With a Kia badge and a low-cost price tag you might be expecting the interior to be a drab affair of grey plastic and ergonomically-challenged seats. Even the standard ‘1’ version of the Kia cee’d, however, looks quite upmarket given the price tag. The materials used are all of a relatively good quality, with nothing feeling overly flimsy, and chrome and silver accents break up the expanses of grey and black interior trim.

Pick a ‘3’ specification car or higher and the interior starts looking a lot more premium thanks to the addition of more equipment and better trim finishes, including gloss black fascia, console and door trims. The range-topping ‘4’ and ‘4 Tech’ cars get an attractive colour LCD display directly in front of the driver, further improving the look of the car’s dash.

All versions of the Sportswagon feel durable and hard wearing inside. It’s not too difficult to find a comfortable driving position either, partly thanks to a steering wheel that adjusts for rise and reach. All of the controls are easily accessed and obvious, the instrumentation is clear and visibility is good, helping make driving the Kia a stress-free affair.

For a car of its price Kia cee’d Sportswagon comfort is very good. There’s plenty of head and leg room in the front and the cabin doesn’t feel cramped. The only minor negative is that the seats are slightly unsupportive and lack sufficient side bolstering. That means you can move around a bit when cornering. In the back there’s just about room for three adults, and still plenty of head room, although leg room can become tight if the front seats are moved back substantially.

All three rear seats have headrests, further improving comfort for passengers, although ‘1’ specification cars don’t have a rear armrest. The cabin is for the most part quiet and refined. Road noise is generally low and wind noise is well muted, although at motorway speeds it does increase notably. The lower-specification models and 1.4-litre diesel, however, seem louder inside – both in terms of engine and road noise.

You don’t have to raise your voice to have a conversation with your passengers though. On the move the Sportswagon proves to be a relaxing car to travel in thanks to a smooth and controlled ride. The suspension is well damped and potholes, bumps and crests are dispatched with ease. There is a modicum of body roll during corners, due to the softer ride, but not enough to cause discomfort.

Higher specification models include Kia’s ‘Flex Steer’ system that increases steering weight and, while it only makes a minor difference, it does make the car feel more secure and controllable. If you’re going to be doing lots of cross-country and motorway driving it’s probably worth opting for a Sportswagon with this feature, as it will make the journey a little less tiring and stressful.

Any version of the Kia cee’d Sportswagon is ideal for both short and long trips alike and there’s little to cause the driver or passengers to become excessively tired, uncomfortable or irritated.