maybe a few years ago Kia was laughable, but not now.

The Cee'd is a very good car indeed, and more modern than many premium cars.

If in doubt, actually go and look at one. Then maybe you will have the up to date information you need to make a valid comment.

I wonder why the 1 series did so badly on the satisfaction surveys? Totally impractical, cramped and expensive seem to top the comments.

The A3 is an older design than the Cee'd too.

If you want to badge buy, help yourself!! You ain't impressing us.

1st May 2009, 09:38

Ooooh BMW man, it's really amazing what tunnel vision you posses. You are the one that is doing the most comparing without any proof or justification it seems. You are entitled to your opinions, but do please, please go and test drive a Ceed, in fact try the whole Ceed range, then come back and tell us your "true", non blinkered experience. Your views will be better respected then. Most of our statements come from experience, not prejudice.

6th Oct 2009, 13:42

Wow. I was the guy that originally submitted this review on my Kia Ceed, and have just read the mass of postings (very interesting reading). I still have to say though that having driven and owned my Ceed for over a year now, I still think it is an absolutely great car, and think very highly of it. I do think that badge snobbery plays a massive part in peoples opinions, and this is why they can't just quite except that Kia is a really good car. As someone said previously: Kia drivers do not need their ego massaging by showing off a badge. Equally, then do not need to spend £30k for a BMW, when the Kia suits their needs (and pocket) just right.

On a final note: I think what Kia produce are excellent cars, and hope that my next car will be my fourth Kia (either the new model Venga or face lifted Ceed). Well done Kia, keep up the excellent work.

15th Dec 2009, 09:28

German car magazine AutoBild tested the Kia Cee'd during 100.000 km. As incredible as it may seem only the ashtray was replaced under warranty, there where no other faults!

Regarding the protection against corrosion seems to be some issues in zones unprotected (without protective wax), Kia says that owners of this cars with such a problem should contact the dealer.

Seems that we have again a new kind of Datsun around. ;-)

28th Dec 2009, 13:02

Am not sure what your point is, but if you are making a comparison with the early Datsuns, then I think in terms of manufacturing quality they were much better than the European built Ceeds. I drive a Ceed SW 1.6 diesel Auto and it has already gone back for leaky rear licence plate bulbs, and again to mend the rear securing bracket of the left hand rear arm of the roof bar. Would you believe this is loose and traps water!!! The design of this car is good, but the assembly and engineering could be better.

25th Apr 2010, 01:19

It's just a badge. Stick a VW, Ford, or Audi badge on it and it would sell like mad. I own an MGZR 05 reg; last cars made by Rover, and in 5 years and 80.000 miles only had one small door lock fault, that's it, and it's never let me down. And it's meant to be a crap car. Don't judge a book by its cover.

7th May 2010, 14:36

As a mechanic I can tell you Kia/Hyundai are as good as any Japanese car. BMW are good as well, but of course you pay more for the badge. Be happy with your car whatever it is. A hundred years ago you would have been on a horse.

16th Mar 2011, 18:47

Reading this debate makes me think of a Harry Enfield character (British TV) who likes to boast about how wealthy he is to everyone. He walks up to a man who is sitting at an hotel bar dressed in jeans and a T-shirt and says "I can't help noticing that I appear to have considerably more money than you. To which the man at the bar replies "I don't think so". After some debate about clothes, cars and general outward appearance defining how wealthy either one should, in the opinion of the character, be. The man at the bar says "well I own this hotel", to which the character accuses him of being rude and walks off in a huff.

Sometimes those who like to show the world how successful they are may feel they have something to prove. However those who are comfortable with their achievements, do not necessarily have to prove anything to others.

From what I have read and heard of the Kia Ceed, it is proving to be a well made and reliable car that gives excellent value for money. Forget percentage depreciation, as at the end of the day it is how many pounds, dollars, etc that it loses compared to the competition, and in this respect it appears to hold up very well.

6th Sep 2011, 14:58

Kia's are decent enough cars these days; more reliable than Vauxhalls anyway. Hyundai have a very good reputation for reliability too. You could laugh about Perodua too - a budget manufacturer for sure, BUT they are part of Daihatsu who are owned by Toyota. They also use the same engines as the Yaris. The days of people laughing because of the badge are long gone. Look at Skoda.