Overall Rating |  |
Magentis packs a lot of equipment into a large car at a low price, and it's by no means bad to drive or ride in. Yet it just doesn't appeal to fussy executive car buyers.
For
- Impressively large executive saloon for little cash
- Lots of equipment imparts an illusion of luxury
- Smooth ride, spacious interior
Against
- Less refined than rivals at motorway speeds
- Kia have almost no credibility with UK executives
- Heavy depreciation if bought new
Road Test
Kia revised the big Magentis saloon closely related to Hyundai's Sonata after just 18 months on sale, bringing out a cut-price 2.0-litre to join the thirsty 2.7 V6. It's quick enough, and it cruises comfortably with the competent auto gearbox, but it feels like a Japanese saloon of the early 1990s rather than a competitive modern contender.
Magentis isn't helped by its looks, which give it away as a budget Far Eastern model designed primarily with the USA in mind. Depreciation is harsh.
The cabin, although superficially nice to look at, has some poor detailing, with nasty plastics, a cheaply-covered steering wheel and flimsy switchgear, and the leather upholstery is bargain-basement. Still, there's plenty of space up front, although rear legroom is poor for a car of this size. But it's very easy to drive, with light steering and simple controls. As such, it seems to suit its elderly, comfort-conscious, conservative buyers well.
Need To Know
Best Models: 2.0, 2.5 V6
Worst Models: 2.5 SE Sports H-Matic
Replacement: 2006
Alternatives
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Star Ratings
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