The new Pegas has a best-in-class boot size of 475 litres and a spacious interior aimed at first-time buyers and value-seeking families, according to the manufacturer.

Measuring 4 300 mm in length, the Pegas is one of the largest vehicles in the A/B-class. Its long (2 570 mm) wheelbase means the Pegas offers ample cabin space for all passengers, front and rear.

It is immediately recognisable as a member of the Kia family with its horizontal ‘face’ with the brand’s famous ‘tiger nose’ grille, a DNA signature common to all Kia vehicles around the world.

Inside, the Pegas has a contemporary dashboard with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system incorporating a reverse camera with dynamic guidelines, a standard fitment throughout the range (alongside rear park-distance control sensors). The system also has Bluetooth connectivity, a USB port and wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It can be controlled handsfree and safely via switches on the steering wheel.

Depending on the model grade, the Pegas’s interior is trimmed in either cloth or leather, and all variants offer cupholders and a central armrest for the driver.

The Pegas is powered by the latest incarnation of Kia’s 1.4-litre petrol engine, which produces 69 kW and 132 Nm. The engine drives the front wheels, and the vehicle is available with a choice between a five-speed manual transmission or a four-speed automatic.

Two trim levels will be available. Feature highlights on the entry-level LX derivative, to name but a few, include: 7-inch infotainment with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, remote central locking, rear-view camera with rear park distance control, air-conditioning, front and rear electric windows, electric mirrors, 6 speakers, steering wheel remote controls, 14-inch steel wheels and automatic headlights.

The EX-models add a leather steering wheel, faux-leather seat trim, front fog lights, driver’s seat height adjuster, cruise control, chromed door handles, 14-inch alloy wheels and side-mounted indicators.

All models have ABS with EBD, dual front airbags and ISOFIX child-seat anchoring points.

• Pricing (June 2021):

Pegas 1.4 LX Manual (R225 995), Pegas 1.4 EX Manual (R236 995) and the Pegas 1.4 EX Auto (R251 995).

• Competitors:

Fiat Tipo, Honda Amaze, Suzuki Ciaz/DeZire, Ford Fogo and the entry-level Polo Sedan.