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The most popular small car in the UK by miles, The Ka
still looks great despite being launched way back in 1996. It took seven
years before any significant changes were made too, but in 2003 there are
a couple of noteworthy improvements. The original 1.3 is replaced by a new
version with 70bhp instead of 60bhp, and there is also a 1.6-litre model,
the SportKa, with 95bhp. This addition is intended to offer competition
for 'warm' hatchbacks like the Citroen C2 VTR, cars that offer fairly
strong performance without too high an insurance penalty. The SportKa
almost hits the mark, with the sexy alloy wheels and lowered suspension
giving it the right look. The chassis is remarkably able too, with sharp
steering and great grip in the bends plus a slick gearchange. The engine
is the weak link, disappointingly noisy when worked hard and really not
that fast.
The standard Ka has most of the SportKa's virtues
and vices. Though obviously not as quick, it is still fun to drive, with a
ride that makes it a composed companion both for motorway trips and
country road thrashes. Despite its very cramped rear compartment and boot,
it feels like a big car from behind the wheel. The seats may be small but
the driving position is fine for short and tall, and you rarely feel like
you're making compromises, thanks to impressive overall refinement.
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