KIA'S Venga supermini aims to offer family space and practicality in a smaller package and does a surprisingly good job.

It recently won best in class at the Auto Express New Car Awards and there are many good reasons why - including a seven year warranty.

I managed to get two kids on booster seats plus their mum into the back and Grandma in the front for a day out. There aren't many superminis with that kind of space.

The driving position is quite high, which gives great all-round vision, and all the important controls are within easy reach.

The ride is comfortable over most surfaces and it smoothes out lumps and bumps very well for a smaller car.

The tall body means there is some lean in corners, but it is still very stable and gives plenty of grip.

The willing 1.4-litre petrol engine offers plenty of verve in town and is no slouch on the open road, but I did have to work the gearbox to get its best.

Getting the family in is one thing but too often, small cars offer precious little space for their stuff.

 Ford Fiesta