THE popular Kia XCeed compact crossover has proved to be a great success for the company since its launch back in 2019 and it accounts for 10 per cent of the company's UK sales and over 120,000 have been sold across Europe.

That figure is sure to growwith the arrival of the new model whichfeatures an even better looking muscular design, fresh trim levels and revised powertrains.

Based on the Ceed hatchback, the XCeed is a great compact family SUV that has much to offer in a crowded market.

The recent changes only add to its appeal and customers can now choose from grades called XCeed ‘2', GT-Line, ‘3' and GT-Line S (the ‘4' has been withdrawn) and prices range from £23,345 to £30,345.

In addition buyers can also select a plug-in hybrid version for the ‘3' trim costing £32,945.

I have just sampled the GT-Line S model which came in at £30,395 and was finished in very loud paint job which is the only thing about the car that I really did not like.

It certainly turned heads, but I am not sure it was all in a good way.

I would certainly opt for a less striking colour as the XCeed has enough eye-catching features including a gloss black radiator grille, panoramic sunroof, high gloss black roof rails, privacy glass, distinctive LED daytime running lights, new-look LED tail lights, smart 18-inch alloy wheels, along with body-coloured bumpers, door handles, side sill mountings and a rear spoiler.

The interior is well constructed, clutter-free and functional. This GT-Line S model featured black leather and suede seat upholstery, GT-Line badging, a floating 10.25-inch touchscreen navigation system, a 12.3-inch TFT cluster display and a leather trimmed flat-bottomed sports steering wheel.

To add to the premium feel the front and outer rear seats can be heated and memory settings mean the driver can save his or her favourite driving positions. The readouts, dials and controls are ideally positioned for ease of use and thankfully there is a separate panel for all the climate control functions.

A very good eight-speaker JBL sound system keeps you entertained on longer journeys and the car has Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone connection, a wireless mobile phone charger, Bluetooth as well as smart park assist for tight town situations. There is also a camera to help with reversing and plenty charging points to keep all the family happy.

Powered by a four-cylinder, 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine it was good for 158bhp. Mated to a smooth six-speed manual gearbox it could sprint from 0-60mph in 8.7 seconds and is capable of 129mph if you can find anywhere legally to try it.

When it comes to economy the car can deliver a combined 44.8mpg with emissions of 143g/km. Better economy can be found in the XCeed ‘3' PHEV model as well as good tax savings for business drivers.

The XCeed turned out to be a great companion in town and country conditions thanks to its good balance and sensible size. It is very agile, offered good all-round visibility and cruised nicely on motorway trips.

The fine suspension ironed out most rough surfaces and the ride was always comfortable with room for four adult passengers and five for shorter trips.

To add to its practicalcredentials, the bootis accessed via a powered tailgate for convenience and can accommodate 426 litres of luggage, increasing to 1,378 litres with the 60:40 split-folding rear seats dropped flat.

There are plenty handy storage compartments throughout the cabintoo, including practical door pockets, front and rear cup holders, a central cubby bin, seat back nets, a glovebox, plus a sunglasses compartment.