2019 Kia Ceed gets new engines, updated features list, improved interior space and a visually appealing exterior; features Lane Follow Assist for the first time in Europe
Kia has unveiled the new generation of its Ceed at the 2018 Geneva Motor Show with updated exterior and improved features. The C-segment in Europe is a hotly-contested space with some highly competitive vehicles on offer and the newest Ceed is expected to further set the bar higher. It is scheduled to go on sale in the left-hand-drive markets in Europe next quarter.
It will be produced at the South Korean brand’s Slovakian facility and it has been designed and developed in Germany. Set to enter production in May, the Ceed will be manufactured alongside the Venga and Sportage, and comes with new powertrains as well as mechanical changes for better economy and driving comfort respectively.
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Kia engineers have lowered the stance of the Ceed while making it wider and feature-rich. It has shortened front overhang by 20 mm and as much longer rear overhang compared to the second-generation model. The 2019 Ceed is 20 mm wider, 23 mm lower and has 2,650 mm wheelbase as before. The company says the changes have brought a mature sense of athleticism to the new five-door hatchback.
On the outside, the less pleasing bits are replaced by a sleek design that goes well with the signature tiger-nose grille. It also gets Ice Cube LED Daytime Running Lights, sporty air intake at the lower portion of the bumper and vertical fog lamp housing. Round the back, the horizontal LED tail lamps are brand new and the integrated roof spoiler adds visual strength to the vehicle.
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The roof line does not dip abruptly to help in roomy rear cabin and the tail gate window seems sufficient enough for the ease of parking visibility. Customers have the option to select from a range of paint schemes and wheel sizes as well. Stepping inside the cabin, the dashboard layout is revised to stand in line with latest Kias while the presence of floating touchscreen infotainment system, different upholstery selection, driver-focussed centre console and satin chrome finishes add a youthful appeal to the entire vehicle.
Keyless entry, auto headlamps and smartphone integration via Bluetooth are standard. The boot has 395 litres of volume and changes to overhangs have assisted in betterment of shoulder room, headroom. Based on the new K2 architecture, the 2019 Kia Ceed has low riding position and centre of gravity for better handling. The touchscreen ranges between 5.0, 7.0 or 8.0 inches and JBP Premium audio, heated windshield can be ticked off from the options list.
Drivers can select either Normal or Sport mode and the long list of optional equipment offers heated rear seats, heated and ventilated front seats and wireless smartphone integration among others. The standard driver assist features in the VW Golf rival are High Beam Assist, Driver Attention Warning, Lane Keeping Assist and Forward Collision Warning.
More importantly, it gets Lane Follow Assist in a Kia branded vehicle for the first time in Europe. Technologies like Rear Cross Traffic Collision Warning, Smart Parking Assist, Smart Cruise Control with Stop and Go, Blind Spot Collision Warning, Pedestrian Recognition with Haptic steering wheel warning for Forward Collision Avoidance Assist are made available as well.
The engine lineup comprises of an updated 1.0-litre T-GDi unit that produces 120 PS and a new 1.4-litre T-GDi making 140 PS. The 1.4-litre MPi petrol as well as a newly developed 1.6-litre CRDi U3 in two states of tune (115 PS and 136 PS) can be ordered as well. Transmission options include a six-speed manual and a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic.
2019 Kia Ceed Images
