Kia will raise its UK prices by 3% from April 1, blaming the weakness of the pound against international currency exchanges.

The increase will apply across the Kia range with the exception of the recently launched Soul and Magentis models.

Paul Philpott, managing director Kia Motors (UK), said: "We have held off on an increase for as long as possible and did not make any pricing changes during the first quarter.

"The increase we are making now will be kept to an absolute minimum and still maintains Kia's competitive position in the market.

"This has come about purely as a response to the weakness of the pound, and strength of the euro and dollar which have impacted on Kia Motors (UK) and the whole industry in recent months."