The Kia XCeed has a higher ride height, a range of cheap-to-run engines and lots of kit as standard. There are more comfortable SUVs with better rear space, though.
Pros Eye-catching looks Good range of engines Well equipped as standard
Cons Bumpy in town So-so digital dials Limited back-seat space
On the styling front, Kia has done a fairly good job.Despite what the cladding may suggest, the XCeed is still front-wheel drive only. it’s a Ceed hatch that has been raised by 44mm to create an almost-crossover. We say almost, because Kia already sells the Sportage as a crossover and the Sorento as a full-size SUV.
Pros Better looking than a Merc GLA and comparatively much cheaper
Cons Do you really need a coupé-ified crossover hatchback on stilts?
If the design, ergonomics and credible dynamics of the most recent Ceed demonstrate that Kia should now be considered alongside any other European maker of mass-market hatchbacks, then the Xceed is the derivative perfectly tailored to the current tastes of European buyers.
Pros More satisfying to drive than the class average, with good steering Attractive appearance gives the Xceed a good measure of personality
Cons Low-speed ride exhibits hard edges, despite the raised ride height Expensive compared with some rival cars
Oh yes, it’s another dinky SUV. But it’s hard to be angry at something wearing the face of a robotic chipmunk like this Peugeot 2008 does.It’s an aesthetically pleasing thing all round, really, looking like it was designed from the off as an individual model. As opposed to the old 2008, which had the demeanour of a 208 hatchback carrying Christmas weight. This new one looks big, mind, and indeed it’s longer and more commodious than before.
Pros Fancy dials, great petrol engines and a decent EV
Cons Firm (ish) ride, pricey if you tick too many boxes
Pros Eye-catching design inside and out Broad range of engine options Cabin is spacious, plus big boot
Cons Top-spec models can be pricey 3D digital dials take some getting used to Driving position still won’t suit all
Stylish inside and out with plenty of substance to match, the Peugeot 2008 is a polished and practical small SUV. Its ride and handling may not particularly inspire, and the high-spec models are incredibly pricey, but the lower-end – and still decently equipped – versions are thoroughly recommendable.
Pros Brilliant interior quality Excellent rear seat space Frugal engines
Cons Bumpy low speed ride Top models are very expensive Average-size boot with rear seats up
