Geneva Motor Show: The Innovative Third Generation KIA c'eed

6 Posted: 6th Mar 2018
Geneva Motor Show: The Innovative Third Generation KIA c'eed

Production starts in May, with European sales due to begin by the end of Q2 2018.

  • The new KIA c'eed makes its public debut at the 2018 Geneva International Motor Show. Now in its third generation, the c'eed – designed, developed, engineered and built in Europe – strengthens KIA’s presence in the European C-segment with innovative new technologies, a mature and athletic new design, and a more engaging drive.

    Since the first-generation KIA cee’d started production at KIA’s new Slovakian manufacturing facility in December 2006, more than 1.28 million units have been built. A new naming format – cee’d becomes c'eed – consolidates its reputation as a car for the Community of Europe, with European Design. More than 640,000 of the second-generation model have been built since production began in 2012. As it enters its third iteration, the c'eed is expected to account for an even greater proportion of KIA’s European sales.

    Like its predecessors, the model has been designed, developed and engineered in Frankfurt by KIA’s European design, product development and R&D teams. It will be manufactured at the brand’s production facility in Žilina, Slovakia, alongside the KIA Sportage and KIA Venga.

    Michael Cole, Chief Operating Officer for KIA Motors Europe, comments: “The KIA c'eed has been a lynchpin in the brand’s consistent growth across Europe for more than a decade. Created for European buyers, the introduction of the c'eed in 2006 represented a watershed moment for KIA.

    “Building on these solid foundations, the all-new c'eed offers a truly contemporary and recognisable design, and advanced technologies to enhance comfort, convenience and safety. Its new engines and suspension will make it more enjoyable and engaging to drive, and will continue to offer the same high quality that customers expect from KIA. This will be one of the most innovative cars in its class.”

    The five-door hatchback will enter production in May. Sales of the c'eed will begin in Q2 of 2018 in left-hand-drive markets across Europe. The UK on-sale date and pricing will be announced in due course.

  • An expanded role for the Ceed in the European C-segment

    In 2017, the C-segment accounted for 22 per cent of all European vehicle sales, and is consistently one of the two largest segments by volume. The outgoing cee’d accounted for 16 per cent of KIA’s total European sales in 2017, and has consistently ranked alongside the Sportage as one of the brand’s best-selling models in Europe since its re-launch in 2012.

    Michael Cole comments: “In 2006, KIA’s share of the European market was around 1.5 per cent. In 2017, our market share reached 3.0 per cent*. Since the introduction of the cee’d, KIA’s annual European sales have more than doubled, from 225,000 in 2006 to more than 472,000 in 2017. In the medium term, we are targeting annual sales of more than 500,000 vehicles. The c'eed model family will therefore continue to underpin the sustained growth of the KIA brand for years to come, remaining one of our best-selling product lines.”

    The c'eed occupies a unique position in the KIA line-up, perceived by buyers as a dynamic vehicle to drive, while also being one of the most reliable, practical and recognisable. Aided by an expanded product line-up, which grew with the arrival of GT and GT-Line models, KIA’s C-segment hatchback represents the ‘centre’ of the brand.

    Michael Cole adds: “The c'eed has become a recognisable sight on European roads, and buyers understand what it represents for KIA. It is a talisman for reliability and quality in the segment, with customers appreciating its safety and comfort technologies, and the fact that it is designed, developed, engineered and built here in Europe. The new model will reinforce and build upon these strengths.”

    The new five-door hatchback is revealed alongside the new c'eed Sportswagon, the second body style to be added to the c'eed range.

    Mature athleticism – a new design for a new generation of c'eed

    The KIA c'eed has been designed at the brand’s European design centre in Frankfurt, Germany, under the direction of Gregory Guillaume, European Head of Design, and Peter Schreyer, President of Design and Chief Design Officer. Carrying over the sporty, emotional design character of the Stinger, the c'eed conveys a more self-confident new look – one that is both emotive and precise in its execution.

    Lower, wider, and with a longer rear overhang than the car it replaces, the c'eed’s cab-rearward silhouette exhibits a more mature sense of athleticism. Straight lines replace the rounded-off edges of its predecessor, evolving the front of the car with a wider ‘tiger-nose’ grille and lower air intake, and precise, linear shapes framing its ‘face’. The new model features ‘ice cube’ LED daytime running lights as standard, echoing the appearance of earlier GT and GT-Line models. In profile, the sharp, straight lines visually lengthen the bonnet and give the car a more upright stance. A greater sense of maturity and strength is created in its shoulder line, which now runs along a more horizontal plane. The new model adopts the wide C-pillar that has become a hallmark of KIA design in recent years, enhancing its cab-rearward stance. This also gives the upper window-line a sleek new ‘half-moon’ shape. At the rear, new LED daytime running lights give the c'eed greater visibility – and recognition – on the road. Paired with straight lines in the bodywork and a subtle rear boot spoiler, the c'eed presents a more stable overall appearance.

    Inside the cabin, the c'eed is more ergonomic than ever, and with higher-quality materials used throughout. The cabin architecture from the most recent KIA vehicles has been adapted for the c'eed, with the dashboard laid out horizontally for a more sculptural, seamless and slimline appearance. This design also creates greater space and a sense of openness for the front passenger, allowing more space in the footwell and a clearer view ahead.

    The dash is split into an upper area – for the ‘floating’ touchscreen infotainment system – and lower area, housing controls for audio and heating and ventilation. Driver-centric in its layout, the centre console is angled slightly towards the driver’s seat for ease of use on the move. The interior is finished in a higher proportion of sophisticated soft-touch materials throughout, subtly intensifying the refined and upscale ambience of the cabin. Surfaces are finished with metallic or satin chrome trim, and cloth, synthetic leather or genuine leather upholstery. A leather-wrapped steering wheel and gear stick are also available.

    Constructed on KIA’s new ‘K2’ platform, the new c'eed is 20mm wider (1,800mm) and 23mm lower (1,447mm) than the outgoing model. Its wheelbase remains the same at 2,650mm, with the front overhang shortened by 20mm (to 880mm), and rear overhang extended by 20mm (now 780mm).

    The new platform supports the c'eed’s more efficient packaging, with a more spacious cabin than before. The wider body creates greater shoulder room for rear passengers (increased by 34mm to 1,406mm), while a 15mm-lower seating position in the rear creates more knee and leg room for passengers in the second row. Despite the lower roofline, the platform and front seating position create greater front-row headroom than before (987mm). The lower rear bench also ensures similar levels of headroom for rear passengers.  

    While the new c'eed five-door hatchback occupies a similar on-road footprint to its predecessor, it boasts a larger 395-litre boot – increased in size by 15-litres. The boot lip is also substantially lower than before – the lift-over height is reduced by 87mm compared to the outgoing c'eed, making it easier to load heavier items into the boot. A split-level boot floor allows owners to lower or raise the height of the boot floor, to accommodate larger cargo or create a hidden compartment beneath.

    Engineered for European roads

    The new c'eed has been engineered exclusively for European roads, with European buyers in mind. The ride and handling characteristics of the new model have been tuned to elevate the c'eed over its predecessor in terms of dynamism and driver engagement. The new fully-independent suspension system will provide drivers with more agile and immediate handling responses, complemented by revised spring and damper rates and a faster steering rack. The ride has been developed on Europe’s wide variety of road surfaces, remaining comfortable while giving drivers the confidence of tighter body control under cornering and stability at higher speeds.

    The new c'eed range will be powered by a wide choice of powertrains developed to meet diverse buyer needs. Petrol options include an updated version of KIA’s popular 1.0-litre T-GDi (turbocharged gasoline direct injection) engine, producing 120ps, as well as a new 1.4-litre T-GDi power unit. Replacing the earlier 1.6-litre GDI engine, the new ‘Kappa’ 1.4-litre T-GDi engine produces 140ps, four per cent more than its predecessor despite its lower displacement. The engine’s turbocharger ensures a wider torque band than the earlier 1.6-litre engine, making it more responsive in a wider range of driving conditions – while also reducing emissions. Both T-GDi engines are fitted with a gasoline particulate filter to further reduce tailpipe emissions, ensuring the new c'eed goes beyond the requirements of the Euro 6d TEMP standard. A 100ps 1.4-litre MPi (multi-point injection) engine will also be available.

    The new c'eed is also available with KIA’s all-new ‘U3’ diesel engine. Designed to go beyond the stricter limits laid down by the latest Euro 6d TEMP emissions standard, the new ‘U3’ 1.6-litre CRDi (common-rail direct injection) uses Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) active emissions control technology to significantly reduce emissions. The new engine therefore produces less carbon dioxide, particulate matter and NOx compared to earlier KIA diesel engines. Available with a choice of power outputs (115 and 136ps), the new 1.6-litre diesel produces 280 Nm of torque. Fitted with the new engine, the c'eed’s carbon dioxide emissions are expected to fall below 110 g/km on the new Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure (WLTP), when converted to the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC).

    Every engine will be paired with a six-speed manual transmission, while the new 1.4-litre T-GDi and 1.6-litre CRDi engines will also be available with KIA’s seven-speed double-clutch transmission.

    Technological innovation to enhance

    Innovation sits at the heart of the new KIA c'eed, which will become the most high-tech car in its class when sales commence.

    The cabin features a wide range of new technologies to enhance comfort and convenience for occupants. The ‘floating’ infotainment system is available as either a 5.0- or 7.0-inch touchscreen audio system, or 8.0-inch touchscreen navigation system, with navigation and KIA Connected Services powered by TomTom®. The system enables full smartphone integration with Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™. Android Auto™ is designed to work with Android phones running 5.0 (Lollipop) or higher. The c'eed’s Apple CarPlay™ system is compatible with the iPhone 5 and every iPhone released since.

    The c'eed will also feature premium sound system options and standard technologies include full Bluetooth smartphone integration, as well as automatic lights and keyless entry.

    A Drive Mode Select system will enable owners to tailor their driving experience, with Normal and Sport modes. Drivers can use Drive Mode Select to alter the level of effort required to steer the car, while each mode subtly changes the character of the engine. Normal mode maximises the potential for greater fuel efficiency and offers more relaxed steering inputs. Sport mode enhances throttle responses, enables faster acceleration – from a standstill and at speed – and adapts the steering to offer additional weight and more decisive responses to driver inputs.

    A heated front windscreen will be available on some models – with nearly-imperceptible wires to gently heat the glass – to make the new c'eed easier to live with in colder months. The first time this technology has featured in a KIA, it melts away frost, ice and windscreen mist at the push of a button. A wireless smartphone charger, heated and ventilated front seats, and heated rear seats are also available.

    On the outside, the new c'eed is fitted with newly-designed ‘ice cube’ style LED daytime running lights (DRLs) as standard. Previously, these were only featured on GT and GT-Line models, embedded into the front bumper – the ‘ice cube’ DRLs are now integrated into the headlamp units on every model in the c'eed range. Full LED headlamps are also available as an option.

    The c'eed’s optional ECO Pack features an Active Air Flap, which closes and opens depending on engine cooling requirements, enhancing the car’s aerodynamic efficiency for greater fuel economy. The ECO Pack also features an underbody cover and lower suspension, aiding air flow beneath the vehicle, as well as low rolling resistance Michelin tyres.

    In addition to the car’s seven standard airbags, advanced driver assistance technologies further enhance occupant protection, using active safety systems to mitigate the risk of collisions. Standard safety technologies will include High Beam Assist, Driver Attention Warning, Lane Keeping Assist and Forward Collision Warning with Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist.

    A first for any KIA sold in Europe, the new c'eed is available with Lane Following Assist, a ‘Level Two’ autonomous driving technology. Lane Following Assist tracks vehicles in front of the c'eed in traffic, and detects road markings to keep the car in its lane on the motorway. The system controls acceleration, braking and steering depending on the convoy of vehicles in front, using external sensors to maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front. Lane Following Assist operates between 0 and 80 mph.

    Additional available technologies include Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go, Blind Spot Collision Warning, Rear Cross-Traffic Collision Warning, Smart Parking Assist, and pedestrian recognition with haptic steering wheel warnings for the Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist system.

    Every new c'eed is equipped as standard with KIA’s Vehicle Stability Management (VSM), ensuring stability when braking and cornering by controlling the car’s Electronic Stability Control (ESC) if it detects a loss of traction.

    On-sale in Q2 with Seven-Year, 100,000-mile warranty

    The new KIA c'eed will enter production in Q2 2018 at KIA’s Žilina, Slovakia manufacturing facility. On sale across Europe from the end of Q2 2018, UK on-sale date, specification and pricing will be announced in due course. The c'eed will be covered by KIA’s quality promise, with the brand’s industry-leading Seven-Year, 100,000-mile warranty as standard.

  • KIA c'eed 5dr - Technical Specifications

    Body and chassis

    Five-door, five-seater compact C-segment vehicle, with all-steel unitary construction bodyshell. Choice of diesel and gasoline three- and four-cylinder engines, driving the front wheels via a six-speed manual or seven-speed double-clutch transmission.

    Engines

    Petrol

    1.0-litre / 120 ps T-GDI petrol

    Type                       Three-cylinder in-line, turbocharged

    Capacity                   1.0-litres, 998 cc

    Bore and stroke         71.0 x 84.0 mm

    Max power               120 ps (88 kW)

    Max torque               172 Nm (127 lb ft)

    Valves                      12 (four per cylinder)

    Fuel system              Direct injection

    Emissions class          Euro Stage 6d TEMP

     

    1.4-litre / 140 ps T-GDI petrol

    Type                       Four-cylinder in-line, turbocharged

    Capacity                   1.4-litres, 1,396 cc

    Bore and stroke         71.6 x 84.0 mm

    Max power               140 ps (103 kW)

    Max torque               242 Nm (178 lb ft)

    Valves                      16 (four per cylinder)

    Fuel system              Direct injection

    Emissions class          Euro Stage 6d TEMP

     

    1.4-litre / 100 ps MPI petrol

    Type                       Four-cylinder in-line, naturally-aspirated

    Capacity                   1.4-litres, 1,394 cc

    Bore and stroke         72.0 x 84.0 mm

    Max power               100 ps (74 kW)

    Max torque               134 Nm (99 lb ft)

    Valves                      16 (four per cylinder)

    Fuel system              Multi-point injection

    Emissions class          Euro Stage 6d TEMP

     

    Diesel

    1.6-litre / 115 ps U3 CRDi diesel

    Type                       Four-cylinder in-line, turbocharged

    Capacity                   1.6-litres, 1,589 cc

    Max power               115 ps (85 kW)

    Max torque               280 Nm (207 lb ft)

    Valves                      16 (four per cylinder)

    Fuel system              Common-rail direct injection

    Emissions class          Euro Stage 6d TEMP

     

    1.6-litre / 136 ps U3 CRDi diesel

    Type                       Four-cylinder in-line, turbocharged

    Capacity                   1.6-litres, 1,589 cc

    Max power               136 ps (100 kW)

    Max torque               280 Nm (207 lb ft)

    Valves                      16 (four per cylinder)

    Fuel system              Common-rail direct injection

    Emissions class          Euro Stage 6d TEMP

     

    Transmissions

    Six-speed manual transmission

    Seven-speed double-clutch transmission (7DCT)

    Petrol

                                  1.4 MPI          1.0 T-GDI       1.4 T-GDI      

    Manual                     6sp               6sp               6sp

    Automatic                 ---                 ---                 7DCT  

    Diesel

                                  1.6 CRDi

    Manual                     6sp

    Automatic                 7DCT

    Drivetrains

    Front-wheel drive (all models)

     

    Suspension and damping

    Front   Fully-independent by subframe-mounted MacPherson struts, coil springs and gas-filled shock absorbers, with anti-roll stabiliser bar

    Rear    Fully-independent by subframe-mounted double wishbones, coil springs and gas-filled shock absorbers, with anti-roll stabiliser bar

    Steering

    Type   Electric motor-driven rack-and-pinion power steering

    Wheels and tyres

    Standard        Steel 15-inch, 195/65 R15 tyres

    Optional         Alloy 16-inch, 205/55 R16 tyres

                        Alloy 17-inch, 225/45 R17 tyres

    Spare            Tyre mobility kit or optional temporary spare wheel

     

    Dimensions (mm)

    Exterior

    Overall length           4,310             Overall width             1,800

    Overall height           1,447             Wheelbase                2,650

    Front overhang          880               Rear overhang          780

    Interior

                                  1st row           2nd row

    Head room               987               968

    Leg room                 1,073             883

    Shoulder room          1,428             1,406

    Capacities

    Fuel tank                  50 litres

    Luggage (VDA)          395 litres

Easter
  • Friday 29th March
    (Good Friday)
    Sales: 10:00 - 16:00
    Service: Closed
    Parts: Closed
    Commercial: 10:00 - 16:00
  • Sunday 31st March
    (Easter Sunday)
    Sales: Closed
    Service: Closed
    Parts: Closed
    Commercial: Closed
  • Monday 1st April
    (Easter Monday)
    Sales: 10:00 - 16:00
    Service: Closed
    Parts: Closed
    Commercial: 10:00 - 16:00
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