KIA CERATO 1.6 LX 5dr (2004)

Kia Cerato - Really dependable car for family driving

I always knew Kia had a reputation for reliable cars, so I gave the Kia Cerato a go. Now, I am not a race driver but I have to admit that it is a little bit... well, dull to drive! That is not a problem at all for me I have to say, all I'm interested in is getting the kids to school and the shopping and all that sort of boring stuff! I just wanted something that could do all that without breaking down every five minutes. It's dead easy to move around and park too. So if that's your car checklist then go for it.

There are some slightly surprising extra features that you might not expect, like the stereo plays MP3s which is very handy, certainly cuts down on the number of CDs I need to keep in the car. Generally though the main selling point is practicality. From front to back, top to bottom the Cerato is just one practical thing after another. It's got millions of little storage spaces and cubbies dotted about, including little bins above your head which is fab for maps and sunglasses and things you really don't want to be rummaging in a glove box for.

The boot is lovely and big. It fits all five of our things in there, even for Center Parcs trips. We put the bikes on a bike rack on top, and with all that weight it was perfectly happy.

I haven't had too many repairs need doing. There was a problem with the locking which we had to pay out for, but other than that nothing so far. We got ours second hand and it was a real bargain too, so I'm not too bothered about the occasional thing.

When my youngest was in a child seat, the special mountings in the back were really useful. I didn't have those in my last car, so that was a big plus. Now that my youngest is out of the child seat I'm glad that all the 3 seats in the back have got proper over the shoulder seat belts, that gives peace of mind. It's also got six airbags! I was a little concerned when I found out recently that it didn't actually score all that well in whatever safety test it is that they do, so I might look into that further. I suppose that might convince me to part with it in the end. I'll be sad to do so though because it's been so reliable, and I'll definitely look at other Kias first.