THE all-newKiaCeed arrived in the summer of 2018 and the family hatchback continues to be popular in the UK.

This latest model offers a leap in quality, safety and style and with 11 variants based on three engines, two transmissions and four trim levels, buyers are certain to be able to find exactly the right model for their needs.

Lower, wider and with a longer rear overhang the new Ceed also shed weight and gained class in the process. It now looks sportier than before with sleek clean lines and that trademark tiger-nose grille.

The Ceed - now without that confusing apostrophe - is built in Slovakia and more than 130,000 of them have found their way on to British roads since the Zelina factory started producing them back in December 2006.

Designed and engineered for European customers the newcomer looks more elegant than the model it replaces but it is still instantly clocked as a Ceed.

There is now a lower air intake and the front also features 'ice-cube' LED running lights as standard across the range while thebonnet is longer and the profile smoother providing a more mature style. At the rear the rump is neater with a subtle spoiler and LED daytime running lights to make the car more visible.

Kiahas dropped the former entry-level 1 trim as few customers were selecting it, so the range now starts in 2 trim costing from £18,295 but that includes a lot of standard equipment that is an option on rival models.

For that you get cruise control, air con, all-round electric windows, automatic lights, 16-inch alloy wheels, frontfoglampsand LED rear lights. Inside you get a leather-trimmed steering wheel andgearleveras well as a seven-inch touchscreen, DAB radio, Android Auto and AppleCarPlay.

Safety kit is also generous and includes Lane Keeping Assist, High Beam Assist, Hill Start Assist, Driver Attention Warning and forward Collision-Avoidance Assist.

I sampled both petrol and diesel models at the launch back in July but have recently spent some time with the Ceed 2 powered by the latest fuel efficient 1.6 diesel engine.

Step inside the new model and the first thing you notice is the improved quality. Soft touch materials now feature throughout and surfaces are finished with metallic or satin chrome trim.

The dash is split into two levels and is well laid out and angled towards the driver for ease of use. The switches and controls feel good to touch and the dials are large and easy to read.

The touchscreen, navigation and entertainment systems are easy to operate and all-round visibility is good.

Following recent trends the petrol models will be the big sellers but 1.6-litre diesel offers bags of grunt and also meets all the latest European legislation emission figures.

It is ideal for those who clock highmileages as it is capable of up to 74.3 mpg on the combined cycle. It is no slouch either with a 0-60mph time of 10.6 seconds and a top speed of 118mph.

It also handles well with meaty steering that is sharp and direct and the ride comfort is good if a little on the firm side.

The new suspension provides a much better ride and it deals well with our bumpy road surfaces.

The hatchback offers loads of space and five adults can travel comfort and still have room for up to 395 litres of luggage. With the rear seats folded flat up to 1,291 litres becomes available.