Kia’s advertising campaign claims the Cee’d is “Designed to Change Your Mind”.

And it does.

Traditionally, Kia has failed to tempt all but the most money-conscious buyers away from European brands.

There was no questioning they were good value for money, but brand snobbery and a reputation for poor quality, characterless cars proved too much.

With this in mind, I wasn’t expecting much from our long-termer but, despite mixed first impressions, the longer I’ve spent with the Cee’d the more I’ve found it shines as an all-rounder.

In its four months with AM it has effortlessly swallowed large loads and shrugged off thousands of motorway miles with only a minimal thirst for diesel, qualities which make it an absolute joy to live with.

Thankfully, it’s still priced like a Kia, and with the seven year warranty it’ll continue to keep buyers’ bank accounts happy.

It’s such good value even the most ardent badge snobs would find it difficult to turn up their noses.

Four months of high miles pushed the Cee’d over its 12,500-mile first service interval, and in May Boongate Kia in Peterborough was given the task of recharging our well-used load-lugger.

The service included convenient free lifts to and from the office, but surprisingly didn’t include a complimentary service wash.

Specification

Price: £15,195
Engine: 1.6-litre 16v diesel: 113bhp@4,000rpm; 188lbs/ft@1,900-2,750rpm
Performance 0-62mph: 11.7sec; top speed: 117mph; Transmission: 5sp man
Efficiency: 57.6mph (official); 45.4mpg (actual);
Test period: Feb-Aug
Start mileage: 7,264
Current mileage: 14,757
CAP RV 3yr/30k: 31% 60k: 27%
Likes: Comfortable and economical