For Those Who Prefer Vanilla over Spumoni I have a fondness for the Kia car company. The South Korean auto manufacturer only recently began as an underdog in the highly competitive North American auto industry. Guided by the principle of offering better value than the competition, Kia has been making significant inroads into almost every segment of the automotive industry - and I can't help but admire that.
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| In a short amount of time Kia has carved a niche for itself in the competitive North American market. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press) |
A test drive of the 2004 Magentis will likely validate such admiration for both the partisan and non-partisan of potential purchasers. I spent a week with my Kia subject and grew fairly attached to the easy-to-drive and easy-to-live-with Magentis. The relationship that developed was akin to that of living with a frugal, low-maintenance, accommodating - if not slightly boring - roommate.
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| The easy-to-drive and easy-to-live-with Magentis won't turn any heads, but that's not always a bad thing. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press) |
You see, there's nothing particularly special about the Magentis, other than its comfortable, easy going manner and high degree of value. That said, with its revised grill and front fascia for 2004, it is pleasant enough looking. Its conventionality, however, doesn't grab many second looks - and that may be a good thing for those of us who would rather blend in than stand out in a crowd. Exterior body panels are accurately fitted together and build quality is admirable for the low to mid-level segment.
Once behind the wheel of my top-of-the-line EX V6 model I was somewhat surprised to find myself immersed in such a comfortable, well-appointed cabin. Considering that the Magentis tops out slightly beneath the psychological barrier of $30K, Kia appears to have honored its principle of more-for-less.
