In the midst of a busy revamp of its model line-up, Korean car firm Kia has launched its new Magentis, the biggest difference being that this time it's a more mainstream family saloon with both petrol and diesel options.
As with virtually every new car these days, the new Kia can boast more space inside given that it is taller, wider and longer than its predecessor.
The arrival of the Magentis heralds the introduction of new Carens and Carnival people carriers this year and a refreshed Sorento this autumn.
Kia's model line-up is one of the youngest on the market and this revamp leaves the Picanto, introduced in June 2004, as the oldest model in Kia's fleet.
Magentis prices start at €25,795 for the 2-litre petrol LX model, while the diesel models start at €28,495. That's an average of €2,000 less than the Sonata family saloon from sister Korean brand Hyundai.
The new diesel version is powered by a modified version of the 138bhp 2-litre CRDi diesel engine currently used in the Sportage range. Fitted with a six-speed manual gear-box as standard, it manages to reach 100km/h from standing start in 10.4 seconds, with a maximum speed of 201km/h. Combined fuel consumption is 47.1mpg. With the optimal four-speed automatic gearbox, the comparative figures are 0-100km/h in 11.7 seconds, top speed 200km/h, while combined consumption is 38.7mpg.
The 2-litre petrol version puts out 142bhp and is matched to a five-speed manual gearbox. Its 0-100km/h time is 10.2 seconds with a top speed of 208km/h and combined fuel consumption of 36.7mpg.
Depending on the model selected, customers can choose from two equipment levels - LX and EX.
Standard specification on the LX includes ABS, climate control, front, side and curtain airbags, ESP, power and heated door mirrors, remote central locking, four electric windows, driver's seat height adjustment, tilt adjust steering column and a leather-wrapped steering wheel.
The EX specification adds leather seats, cruise control, and heated front seats.
Next up for Kia will be the introduction of a new competitor in the family hatchback market, competing with the likes of the Ford Focus and Toyota Corolla. Currently codenamed the C'eed, it is set for launch in September at the Paris motor show and will arrive here early next year.
