KIA has promised a 'fairer deal' for UK car buyers by giving its new range of cars some of the lowest prices in Europe. The South Korean importer has promised that the lower prices represent a long-term commitment to drive down new car prices in the UK, and will not just be short-term promotional offers.

Mark Quinn, Kia managing director, said UK car buyers are paying too much for their new cars and that this will lead to an overwhelming downward pressure on retail prices in the UK. 'Kia is recognising this issue and taking positive action by announcing prices for its new model line-up to reflect this price realignment,' he said. 'This will make a significant step towards closing the price gap between the UK and the lowest price markets in Europe.'

Kia has cut £749 from the price of its cheapest car, the Pride three-door S, which now hits the road at £5,495, while its most expensive vehicle, the Sportage SX is £1,359 cheaper at £13,995. In between the Pride and Sportage are three new models, the Shuma five-door hatchback, the four-door Mentor II and the lower medium sector Clarus four-door saloon, which joined Kia's range on June 19.

The Shuma range extends from the 1.5 S at £8,495 to the £11,595 1.8 GSX, the Mentor II costs from £8,495 for the 1.5 S to £9,995 for the 1.5 SX, while the Clarus, which includes air conditioning as standard across the range, starts at £10,995 for the 1.8 SX rising to £13,495 for the 2.0 Executive.