We say Cheap, safe and reliable. That’s where the appeal lies, because it’s not much fun to drive.Performance Entry level 1.4 petrol is well suited to the Venga; it’s not fast, but it will handle everyday duties with ease. A weedy 1.4 diesel doesn’t feel right for the car. A decent 1.6 petrol is saddled with an autobox, which doesn’t stack up on the Venga either.Emissions CO2 emissions are between 117 – 164g/km the little petrol offers decent running costs. Up to 62mpg combined on the Venga EcoDynamics diesel is good too, boosted by stop-start technology.Driving Comfortable to drive; the suspension handles UK roads fairly well. Lots of grip too, but the Venga’s steering is horribly lifeless. The Venga will be good in the city however – and will cruise reasonably well.Feel Petrol engines are quiet but let in road- and wind-noise. The Venga’s diesels are very loud.Space Lots of space inside the Venga cabin and the boot is very big for its class at 440 litres, extending to a massive 1,253.Equipment Base Venga models come with electric front windows and air conditioning; alloys come in the second trim level.Price The Venga is competitively priced and is cheap to run. Residuals should be okay and running costs are all reasonable.Quality The Venga’s interior is full of hard plastics, but it should stand up to the test of time. Kia’s seven-year warranty backs this up.Safety Front, side, and curtain airbags and stability control are included in every model. Only four stars out of a maximum five in Euro NCAP testing.Pros Good fuel economy, spacious, good drive.Cons Not especially refined in any sense.Alternatives Renault Grand Modus, Citroen C3 Picasso
