It’s hard to believe now, but there was a time when Kia wasn’t the household name it is today in the UK. Back in the mid-1990s, Kia was the new kid on the block, pitching budget-friendly models like the Sephia and Sportage to a skeptical audience. These early efforts were more about function than flair, but they did what they set out to do: provide no-frills motoring at prices that made eyebrows raise and wallets breathe a sigh of relief.

Fast forward to the 2000s, and Kia’s fortunes began to change – dramatically. The introduction of the industry-shaking seven-year warranty in 2007 was a game-changer, making car buyers sit up and take notice. Suddenly, Kia wasn’t just about value for money; it was about confidence in its products.

Models like the Cee’d (complete with its Top Gear endorsed star status) and the funky Soul added personality to the brand. And then came the design revolution, led by ex-Audi designer Peter Schreyer. The once-plain cars transformed into stylish, head-turning contenders that still undercut rivals on price. The Stinger, in particular, turned heads and proved Kia could do performance as well as practicality.

Today, Kia is a staple on UK roads, offering everything from compact runarounds to fully electric SUVs like the EV6, which has earned critical acclaim. Its evolution mirrors the way we’ve grown to trust and embrace the brand – from “who’s Kia?” to “look at that Kia!”

With its commitment to sustainability, cutting-edge tech, and that unbeatable warranty, Kia’s UK success story is a masterclass in reinvention. Who’d have thought those humble beginnings would lead to this?

And so, Muddy Madam and I, along with my fellow peers from the Northern Group of Motoring Writers, was invited to a Kia media drive day at the stunning Matfen Hall in Newcastle. Set against the picturesque Northumberland countryside, this exclusive event offered a chance to experience Kia’s latest models firsthand, from cutting-edge EVs to the newest petrol and hybrid options

Kia EV6 GT-Line S AWD (£57,175 as tested)

When it comes to electric vehicles, the Kia EV6 GT-Line S AWD proves that going green doesn’t mean sacrificing style or substance. On a crisp drive towards the lovely village of Corbridge this futuristic crossover impressed with its blend of comfort, practicality, and speed. Seriously, you try not to, but with so much power on tap it’s difficult not to bury the throttle and be pushed hard into the seat.

On-Road Ride
The EV6 GT-Line S AWD feels planted and assured on the road, with its dual-motor setup delivering an impressive 321bhp. The acceleration is brisk, as I memtioned, taking you from 0-60mph in just over five seconds, while the suspension strikes a good balance between sporty firmness and everyday comfort. It’s not a floaty ride – Kia’s engineers have leaned towards a sharper setup, but it’s smooth enough for motorway cruising and controlled over uneven surfaces. A joy for both spirited drives and sedate Sunday strolls.

Interior Spec and Comfort
Step inside, and the EV6 greets you with a cabin that feels more premium than you might expect. Dual curved 12.3” screens dominate the dash, offering sharp graphics and intuitive functionality. The vegan leather upholstery is soft and supportive, and the heated and ventilated front seats are perfect for our ever-unpredictable British weather. Rear passengers get ample legroom, thanks to the EV6’s long wheelbase, making it a comfortable choice for longer journeys.

Practicality
The boot offers a respectable 490 litres of space (1,300 litres with the seats folded), enough for a family’s weekend kit or a few adventurous camping essentials. There’s also a front storage compartment – or “frunk” – for charging cables, adding a touch of practicality.

Efficiency and Safety
With a 77.4kWh battery, the EV6 promises a range of up to 300 miles – though expect less in cold weather or if you’re heavy with the right foot. Charging is a doddle with ultra-fast 800V capabilities, giving you 10-80% in just 18 minutes at a compatible station. On the safety front, Kia’s suite of assistance systems includes adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot collision avoidance, all working seamlessly to keep you safe.

Overall, the Kia EV6 is a stylish and capable all-rounder, combining cutting-edge tech with practicality and an enjoyable driving experience, whether you’re commuting or exploring the countryside.

Kia Ceed Sportswagon '2' 1.5 T-GDi (£23,850 as tested)

The Kia Ceed Sportswagon might not be the flashiest member of Kia’s line-up, but for those who value practicality, comfort, and a bit of driving fun, the 1.5-litre T-GDi in the ‘2’ trim ticks all the right boxes. On the winding roads around Matfen Hall, this versatile estate proved itself as a well-rounded and capable daily driver.

On-Road Ride
Equipped with a punchy 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine producing 138bhp, the Ceed Sportswagon feels lively without being overbearing. The 6-speed manual gearbox is slick and precise, making it an enjoyable drive whether you’re pottering about town or navigating twisty backroads. The suspension leans towards comfort, soaking up bumps with ease while maintaining composure in corners. It’s not sporty, but it’s perfectly suited to everyday British roads – a trusty companion for commutes and family adventures alike.

Interior Spec and Comfort
Inside, the ‘2’ trim keeps things simple but effective. The 8” touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is intuitive and well-placed, offering seamless connectivity. The cloth seats are supportive and surprisingly plush, and there’s plenty of adjustment for the driver to find the perfect position. Rear passengers aren’t left out, either, there’s generous legroom and headroom for adults, even on longer journeys.

Practicality
The Ceed Sportswagon excels in the practicality department, boasting a class-leading 625-litre boot that expands to 1,694 litres with the rear seats folded flat. Whether it’s luggage for a holiday or gear for a weekend camping trip, this estate is ready to handle it all. There’s also clever underfloor storage, keeping the clutter out of sight but easily accessible.

Efficiency and Safety
With a combined fuel economy of up to 49.6mpg, the Ceed Sportswagon won’t have you constantly hunting for petrol stations. Its mild-hybrid-like efficiency is a nod to eco-conscious buyers. Safety-wise, Kia’s package includes forward collision avoidance, lane-keeping assist, and a rear-view camera, giving peace of mind whether you’re on the motorway or squeezing into tight car parks.

For those seeking a no-nonsense estate with a dash of fun and plenty of practicality, the Kia Ceed Sportswagon delivers in spades. It’s proof that estates are far from boring – they’re just quietly brilliant at everything they do.

Kia Sportage GT-Line HEV 1.6 T-GDi (£35,985 as tested)

The Kia Sportage has been a familiar sight on UK roads for years, but the GT-Line HEV 1.6 T-GDi takes this popular SUV to new heights. With a sporty design, hybrid efficiency, and a practical edge, it’s a great companion for family life or weekend adventures.

On-Road Ride
Powered by a 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol engine paired with a hybrid system, the Sportage GT-Line HEV delivers a combined 207bhp. While the front-wheel-drive setup is less rugged than its AWD sibling, it’s more than capable on the tarmac, offering a smooth and refined ride. The suspension strikes a sweet spot, absorbing bumps effortlessly while keeping body roll in check on twistier roads. It’s confident and composed, making long drives a breeze.

Interior Spec and Comfort
The cabin of the GT-Line HEV is a standout, blending style with substance. The dual 12.3” curved displays dominate the dashboard, providing crisp visuals and intuitive controls. Leather and faux suede seats add a touch of luxury, with heating for both front and rear passengers. The sporty flat-bottom steering wheel and contrasting red stitching elevate the ambience, giving it a more premium feel than you’d expect in this segment.

Practicality
The Sportage shines in the practicality stakes. With 587 litres of boot space (expanding to 1,776 litres with the seats down), it comfortably handles everything from shopping hauls to camping gear. Rear passengers enjoy ample leg and headroom, while clever storage solutions throughout the cabin keep clutter at bay.

Efficiency and Safety
The hybrid system offers up to 49.6mpg (combined), making it a frugal choice for families wanting to reduce running costs without compromising on performance. Safety is another strong point, with Kia’s comprehensive suite of driver aids including blind-spot collision avoidance, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control.

The Kia Sportage GT-Line HEV 1.6 T-GDi is a masterclass in modern SUV design. It’s stylish, efficient, and practical while delivering a comfortable and engaging driving experience. For those who want hybrid efficiency wrapped in a head-turning package, it’s hard to find fault with this all-rounder.

Kia Stonic ‘2’ 1.0 T-GDi (£21,265 as tested)

The Kia Stonic proves that good things really do come in small packages. This compact SUV combines practicality, efficiency, and a cheeky sense of fun, making it an ideal choice for urban explorers and young families alike.

On-Road Ride
Powered by a 1.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine with 98bhp, the Stonic is nippy and responsive, perfect for darting through city traffic or cruising down B-roads. The 6-speed manual gearbox is smooth and engaging, adding a bit of driver involvement that’s often missing in the SUV segment. The suspension errs on the firmer side, keeping body roll in check but still managing to absorb most road imperfections with ease. It’s lively yet composed, and compact enough to make parking and tight manoeuvres a doddle.

Interior Spec and Comfort
Inside, the Stonic ‘2’ offers a straightforward yet well-equipped cabin. The 8” touchscreen, complete with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, keeps you connected on the go. The cloth seats are supportive and comfy, even on longer journeys, while the elevated driving position provides excellent visibility. Rear seat space is adequate for two adults or three children, though taller passengers might find legroom a bit snug.

Practicality
Despite its compact size, the Stonic impresses with its 352-litre boot, easily swallowing the weekly shop or a couple of weekend bags. Fold the rear seats down, and you’ve got 1,155 litres to play with – more than enough for those occasional IKEA runs. Handy door bins and storage cubbies keep the cabin clutter-free.

Efficiency and Safety
With a combined fuel economy of around 51.4mpg, the Stonic won’t break the bank at the pump. It’s also packed with safety features, including lane-keeping assist, forward collision-avoidance, and driver attention warning, offering peace of mind on every journey.

The Kia Stonic ‘2’ 1.0 T-GDi is proof that you don’t need a big SUV to enjoy big benefits. It’s practical, efficient, and fun to drive, all wrapped up in a stylish, compact package. Whether it’s the daily commute or a weekend away, the Stonic is ready to roll with you.

Kia Picanto GT-Line 1.0 (£16,745 as tested)

The Kia Picanto GT-Line 1.0 proves that you don’t need a hefty engine or a hefty price tag to have a lot of fun. With its sporty styling, clever features, and city-friendly proportions, this little dynamo punches well above its weight.

On-Road Ride
Powered by a sprightly 1.0-litre three-cylinder engine producing 62bhp, the Picanto GT-Line might not win drag races, but it’s more than capable of zipping around town. Paired with a slick 5-speed manual gearbox, it’s a joy to drive, offering light and precise steering that makes tight corners and parallel parking a cinch. On the open road, the suspension handles uneven surfaces with surprising composure, and while it’s no motorway cruiser, it holds its own at higher speeds.

Interior Spec and Comfort
Step inside, and the Picanto GT-Line greets you with a sporty yet practical cabin. The red accents, faux leather seats, and a flat-bottomed steering wheel lend a sense of occasion, while the 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto ensures you stay connected. Despite its compact dimensions, the Picanto makes good use of space. The front seats are comfortable, and while rear legroom is predictably tight, it’s still fine for young passengers.

Practicality
For a car in the city car class, the Picanto offers respectable practicality. The 255-litre boot is enough for a big food shop or a weekend bag, and folding the rear seats expands that to 1,010 litres, perfect for occasional IKEA runs or road trips. Clever cubbies and door pockets keep everyday essentials within easy reach.

Efficiency and Safety
Fuel economy is a standout feature, with a figure of up to 56mpg, making it one of the cheapest cars to run in its class. Safety isn’t overlooked either, with lane-keeping assist, forward collision avoidance, and hill-start assist as standard.

The Kia Picanto GT-Line 1.0 might be small, but it’s big on style, fun, and practicality. It’s the ideal companion for city slickers and anyone who wants an economical car with a bit of personality. A small car with a big heart – and one that’s hard to resist.

Kia EV9 ‘Air’ (£65,025 as tested)

The Kia EV9 ‘Air’ is Kia’s audacious leap into the world of large electric SUVs. With its striking design, spacious seven-seat layout, and cutting-edge tech, this electric powerhouse is a serious contender for families looking to embrace the future.

On-Road Ride
The EV9 ‘Air’ is powered by a 99.8kWh battery pack, providing an impressive combined range of 349 miles, and city range of 480 miles. Its dual-motor setup delivers 350bhp and 600Nm of torque, which means this hefty SUV can surge from 0-60mph in 9.4 seconds - according to the spec sheet, but it felt much, much quicker. Despite its size, the EV9 handles with surprising agility, offering a composed and smooth ride. It’s whisper-quiet, thanks to its electric drivetrain, and its adaptive suspension irons out imperfections, making even long journeys a pleasure.

Interior Spec and Comfort
The EV9’s cabin is a masterclass in modern minimalism and comfort. The ‘Air’ trim features high-quality materials, a sleek dashboard with a 12.3” dual display setup, and plenty of tech, including wireless smartphone charging and a premium sound system. Seating for seven is generous, with the second row offering ample legroom and reclining options, while the third row is genuinely usable for adults on shorter trips. The panoramic sunroof and ambient lighting add a sense of luxury.

Practicality
With families in mind, the EV9 excels in practicality. The 828-litre boot (with the third row folded) swallows luggage and more, and when all seats are in place, there’s still enough room for everyday essentials. Storage spaces abound, with thoughtful touches like USB-C ports for all passengers and underfloor storage for charging cables.

Efficiency and Safety

The EV9 isn’t just about style and size – it’s efficient too. Ultra-fast charging adds 149 miles in just 15 minutes, and regenerative braking maximises range in stop-start traffic. Safety is top-notch, with Kia’s Highway Drive Assist, blind-spot monitoring, and a suite of advanced driver aids ensuring peace of mind.

The Kia EV9 ‘Air’ is more than just a seven-seat SUV; it’s a bold statement of what family cars can be. It’s spacious, stylish, and effortlessly efficient – a futuristic family hauler that’s hard to ignore.  It’s just a shame that Kia don’t produce a hybrid version for those of us without access to a home charger and have to rely on the extortionate road-side prices.

As the day drew to a close, it wasn’t just the impressive lineup of Kia vehicles that left a lasting impression. From the nimble Picanto to the bold EV9, each car showcased Kia’s commitment to innovation, practicality, and driver satisfaction. Whether it was tackling the open road in the sporty Sportage GT-Line HEV or experiencing the seamless electric prowess of the EV9, Kia’s range demonstrated its versatility and appeal to a wide variety of drivers.

However, what truly elevated the experience was the outstanding hospitality provided by Kia’s PR team. From start to finish, their organisation, attention to detail, and warm professionalism made the day feel seamless and enjoyable. They went above and beyond to ensure we had everything we needed, whether it was engaging discussions about the cars, or simply a good laugh in the bar after tea (dinner to the southerners amongst us!).  Most definitely a day well spent.