Kia XCeed Review 2024
Kia XCeed At A Glance
Very good looking 'crossover' based on the Kia Ceed. Nicely furnished inside. Well equipped. Sensible value for money.
Much better on 16-inch wheels with 205/60 R16 tyres than on 18-inch wheels with 234/45 R18s.
On average it achieves 102% of the official MPG figure
Kia has developed a knack for spotting gaps and filling them with its Ceed-based range. The XCeed is a prime example of this, offering all of the usual hatch practicality with a generous dash of SUV looks and attitude. This doesn't come at the expense of running costs, however, and the XCeed also has the usual Kia attribute of a long warranty and equally long list of standard kit. Read on for our full review of the Kia XCeed.
Kia's new crossover priced from £23,770 rivals the Volkswagen T-Roc and Ford Focus Active. It arrived in showrooms at the end of September 2019 and was facelifted in mid-2022.
Based on the Ceed hatchback, the Kia XCeed is positioned between the Stonic and Sportage in size. It's a more premium offering, however, which explains why it's £1200 more than the equivalent hatch.
The engine line-up is very simple, with a 160PS 1.5-litre turbo petrol in most versions of the Kia XCeed. Or, you can have the Plug-In Hybrid model with a 1.6-litre petrol motor and combined power of 140PS thanks to an electric motor that also provides an EV driving range of up to 30 miles. Kia also claims a combined fuel economy for the XCeed hybrid of 201.7mpg, though you'd have to make full use of every plug-in opportunity to realise this in normal driving conditions.
Reviews for Kia XCeed's top 3 rivals
Kia XCeed handling and engines
- Engines range from 1.0 T-GDI to 1.6 CRDi
- Readers report Real MPG to be between 31–65 mpg
Kia XCeed 2024: Handling and ride quality
In its bid to make the XCeed more SUV-alike, Kia has softened the suspension compared to the Ceed hatch. This has good and bad consequences. The good is the ride is better able to cope with lumps and bumps as the car encounters them, so it's a little more compliant on all surfaces.
The downside for the XCeed is it leans noticeably more than a Ceed in corners. It's not enough to make you reach for the sea sickness pills, but there's a definite Force 7 swell in the way the XCeed deals with corners. However, there's decent grip and it never feels anything other than perfectly competent, and the steering is in much the same vein by being acceptable and unremarkable in its actions.
In the PHEV hybrid model, the suspension is firmed up again to cope with the added weight of the battery. It doesn't do anything to improve the handling of the XCeed and it also means this petrol-electric model feels more prone to crashing into ruts and ridges rather than trying to negotiate its way over them.
Kia XCeed 2024: Engines
There's a straight choice of engines with the Kia XCeed. If you want the PHEV plug-in hybrid model, you get a 1.6 litre petrol motor which, when combined with its EV motor, delivers a total of 140PS. It drives through a six-speed automatic gearbox, rather than the seven-speed auto used in the petrol-only XCeed.
Performance for the hybrid is best described as adequate. It takes 10.6 seconds to go from a standing start to 60mph, which is okay but it doesn't feel especially keen to build speed beyond city limits. More telling is the 30-mile battery-only range that makes it ideal for emissions-free town driving.
Opt for the 160PS 1.5 litre turbo petrol engine in the XCeed and it offer brisker acceleration, taking 8.7 seconds to go from 0-60mph. Of, if you have this engine with the seven-speed auto, that dash takes 8.9 seconds.
In the usual cut and thrust of daily driving, the 1.5 litre engine is smooth, quiet, and flexible.
Kia XCeed 2024: Safety
When the Kia Ceed, which the XCeed shares almost all of its components with, Euro NCAP had to fit the Advanced Driving Assist Pack to achieve a full five-star score. Otherwise, the Ceed rated a four-star outcome. The good news is the XCeed comes with all of the important kit to warrant the higher five-star ranking.
With every Xceed, you get automatic emergency braking, lane keep assist tech that will warn and guide you back into the correct carriageway, and there's a driver attention alert, too. Six airbags are included in all, as well, plus two Isofix child seat mounts for the outer back seats.
However, only the GT-Line S modle comes with a blind spot alert system and Intelligent Speed Limit Warning.
Kia XCeed 2024: Towing
For the Kia XCeed with the 160PS 1.5 litre turbo petrol engine, you have an unbraked trailer maximum of 600kg. This is the same for the PHEV version, but the plug-in hybrid model has a maximum braked trailer limit of 1300kg compared to 1410kg for the petrol-only versions. It's a slim difference but could be the margin between towing a light caravan or leaving it at home.
| Engine | MPG | 0-62 | CO2 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.0 T-GDI | 50–52 mpg | 10.9–11.1 s | 124 g/km |
| 1.4 T-GDI | 46–48 mpg | - | 134–142 g/km |
| 1.4 T-GDI Automatic | 48 mpg | - | 134 g/km |
| 1.5 T-GDI | - | 8.7 s | 137–143 g/km |
| 1.5 T-GDi 138 | - | - | 137–141 g/km |
| 1.5 T-GDi 138 DCT | - | - | 142 g/km |
| 1.5 T-GDI Automatic | - | 8.9 s | 141–142 g/km |
| 1.6 CRDi | 64–69 mpg | 10.2 s | 109–133 g/km |
| 1.6 GDI PHEV | - | 10.6 s | 32 g/km |
Real MPG average for the Kia XCeed
Real MPG was created following thousands of readers telling us that their cars could not match the official figures.
Real MPG gives real world data from drivers like you to show how much fuel a vehicle really uses.
Average performance
102%
Real MPG
31–65 mpg
MPGs submitted
66
Kia XCeed interior
- Boot space is 291–1378 litres
- Euro NCAP rating of five stars
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Length | 4395 mm |
| Width | 1826–2055 mm |
| Height | 1495 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2650 mm |
Kia XCeed 2024: Practicality
One of the big draws of SUV type of cars is their cabin space. In the front, the Kia XCeed does a mighty fine job by providing ample room for heads, legs, shoulders, and elbows. Even the tallest of drivers should find it easy to get comfy in here, helped by driver's seat height adjustment in all models, and this is powered in the GT-Line S version. There's also powered lumbar adjustment in all but the 2 trim, which is also the case with the heated steering wheel and front seats.
Good all-round vision is another tick for the XCeed, and Kia fits rear parking sensors to every XCeed save the basic 2 trim, which seems a little mean to us. The GT-Line S is th eonly model to have front parking sensors fitted.
Where the XCeed falls a little short compared to the likes of the Volkswagen T-Roc, and other SUVs such as the Ford Puma or Hyundai Tuscon, is the amount of rear space on offer for adults. While kids will be find in the XCeed, and it comes with Isofix mountings on both outer rear seats, it doesn't accommodate adults quite so easily. Anyone of average height or above is likely to find their knees pressing into the back of the front seat, which isn't ideal for anyone.
Kia redeems matters to come degree with a decent boot in the XCeed. It offers up 426 litres of cargo carrying volume in normal use and up to 1378 litres with the 60-40 split and tip rear seats folded down. This is for the 1.5 litre petrol version of the XCeed, but if you choose the Plug-In Hybrid model you lose a little boot capacity due to the battery. As a result, the hybrid can hold 291 litres or up 1243 litres with the seats pushed down.
Kia XCeed 2024: Quality and finish
Wherever you your hands come into contact with the Kia XCeed, it feels solidly built and made from good materials. It's not quite an Audi-beater in this respect, but you certainly feel you're getting fine value for money with the way this car is put together.
This impression is furthered the more time you spend in the XCeed. It's free from rattles or creaks, and all of the buttons, switches and dials work with a precision and fluid feel that you only really notice when stepping into a number of other cars that cost the same yet feel decidedly more downmarket.
Kia XCeed 2024: Infotainment
The infotainment is easy to use but, refreshingly, Kia hasn't tried to cram everything into the digital display. There are still plenty of big, easy to understand buttons on the dash for everything from skipping audio tracks to adjusting the temperature of the climate control. It might not look as simplistic as a Peugeot 308, for example, but there's a lot to be said for not being distracted during driving.
In 2 trim, the XCeed has an 8-inch colour touchscreen for its infotainment, which feels just fine. It's easy to work and ready on the move, and works with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
However, you'll probably prefer the larger 10.25-inch touchscreen fitted to all other XCeed models. It comes with sat-nav included, as well as seven years' worth of Kia Connect Services to give access to traffic update.
Ini the GT-Line S trim, you also have a 12.3-inch digital dash display in place of the usual instruments in the other models, which make do with a 4.2-inch display for onboard information.
Kia XCeed value for money
Kia XCeed 2024: Prices
Kia might be a company fast rising through the ranks on quality and desirability, but that doesn’t mean it’s lost its focus on cracking value. The XCeed 2 with the 160PS 1.5-litre turbo petrol engine gets the ball rolling for the range at £23,770. This compares very favourably to many of the Kia’s main rivals, such as the Ford Focus Active.
Next in the line-up is the GT-Line trim, which attracts a £2000 premium to cost from £25,770. The 3 trim weighs in at £26,270, while the GT-Line S takes a bigger step up at £30,770, which is for the six-speed manual version. If you want the seven-speed automatic transmission, you’ll need to add a further £1100 to the final tally.
Separate from the 1.5-litre petrol model sits the XCeed PHEV Plug-In Hybrid model, which comes in 3 trim. It has an automatic gearbox as standard and this single version costs from £33,495 to be the most expensive XCeed option.
Kia XCeed 2024: Running Costs
The Kia XCeed PHEV plug-in hybrid model will have considerable appeal to company car drivers, as well as private buyers. It comes with carbon dioxide emissions rated at 32g/km, so there is no road tax to pay. It can cover up to 30 miles on battery power alone in EV mode, which is ideal for town driving. It also falls into Group 15 for insurance, so it’s not expensive to get covered.
That’s lower than the rest of the petrol-only XCeed range, which sit in Groups 17 or 18 depending on trim for insurance purposes. You’ll also pay more with these models for road tax, which will have you shelling out £255 in the first year and £180 in subsequent 12-month increments.
When it comes to fuel economy, the 1.5-litre petrol XCeed models all deliver an official combined figure close to 45mpg. The PHEV model, however, goes some way beyond that with a claimed 201.7 mpg.
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The starting point for the Kia XCeed range is the 2 trim. It comes with 16-inch alloy wheels, cruise control with speed limiter, and reversing camera. Air conditioning keeps the cabin cool, and there are electric windows all-round.
Leather covers the steering wheel and gear knob in the 2, and you have driver’s manual seat height adjustment. In the middle of the dash sits an 8-inch colour touchscreen for the infotainment system, which works with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. There are seven speakers for the DAB stereo that also has Bluetooth with voice recognition and music streaming.
Next up is the GT-Line model that has 18-inch alloy wheels, rear privacy glass, remote central locking, and rain-sensing wipers. The GT-Line benefits from synthetic leather upholstery and a panoramic glass roof.
With this trim, you also enjoy heated front seats and steering wheel, an electronic parking brake in place of the 2’s traditional handbrake lever, and you get the larger 10.25-inch infotainment screen. This works with Kia Connect so you can monitor the car from a distance.
Then comes the 3 trim, which builds on the 2 with a black satin and chrome radiator grille, Drive Mode select for normal and sport settings, and smart cruise control with stop and go function. A smart key gives keyless ignition, and the 3 also has the larger infotainment screen and heated steering wheel and seats of the GT-Line.
Then there’s the all-singing GT-Line S that combines all the elements of the lower trims, so you get 18-inch alloys and panoramic glass roof. It also comes with a 12.3-inch digital main instrument display, black leather and suede upholstery, and wireless mobile phone charger. The 10.25inch infotainment touchscreen is aided by an eight speaker JBL premium sound system. And the GT-Line S gains added safety tech with Blind Spot Collision Warning and an Intelligent Speed Limit Warning.
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Length | 4395 mm |
| Width | 1826–2055 mm |
| Height | 1495 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2650 mm |
| Miscellaneous | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight | 1332–1609 kg |
| Boot Space | 291–1378 L |
| Warranty | 3 years / Unlimited miles |
| Servicing | 10000–20000 miles |
| Costs | |
|---|---|
| List Price | £22,710–£31,210 |
| Insurance Groups | - |
| Road Tax Bands | A–F |
| Official MPG | 45.6–68.9 mpg |
| Euro NCAP Safety Ratings | |
|---|---|
| Adult | - |
| Child | - |
| Pedestrian | - |
| Overall | 5 |
Currently on sale
| Hatchback | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| 2 T-GDi 138 Start/Stop 5dr | - | - | - |
| 2 T-GDi 158 Start/Stop 5dr | £22,710 | - | - |
| 3 GDi 104 DCT Auto 8.9kWh (139) Start/Stop 5dr | - | - | - |
| 3 T-GDi 138 DCT Auto Start/Stop 5dr | - | - | - |
| 3 T-GDi 138 Start/Stop 5dr | - | - | - |
| 3 T-GDi 158 DCT Auto Start/Stop 5dr | - | - | - |
| 3 T-GDi 158 Start/Stop 5dr | £25,610 | - | - |
| GT Line S T-GDi 138 DCT Auto Start/Stop 5dr | - | - | - |
| GT Line S T-GDi 158 DCT Auto Start/Stop 5dr | £31,210 | - | - |
| GT Line S T-GDi 158 Start/Stop 5dr | £29,710 | - | - |
| GT Line T-GDi 138 DCT Auto Start/Stop 5dr | - | - | - |
| GT Line T-GDi 138 Start/Stop 5dr | - | - | - |
| GT Line T-GDi 158 Start/Stop 5dr | £25,060 | - | - |
On sale until November 2022
| Hatchback | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| 1.0 T-GDi 118bhp 2 ISG 5dr | - | 52.3 mpg | 10.9 s |
| 3 GDi 104 DCT Auto 8.9kWh (139) Start/Stop 5dr | £30,695 | - | 10.6 s |
| 3 T-GDi 158 DCT Auto Start/Stop 5dr | - | - | 8.9 s |
| 3 T-GDi 158 Start/Stop 5dr | - | - | 8.7 s |
| 4 GDi 104 DCT Auto 8.9kWh (139) Start/Stop 5dr | £35,105 | - | 10.6 s |
| 4 T-GDi 158 DCT Auto Start/Stop 5dr | - | - | 8.9 s |
| 4 T-GDi 158 Start/Stop 5dr | - | - | 8.7 s |
| Connect T-GDi 118 Start/Stop 5dr | - | - | 11.1 s |
On sale until September 2022
| Hatchback | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| 1.0 T-GDi 118bhp 3 ISG 5dr | - | 50.4 mpg | 10.9 s |
| 3 CRDi 136 48v MHEV Start/Stop 5dr | £26,065 | - | 10.2 s |
| 4 T-GDi 118 Start/Stop 5dr | - | - | 11.1 s |
| Edition T-GDi 118 Start/Stop 5dr | - | - | 11.1 s |
On sale until November 2021
| Hatchback | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| First Edition GDi 104 DCT Auto 8.9kWh (139) Start/Stop 5dr | £34,695 | - | 10.6 s |
On sale until April 2021
| Hatchback | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| 1.4 T-GDi 138 First Edition ISG 5dr | - | 45.6 mpg | - |
| 1.4 T-GDi 138bhp 3 DCT ISG 5dr Auto | - | 47.9 mpg | - |
| 1.4 T-GDi 138bhp 3 ISG 5dr | - | 45.6 mpg | - |
| 1.4 T-GDi First Edition DCT ISG 5dr Auto | - | 47.9 mpg | - |
| 1.6 CRDi 114bhp 2 ISG 5dr | - | 68.9 mpg | - |
| 1.6 CRDi 134bhp 3 ISG 5dr | - | 64.2 mpg | - |
Model History
- June 2019: Kia XCeed revealed
- July 2019: Kia XCeed priced from £20,795
- September 2019: Kia XCeed Plug-in Hybrid announced
- January 2020: Kia XCeed PHEV priced from £30,695
- April 2020: Kia XCeed Edition announced
- July 2021: Kia XCeed range updated
- August 2022: Updated Kia XCeed priced from £22,995
June 2019
Kia XCeed revealed
Kia has launched its new XCeed as an 'urban crossover utility vehicle' set to take on the Ford Focus Active when it goes on sale later this year - with prices expected to start at around £21,000.
The only body panels carried over from the five-door Ceed are the front doors, suggesting the XCeed is a bit more than a jacked-up hatch in the same vein as the Focus Active. The Korean manufacturer claims it offers comparable interior space to an SUV, along with a more sporty drive than conventional crossovers.
The XCeed sits up to 42mm higher than the standard Ceed. It's also slightly longer than the hatchback and shorter than a Sportage, while its boot is bigger than the Ceed's (426 litres compared to 395 litres). An adjustable two-step boot floor along with a hidden underfloor storage compartment sounds promising for buyers seeking practicality.
Inside, the XCeed's cabin looks largely the same as the standard Ceed. A yellow colour pack can be selected in a bid to appeal to a younger audience. This features vibrant yellow highlights throughout the cabin, including trim around the air vents and stitching on the seats and doors.
There's also an optional 10.25-inch navigation system perched on the dash, along with the brand's first 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster in place of conventional dials.
Engineers have been tasked with making the XCeed handle better than a typical family SUV. Its fully-independent suspension is softer than that used in the regular hatchback, yet Kia claims it doesn't lean any more in bends.
There's the same engine line-up as the Ceed, including a 1.0-litre three-cylinder and 1.4-litre four-cylinder petrols. The range is topped by the 1.6-litre turbo used in the Ceed GT, while a 1.6-litre diesel is available with 115 or 136PS.
Electrified engines, including 48V mild hybrid and plug-in hybrid options, will be offered in the Kia XCeed from early 2020.
Production of the Kia XCeed will start at the firm's Slovakia plant in August, with UK deliveries expected late in the year. Prices will be confirmed at a later date, expected to start at around £21,000. The XCeed will be sold with the company's seven-year, 100,000-mile warranty.
July 2019
Kia XCeed priced from £20,795
Following the reveal of the all-new Kia XCeed last month, Kia is today releasing pricing and specifications of the fourth member of the Ceed range. Order books are now open for the Kia XCeed, with the first cars set to arrive in UK showrooms in September 2019.
The all-new Kia XCeed adds a Compact Utility Vehicle to the Ceed range, a body style that is increasing in popularity, and one that bridges the gap between the traditional hatchback and SUV body styles. It has a higher ground clearance, is 85mm longer and 43mm taller than the Ceed hatchback, however, with its sloping roofline it sits lower than an SUV, giving the Kia XCeed a dynamic and more distinctive look.
The exterior of the Kia XCeed shares only the front door panels with the Ceed hatchback. Face-on, there is a distinct difference between the two models, helped by the longer, taller, sportier bonnet, new dual blade front grille, satin chrome garnish, revised bumper and new LED headlamps. Changes at the rear of the car include a new dynamic bumper, diffuser and new LED lights. The rear proportions give the Kia XCeed a muscular stance on the road. The Kia XCeed also benefits from SUV styling in the form of black wheel arch trims along with unique 16- or 18-inch alloy wheels.
At the heart of the Kia XCeed’s dashboard is Kia’s new 10.25-inch TFT LCD widescreen system, featuring the new UVO CONNECT telematics system. It is featured as standard on ‘3’ and ‘First Edition’ grades. New functions include a split screen mode, home screen customisation, Bluetooth® multi-connection and user profiles. UVO CONNECT puts a raft of information at owners’ fingertips, including live traffic, weather, and parking availability. The system can also be accessed via a UVO smartphone app, providing remote access to a range of vehicle functions, including at-a-glance overview of key elements of the car, including doors and locks. The last known location of the vehicle can be viewed, and a monthly summary of the car’s usage. Diagnosis alerts are shared with the smartphone user, keeping them informed of the current status of the car, with notifications automatically sent whenever an event is detected in the car.
The Kia XCeed will be available with Kia’s trademark, easy to understand line-up of ‘2’, ‘3’ and flagship ‘First Edition’ models, with both petrol and diesel engines on offer. A seven-speed DCT automatic transmission is available with the 1.4 T-GDi 138bhp engine.
Grade ‘2’ models are comprehensively kitted out with 16-inch alloy wheels, silver roof rails, a rear spoiler, a gloss black mesh front grille with satin chrome surround, satin chrome beltline and LED bi-functional headlights, front projection fog lamps, LED daytime running lights and LED rear lights and rear fog lamps. The eight-inch touchscreen features Android AutoTM and Apple CarPlayTM compatibility, together with a reversing camera system. Other equipment includes a leather trimmed steering wheel and gearshift, black premium cloth upholstery, automatic lighting control, electric front and rear windows with front auto up and down functionality, keyless entry, manual air conditioning and cruise control. Lane Keeping Assist (LKA) and Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA) are both included, with pedestrian detection functionality available as part of the optional Advanced Driving Assistance Pack.
Move up to level ‘3’ and there’s 18-inch alloy wheels, privacy glass, electric and heated, wide, folding door mirrors with side repeater and a window defogger. Step inside and there’s the new 10.25-inch navigation system with telematics, black cloth and part faux leather seat upholstery, heated front seats and steering wheel, dual-zone climate control, an electric park brake and rear auto up and down functionality for the electric windows, as well as a smart key and button start. The centre console features a sliding storage box for extra versatility and pedestrian detection is added to the Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA) system on manual models and is an optional extra for DCT versions.
The top-of-the-range ‘First Edition’ models are fitted with a panoramic sunroof, a dark chrome mesh radiator grille with satin chrome frame and black gloss mirror caps. On the safety front there’s Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA) with pedestrian detection, Smart Cruise Control on DCT versions, Blind Spot Collision Warning (BCW), Intelligent Speed Limit warning and a high line Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) with tyre pressure display. Cloth and part faux leather seat upholstery with exclusive yellow detailing makes a cutting dash, with a power operated driver’s seat with memory and lumbar support. The instruments are upgraded to a 12.3-inch TFT supervision cluster display, there’s a smart power tailgate, JBL® premium sound system, wireless phone charger, aluminium pedals and 40:20:40 split folding rear seats.
The ‘2’ and ‘3’ grade models are available with a choice of six exterior colours and the ‘First Edition’ is finished in a choice of two hues, matched to a contrasting interior. ‘First Edition’ versions benefit from Premium paint as standard (normally charged at £570), including the brand new and exclusive Quantum Yellow.
|
‘2' 1.0 T-GDi 118bhp 6-speed manual ISG |
£20,795 |
|
‘2’ 1.6 CRDi 114bhp 6-speed manual ISG |
£22,045 |
|
‘3’ 1.0 T-GDi 118bhp 6-speed manual ISG |
£23,295 |
|
‘3’ 1.4 T-GDi 138bhp 6-speed manual ISG |
£24,095 |
|
‘3’ 1.4 T-GDi 138bhp 7-speed auto DCT ISG |
£25,195 |
|
‘3’ 1.6 CRDi 134bhp 6-speed manual ISG |
£25,345 |
|
‘First Edition’ 1.4 T-GDi 138bhp 6-speed manual ISG |
£28,095 |
|
‘First Edition’ 1.4 T-GDi 138bhp 7-speed auto DCT ISG |
£29,195 |
September 2019
Kia XCeed Plug-in Hybrid announced
Combines an 8.9 kWh lithium-polymer battery pack, a 44.5 kW electric motor, and an efficient 1.6-litre ‘Kappa’ four-cylinder petrol engine. The powertrain’s total power and torque output is 141PS and 265Nm, enabling the XCeed to accelerate to 62mph in 11.0 seconds.
The powertrain is paired with a six-speed double-clutch transmission (6DCT), allowing drivers to shift gear for themselves, ensuring a more enjoyable drive than other hybrid vehicles equipped with electronic continuously-variable transmissions (e-CVT), says Kia.
Standard regenerative braking technology allows the new Plug-in Hybrid models to harvest kinetic energy and recharge their battery packs while coasting or braking, further enhanging the overall efficiency of the powertrain.
Kia is targeting an all-electric range of around 37 miles, enabling drivers to complete the majority of daily drives and short commutes on electric power alone. CO 2 emissions for the new Plug-in Hybrid model are pending homologation and will be revealed prior to start-of-sales.
The XCeed is equipped with Kia’s new Virtual Engine Sound System, an audible warning system which activates in electric-only mode at low speeds or when reversing. The system generates virtual sound levels of up to 59 dBA to safely notify pedestrians of the car’s presence.
A new closed ‘tiger-nose’ grille at the front of the car aids aerodynamic efficiency. The charging port is integrated into the left front wing of the car. Equipped as standard with bespoke 16-inch aluminium alloy wheels, optional 18-inch alloys are also available.
The XCeed Plug-in Hybrid is equipped with a charging indicator, a visual aid to tell owners that their car is charging or when the battery is fully-charged. Its location on top of the dashboard means drivers can instantly ascertain the car’s state of charge at a glance from outside the car (for instance, when it is parked on their driveway at home and the owner hasn’t left the house yet).
It's offered with Kia’s 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment as standard, or an optional 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment and navigation system with Kia’s UVO Connect telematics. Unique to the new Plug-in Hybrid variant, the systems incorporate new functionality to help owners locate available charging points in their vicinity, or en route to their navigation destination. The screens can also show relevant information relating to the powertrain, displaying remaining charge levels in the battery and energy usage graphics. Furthermore, owners can use the touchscreen system to schedule when their vehicle should charge when plugged in at home, enabling owners to take advantage of cheaper off-peak energy tariffs. Both infotainment systems offer Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard, while the optional 10.25-inch touchscreen navigation system features Bluetooth multi-connection, enabling occupants to connect two mobile devices at once.
The instrument cluster also features unique visuals for the Plug-in Hybrid powertrain, displaying remaining charge levels, anticipated electric-only range and the flow of energy between the battery pack, engine and electric motor. Available as an option, Kia’s new fully-digital 12.3-inch ‘Supervision’ instrument cluster is designed to deliver information as clearly as possible with a range of unique graphics displays. The high-resolution 1920x720-pixel Supervision display replaces conventional speedometer and tachometer dials currently found in the brand’s passenger cars with a single, seamless display.
The ‘Driver Only’ heating, ventilation and air-conditioning system – activated with a new button on the dashboard – instantly deactivates airflow to all cabin vents except those nearest the driver. This is designed to reduce the draw on battery energy from the ventilation system, while still keeping the driver at their preferred temperature. Unlike conventional ventilation systems, Kia’s ‘Driver Only’ system doesn’t simply restrict airflow to certain vents, rerouting it elsewhere; instead, it switches off the fans themselves, reducing energy use at source.
The Ceed model line-up was engineered from the start to accommodate new hybrid powertrains. This means that the adoption of a Plug-in Hybrid powertrain in the Kia XCeed has had a minimal impact on packaging, with the structure adapted from the start to contain the powertrain’s battery pack.#
The 8.9 kWh battery pack is located alongside the 37-litre fuel tank beneath the rear bench, unlike many other plug-in hybrid vehicles, in which the battery pack takes up valuable cargo space. As a Plug-in Hybrid, the XCeed provides 291 litres of luggage space, growing to 1,243 litres with the rear folded down. There is a dedicated space beneath the boot floor to store the charging cable when not in use.
An optional Towing Pack is available for towing braked loads – a rarity among cars in the hybrid class.
January 2020
Kia XCeed PHEV priced from £30,695
Available in 3 or First Edition trim, the plug-in hybrid XCeed is now on sale from £30,695.
The ‘3’ grade features 16-inch alloy wheels and black cloth seat trim with black faux leather bolsters and powered lumbar support for the front seats. The ‘First Edition’ grade comes with 18-inch alloy wheels and Black Leather Seat Upholstery with Faux Leather Door Centre Trim. All versions feature privacy glass and rain sensing front windscreen wipers.
At the heart of the dashboard is Kia’s new 10.25-inch TFT LCD widescreen system, including a satellite navigation system, European mapping and a Traffic Messaging Channel. Also included is DAB radio with MP3 compatibility and Kia’s new UVO CONNECT telematics system. UVO CONNECT puts a raft of information at owners’ fingertips, including live traffic, weather, and parking availability. The infotainment system allows smartphone users access to both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay and it is Bluetooth multi connection-enabled, allowing occupants to connect two mobile devices at once for hands-free phone calls and music streaming.
Other standard equipment includes a reversing camera with dynamic guidelines, dual-zone automatic air conditioning, electrically folding door mirrors with LED indicators, an auto-dimming rear view mirror and rear parking sensors. Heated front seats and steering wheel are also included, along with an electric parking brake (EPB), front passenger seat height adjuster and a smart entry system with engine start/stop button.
Safety has been given a high priority with six airbags (front, side and curtain with front passenger cut-off switch), Lane Keeping Assist (LKA), High Beam Assist (HBA), Driver Attention Warning (DAW), Hill Start Assist Control (HAC), Speed Limit Information Function (SLIF) and Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist – City and Pedestrian (FCA) all included as standard.
The ‘First Edition’ grade sits at the top-of-the Kia XCeed Plug-in Hybrid range and features a Smart Park Assist System (SPAS) that integrates front and rear parking sensors with the ability to automatically park in parallel or perpendicular spaces. There are black leather seat upholstery, heated outer rear seats and a driver’s seat with memory function, meanwhile, the rear seats fold down, with a 40:20:40 split. An enlarged 12.3-inch TFT supervision cluster display comes fitted to the ‘First Edition’ grade, along with a panoramic sunroof with tilting/sliding function and automatic electric roller blind. Aluminium pedals, smart powered tailgate, a personal LED light and wireless mobile phone charger are all included, too. Extra safety systems include a Blind Spot Collision Warning (BCW), Intelligent Speed Limit Information Function (ISLIF) and Lane Following Assist (LFA).
In its EV mode, the Kia XCeed Plug-in Hybrid is capable of travelling up to 36 miles and takes 2 hours and 15 minutes to recharge the battery pack to 100 per cent using a 3.3kW AC charger.
The Kia XCeed ‘3’ and ‘First Edition’ Plug-in Hybrid models are available to order now from showrooms, with the first examples set to arrive here in the UK during April 2020.
April 2020
Kia XCeed Edition announced
Sold with 1.0-litre T-GDi petrol engine and six-speed manual gearbox, the XCeed Edition is available in three new metallic paint colours: Blue Flame, Quantum Yellow and Lunar Silver.
Based on the 2 trim level, standard equipment includes 18-inch alloy wheels, rear privacy glass, LED headlights, cruise control, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.
Prices start from £20,995.
July 2021
Kia XCeed range updated
Kia has announced a number of changes to the XCeed model line-up, including the addition of the XCeed ‘Connect’, replacing the ‘Edition’ model. Benefitting from all the same features as the outgoing ‘Edition’, the ‘Connect’ model upgrades to a 4.2” colour supervision cluster, 10.25” navigation with UVO Connect and an expanded exterior colour offering. XCeed ‘Connect’ will also be available in ‘Fusion Orange’, exclusive to this version and new to the XCeed range.
The model will sit between the ‘2’ and ‘3’ grade XCeed, and will cost £21,775 – with a 1.0-litre T-GDi powertrain, and a six-speed manual transmission.
August 2022
Updated Kia XCeed priced from £22,995
Kia has revealed UK pricing and specifications for the new XCeed compact crossover as order books open for the upgraded model.
The new XCeed has received a range of mid-lifecycle updates three years after it first went on-sale. In that time, it has become the best-selling variant in the four-strong Ceed model family, and now accounts for 51 per cent of all Ceed sales in the UK. It has also made up 10 per cent of total Kia UK sales so far this year, with 5,652 units registered in the UK in the first half of the year.
UK customer deliveries for the new Kia XCeed commence from the end of Q3 2022, with prices starting from £22,995 for petrol models and £32,595 for the low-emissions PHEV model.
The new Kia XCeed has received a series of product enhancements for 2023, including a bold new exterior design, an enhanced interior, and the addition of a new ‘GT-Line S’ grade to the line-up. These changes make the XCeed an even more enticing proposition in the popular C-crossover segment.
The UK line-up incorporates a new ‘GT-Line S’ grade for the first time, designed to evoke a sense of sportiness, similar to other ‘GT-Line’ models in the existing Kia and Ceed line-ups. The new ‘GT-Line S’ grade sits at the top of the new XCeed range, replacing the earlier ‘4’ grade. With a generous level of standard equipment along with new GT-Line body kit, unique 18-inch alloy wheels for exterior styling, and GT-Line seats and steering wheel. The new XCeed also incorporates Kia’s latest driver assist, connectivity and infotainment systems for maximum everyday usability, enjoyment and occupant safety.
In the UK, the new XCeed offers the same choice of two powertrains as found on the pre-facelift model, including a low-emissions PHEV model.
The anticipated best-seller in the line-up is the 1.5-litre T-GDi (turbocharged gasoline direct injection) engine, paired with a six-speed manual and producing 158 bhp and 253 Nm torque.
The engine features continuously variable valve duration technology, enabling it to shift continuously between combustion cycles to maximise performance and efficiency in different driving conditions.
The new XCeed PHEV carries over the same plug-in hybrid system, based on a 1.6-litre GDi (gasoline direct injection), paired with a 44.5 kW electric motor and 8.9 kWh lithium-ion polymer battery pack. It applies its combined 139 bhp and 265 Nm torque to the road via a smooth-shifting six-speed double-clutch transmission (DCT). The new XCeed PHEV is capable of travelling up to 30 miles on electric power.
WLTP fuel efficiency and emissions data for all variants, as well as (Benefit-in-Kind) BIK information for the business-friendly PHEV model, will be revealed closer to the car’s on-sale date.
‘2’, ‘3’ and ‘GT-Line S’ – a revised UK grade structure
The new XCeed offers a similar grade structure to earlier versions of the XCeed, but with the outgoing ‘4’ model replaced with the new ‘GT-Line S’ version.
Versions with the 1.5-litre T-GDi engine are available in ‘2’, ‘3’ and ‘GT-Line S’ grades. The ‘2’ grade, priced from £22,995, offers a generous specification as standard. This includes:
16-inch alloy wheels
LED bi-function headlights
8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and 4.2-inch Supervision driver instrument cluster
Seven-speaker audio system
All-round electric windows with front auto up-and-down function
Reversing camera system
USB-C and USB-A sockets in the front cabin, and a USB-C socket in the rear
Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA) with city, pedestrian and cyclist recognition
Intelligent Stop & Go (ISG)
Cruise control and speed limiter
Leather-trimmed steering wheel and faux leather-trimmed gearshift
Black cloth upholstery
60:40 split-folding rear seats
The ‘3’ grade, from £25,495, adds the following equipment over ‘2’ grade:
18-inch alloy wheels
10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment and navigation system
Privacy glass
Rain-sensing front wipers
Wide-view driver’s door mirror
Electrically folding, adjustable and heated door mirrors with integrated LED indicators
Black cloth and faux leather upholstery
Front passenger seat height adjuster
Power lumbar support (driver and front passenger)
Heated front seats
Dual-zone automatic air conditioning
Automatic defog system
Auto-dimming rear mirror
Smart key with engine start/stop button
Free seven-year Kia Connect connectivity services
Rear parking sensors
In addition, the new ‘GT-Line S’ grade, replacing the earlier ‘4’ grade model and now priced from £29,995, offers the following equipment as standard:
GT-Line body kit
GT-Line 18-inch alloy wheels
Panoramic sunroof with tilt and slide function and automatic electric roll blind
Black leather with suede seat upholstery
Memory driver’s seat with power height adjustment
Heated outer rear seats
Smart power tailgate
40:20:40 split-folding rear seats
Eight-speaker JBL premium audio system
12.3-inch TFT Supervision instrument cluster
Wireless mobile phone charger
Smart Park Assist System (SPAS) with parallel / perpendicular front and rear parking sensors
Blind-spot Collision Warning (BCW)
Intelligent Speed Limit Warning (ISLW)
The new XCeed PHEV is available as a single ‘3’ grade model, from £32,595 on-the-road. The new XCeed PHEV ‘3’ offers a compelling blend of high value, generous equipment and low running costs. This is similar to the ‘3’ grade offered on non-PHEV models, but adds:
Unique 16-inch alloy wheel design
Black and satin chrome closed radiator grille
Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go functionality
Drive Mode Select (with ‘Normal’ and ‘Sport’ modes)
The XCeed has always been offered to UK customers with a selection of vibrant colour options, and the new model is no different. All four grades are available in a choice of eight paint options, with ‘Spirit Green’ new to the line-up and never seen before on UK roads.
These are offered alongside existing paint options, which include ‘Phantom Black’, ‘Penta Metal’, ‘Lunar Silver’, ‘Infra Red’, ‘Fusion White’ and ‘Blue Flame’. From launch, ‘Splash Lemon’ is offered as standard, with all other premium colours priced at £580.
