Kia Sorento ON THE ROAD

Review & Photos by Rob McSorley

At first glance this 'new' Sorento may appear to be a mildly revised version of the outstanding car but actually Kia state that it only shares its roof, doors, bonnet and windscreen with the old model. So where have all of the changes been made? Well there are changes to the exterior but most are under the skin as this Sorento actually sits on an all-new platform shared with its Sante Fe cousin. When we sample the previous generation last year we found it to be hugely practical and rugged if a little dull and cumbersome to drive. The new model promises to change this, read on to find it if it succeeds.

Volkswagen Passat Alltrack ON THE ROAD

Review & Photographs by Rob McSorley

The Volkswagen Passat is one of those cars that is often the default choice for both private and fleet buyers who want a no-nonsense family car offering plenty of space and refinement. But what about those who like the reassurance of all-wheel-drive for driving in trickier conditions? Volkswagen is widening the appeal of the Passat Estate with this, the new Alltrack. It comes with permanent four wheel drive, raised suspension and beefy body mouldings and rivals the likes of the Audi A4 AllRoad and Volvo XC70 by offering similar levels of space and kit. Its trump card however is its price which undercuts both rivals by over £5,000 kicking off at £28,580. We find out if its a credible rival.

Kia Cee'd Sportswagon ON THE ROAD

Review & Photos by Rob McSorley

Having already been impressed by Kia's second generation Cee'd when we tested the hatch in September last year the brand are building on its success with this, the new Sportswagon. Aimed at small families who need a little extra space in the luggage department this new addition to the Cee'd family offers subtle good looks and plenty of additional space in the boot. When we tested a fully loaded 'Tech 4' hatch we felt that although it came loaded with standard equipment it was a little too pricey and were convinced lower trim levels would shine more brightly. So here we are testing the most basic trim level logically named '1' to see how it compares.