Kia Ceed review
By Motor Match • 30/08/2023
Take a look at the South Korean manufactures' most popular car! The Kia Ceed is a familiar face on the British roads, let's see how it stacks up!
What is it?
It was the Kia Ceed that really helped to move this South Korean firm from being seen as a budget car market to a mainstream one capable of rivalling the likes of Ford and Vauxhall.
It was the Ceed that was Kia’s first true European model, in the fact it was engineered, designed and built in the region, and that showed with the way this model performed when it launched in 2007. But two generations later, can it still impress?
What’s new?
The latest generation of Kia Ceed arrived in 2018, bringing a more modern design and greater technology.
That’s something Kia looked to build on with its latest update on this family hatchback. Changes aren’t huge but it benefits from a reworked version of the firm’s ‘tiger-nose’ grille, as well as more glossy black sections. High-spec models also feature a new touchscreen, as well as more driver assistance features.
What’s under the bonnet?
Kia has cut back on the engine choice available on the Ceed, with just a single powertrain now available – a 158bhp 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine. It primarily uses a six-speed manual gearbox, though a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic can be had on the top-spec GT Line S model.
Performance is reasonable, though, with 0-60mph being dispatched in 8.4 seconds, and it’s capable of a 130mph top speed. In terms of fuel economy, it does well too, with Kia claiming 51.4mpg, and CO2 emissions of 125g/km – good figures for a non-hybrid petrol engine.
What’s it like to drive?
The Kia Ceed is an especially dependable car, but not an exciting one, and that’s reflected in the way it drives. In day-to-day use, the ride is excellent, especially on lower grades that come with smaller alloy wheels, while this engine is more than brisk enough for a car of this type. You could previously get a smaller 1.0-litre petrol engine, though this always felt a bit flat.
It handles neatly, even if you press on, but does little to inspire. The only real thing we’d change is Kia having more insulation from the road, as it can be quite loud at speed.
How does it look?
Again, the Ceed won’t be bought for its bold style, as this is a car that will quite happily blend into the background, especially in the case of the entry-level model. You can, however, have something a little bolder with the GT Line, which gets larger alloy wheels and different bumpers to give it a sportier appearance.
This latest update has helped smarten up the Ceed’s design, though, with more gloss black modernising the overall appearance.
What’s it like inside?
The fuss-free feel of this Kia carries on to the cabin as well, though it must be said the ergonomics and general ease of use are hard to knock. There are no fussy displays or gimmicks, but a clear touchscreen and dial that are simple to navigate. The larger touchscreen on higher-spec versions feels far more modern, however.
It offers a decent amount of space by family hatchback standards, too. There’s a 395-litre boot and plenty of storage areas, though rivals like the Seat Leon offer more space in the rear seats.
What’s the spec like?
There are four different versions of the Kia Ceed available, with the entry-level ‘2’ featuring 16-inch alloy wheels, air conditioning and an eight-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Move up to the GT-Line and you get far more in the way of stylish features, along with LED headlights and heated front seats.
The mid-range ‘3’ version gains keyless entry, along with the large 10.25-inch touchscreen system. At the top of the range, the GT-Line S features large 18-inch alloy wheels, a panoramic sunroof, leather and suede upholstery, and additional driver assistance features.
All models also come with Kia’s class-leading seven-year warranty.
Verdict
The Kia Ceed isn’t a car that generates much excitement, but what it does is get on with the job with minimal fuss. There’s a lot to be said for a sensible car that will be very easy to daily, and if that’s what you’re looking for, this Kia more than delivers.
With generous equipment, a comfortable driving experience and Kia’s excellent warranty, it’s a family hatchback that’s certainly worth considering.
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