KIA has never been afraid to lead the way with its five, then seven year warranties, and it's latest sporty hatchback the pro_cee'd is yet another example of the company's success story.

It's a fact, the name pro_cee'd is definitely a typist's nightmare, but that's where the problems end. For this mid-sized family hatchback - derived from the cee'd family - is crammed with top notch features and design specifications.

And when you take into consideration the asking price of just over £14,500 and its combined fuel economy figure of 62.8mpg, the pro_cee'd is certainly a car for the fashion-conscious motorist with a watchful eye on their pocket.

Billed as the dynamic member of the family, the pro_cee'd has eye-catching, fashionable good looks with great streamlining, colour-coordinated door mirrors and handles, neat alloys and an exposed exhaust pipe.

And the good first impressions continue further once you take your seat at the wheel. I was really surprised just how spacious the pro_cee'd is¦ and that's true for back seat passengers too who are treated to plenty of leg room.

The rear windows allow plenty of light into the vehicle although one back seat passenger did complain a little as the rear windows cannot be lowered.

Creature comforts are plentiful with climate control, a multi-function steering wheel, leather trim, tinted windows, a six speaker sound system with MP3 compatibility and lots more.

This model was fitted with a 1.6-litre diesel engine which just loved to be let loose on the open road.

The power at your disposal is superb and you cannot fail to be impressed with its ability to accelerate at higher speeds with a full car and heavy luggage in the boot.

The vehicle's road-holding was excellent even on wetter road surfaces and another bonus was how quiet the cabin noise was even at higher speeds or on uneven roads.

In busier city centres, the pro_cee'd was a pleasure to drive as it weaved with ease through the congestion and parking was made simple thanks to the great all round visibility and parking sensor.

The generously-sized boot can easily accommodate all luggage requirements and there are numerous useful smaller compartments to hide away all your bits and bobs, including a cooled glove-box.

Kia has certainly not scrimped on safety either as the vehicle boasts a whole host of features including anti-lock brakes with electronic brakeforce distribution, active headrests, six airbags, doors that automatically unlock at impact and plenty more besides.