After selling over 120,000 units in Europe, Kia’s highly successful XCeed compact crossover has received a series of product enhancements for 2022 including a bold new exterior design, an enhanced interior and a new GT-line trim that brings the emotions of the Ceed GT to the popular model. These changes will make the XCeed an even more enticing proposition in the popular C-Crossover segment.
The XCeed has been a hugely popular car for Kia in the UK, accounting for 10 per cent of total Kia sales in the country. The exact UK specification, technical data and pricing information for the new XCeed will be revealed nearer the on-sale date.
The new XCeed integrates a number of design changes alongside a competitive powertrain line-up that includes mild hybrid, plug-in hybrid, petrol and diesel versions. Both the exterior and interior have been enhanced to better match the sporty urban nature of the XCeed and make it an even more distinctive member of the wider Ceed model family.
The inclusion of a sporty, GT-line specification for the first time, combined with a petrol engine that produces 204ps, offers an exciting and dynamic driving experience. This dedicated sporty model captures the imagination and evokes an emotional reaction by appealing to customers who want the rational benefits of a larger vehicle without compromising on their sense of style or sportiness. A standout model in the XCeed range, the GT-line defies expectations with its unique sporty design and GT-inspired performance.
As one of the most high-tech cars in its class, the new XCeed is a flagship model for Kia thanks to its latest technologies including advanced safety, connectivity and infotainment systems. Designed to improve everyday usability, enjoyment and occupant safety, these updates continue the XCeed’s legacy as a technology leader within the C-Crossover segment.
As a sustainable mobility solutions provider, Kia introduces the new XCeed with a wide range of efficient and electrified powertrain options. The XCeed Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) delivers an all electric range of 48km, equivalent to 60 km of city driving, while other fuel-efficient powertrains are also available, from fast-revving, turbocharged engines to innovative mild-hybrid systems, ensuring the XCeed is equipped for every modern lifestyle.
Sjoerd Knipping, Vice President of Marketing and Product at Kia Europe, commented: “Our customers have praised the XCeed’s unique combination of dynamic handling, everyday practicality and in-car technology. This new model builds upon these strengths with a series of stylish exterior and interior design changes and new tech features. We’ve also ensured our enhanced crossover benefits from the latest powertrain options, a sign of our long-term commitment to delivering sustainable mobility solutions for our customers.
“A sporty alternative to larger models, the XCeed has become the best-selling model in the wider Kia Ceed line-up. It provides the commanding driving position and comfort of an SUV with the dynamic handling and manoeuvrability of a compact European hatchback,” Knipping added.
As with other members of the Ceed model family, the new XCeed will be manufactured at Kia’s high-tech production facility in Zilina, Slovakia, with sales commencing in September 2022. The new crossover will once again come with Kia’s seven-year,150,000 kilometre warranty.
Exterior design
Sporty performance in a modern and practical crossover package
Stylish, expressive and modern in appearance, the new Kia XCeed builds upon its predecessor’s iconic design. A product of the brand’s European design centre in Frankfurt, Germany, the XCeed’s updated design has been crafted under the direction of Gregory Guillaume, Vice President of Design for Kia Europe.
Guillaume commented: “The XCeed is our most popular model within the Ceed range and it was important that we took this opportunity to further refine its styling and progress the Ceed design language. The changes we have made further highlight the sporty, urban and adventurous nature of the XCeed.”
The new Kia XCeed features new LED headlamps and a revised grille, front bumper and innovative air intake design. By creatively integrating the fog lamps into the headlights, the designers were able to include air curtains on either side which guide air smoothly around the vehicle’s wheels to reduce drag and improve fuel efficiency.
The new XCeed rides on dedicated 18-inch alloys designed specifically for CUV-segment appeal. At the rear, targeted refinements include a new diffuser with a gloss black skid plate and a discreet ‘exhaust-look’ design for a refreshed sporty look across the XCeed range. In profile, the XCeed’s relatively long bonnet flows into the A-pillars aft of the front wheels, lending the car a sporty, swept-back silhouette. While the wheelbase remains the same as other models in the Ceed line-up at 2,650mm, the XCeed’s front and rear overhangs have been extended over the five-door hatchback by 25mm at the front (to 905mm) and 60mm at the rear (to 840mm). The only body panels carried over from its five-door hatchback sibling are the front doors.
A fast sloping roofline that leads to the steeply-angled fastback tailgate enhances the XCeed’s dynamic, coupé-like appearance. It sits on a choice of 16- or 18-inch machined aluminium alloy wheels shod with high-grip 205/60 R16 or 235/45 R18 tyres.
At the rear, LED tail-lights emit a slim, highly-technical light signature which, when viewed from certain angles, appears to spear forward into the shoulders of the car. The heavily-creased lines running horizontally across the tailgate and rear bumper give the new XCeed a wider, more stable posture.
The XCeed’s elevated ride and sculpted body present a robust image that consistently attracts buyers to Kia’s product portfolio. The XCeed’s ground clearance is 172mm on 16-inch wheels and 184mm on 18-inch wheels, a rise of up to 44mm over the Ceed five-door hatchback. Wheel arch and side sill cladding, along with satin chrome roof rails, lend the car a tough presence.
Introducing GT DNA to the XCeed range
With the introduction of the GT-line, Kia brings sporting appeal to the XCeed, stirring an evocative visual and driving experience by elevating this popular model to a whole new level. It speaks directly to those customers who balance their heart and head; choosing a practical, spacious, safe family vehicle with eye-catching design and incredible performance.
The GT-line has been introduced across the Kia line-up over recent years to boost performance and the emotional connection to movement that is inherent in Kia’s DNA. The addition of GT-line to XCeed is an exciting new development for one of the brand’s most popular model families.
The new GT-line specification features a series of sporting touches that differentiate it from the baseline model. An edgy tiger nose design frames the new front grille, while a sporty lower air intake and side bumper cladding adds a more aggressive look to the front end. Air curtains finished in dark chrome help to feed air through the front of the car to reduce drag and enhance aerodynamic efficiency. At the rear, striking new hexagonal shaped LED tail-lights and a sporty body-coloured lower diffuser complete the revamped model and separate the XCeed GT-line from anything else on the street.
The new model rides on sleek, machine-finished 18-inch alloy wheels to give an athletic appeal, while body-coloured sills, gloss black roof rails and mirrors further boost its active and dynamic appearance.
Interior design
Superior ergonomics and high-quality materials deliver a first-class environment
Inside, the new Kia XCeed’s sculptured centre console is oriented slightly towards the driver. With a commanding seat position and raised ground clearance over a conventional hatchback, the Kia XCeed provides drivers with a sportier driving position while also allowing for a better view of the road ahead.
A ‘floating’ touchscreen infotainment system stands apart from the dashboard, while the lower portion of the instrument panel provides a set of touch-sensitive buttons, dials and switches to control audio volume, heating and ventilation. Highly ergonomic in layout and functionality, these controls have been redesigned to improve interaction and enable drivers to make quick changes to the cabin environment without taking their eyes off the road.
The new Kia XCeed comes with engaging new graphic themes for the 12.3-inch Supervision digital instrument cluster, the designs of which can be linked to the vehicle’s Drive Modes, while a gloss black transmission panel and a new thin bezel-edged rear-view mirror improve both form and function.
The interior is finished in sophisticated soft-touch materials throughout, with a satin chrome dashboard trim presenting a refined, upscale ambience. Buyers can choose from a range of cloth, suede, synthetic leather or genuine leather upholstery finishes for the seats.
The interior also receives a GT-line treatment, with a host of improvements to match the sporting feel of the exterior including a motorsport-inspired ‘D-cut’ steering wheel, black headliner, a gear knob wrapped in perforated leather and a special GT-line seat design.
Packaging
Cabin and storage space in a sporty compact body
The new Kia XCeed is designed to achieve the cabin and storage space of a larger model in a sportier body with a more compact footprint. Sitting directly between the Ceed five-door hatchback and the Kia Sportage, the Kia XCeed still manages to provide comparable interior space and luggage capacity to Europe’s best-selling larger models.
With a total length of 4,395mm, the new Kia XCeed is 85mm longer than the Ceed five-door hatchback and 120mm more compact than the Sportage. Its maximum roof of 1,495mm also means it stands 48mm above the Ceed and 155mm below the Sportage, providing drivers with a lower centre of gravity than its taller sibling.
The new Kia XCeed offers generous interior space for front and rear occupants. With the hip point for each seat raised by up to 44mm over that of the Ceed hatchback, drivers are provided an elevated driving position in addition to easier ingress and egress. A half-moon-shaped glass area and fastback roofline provide rear passengers with a brighter, airier ambience and more headroom than other rivals in the compact crossover class.
Luggage capacity for the new Kia XCeed is rated at 426 litres (VDA) and with the rear seats folded, luggage capacity grows to 1,378 litres. Versatility is also assured thanks to 40:20:40 split-folding rear seats, a Smart Power Tailgate with adjustment, and a two-step boot floor that can be moved up or down to provide either more space or a hidden underfloor storage compartment. This higher boot floor also improves ergonomics when moving luggage in or out of the vehicle.
Advanced powertrains
Petrol, diesel, MHEV and PHEV powertrains designed to suit every requirement
The new Kia XCeed is powered by a range of fast-revving, turbocharged petrol engines, the majority of which feature mild-hybrid technology, while an advanced plug-in hybrid powertrain enables drivers to benefit from extensive emissions-free mobility.
Three turbocharged petrol direct injection (T-GDi) engines are available in the refreshed XCeed line-up. A three-cylinder 1.0-litre T-GDi engine delivers 120 ps and 172 Nm of torque, while a four-cylinder 1.5-litre T-GDi engine produces 160 ps and 253 Nm of torque. A high-power 1.6-litre T-GDi engine, the same unit found in Ceed and ProCeed GT models, is also available for the most powerful XCeed variant. With a 204 ps power output and 265 Nm of torque across a broad range of engine speeds, the muscular 1.6-litre T-GDi engine perfectly matches the car’s ability to thrive in a variety of driving situations. It can accelerate from 0-to-100 kph in 7.5 seconds when equipped with the seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.
Ideal for those who regularly cover long distances, the new XCeed is also available with a frugal diesel mild-hybrid electric vehicle (MHEV) powertrain. This 1.6-litre diesel engine can be paired with a six-speed manual transmission to deliver 136 ps and 280 Nm of torque, or 320 Nm with the seven-speed dual-clutch version.
The MHEV system supplements the engine’s torque output with power from a compact 48-volt lithium-ion polymer battery that is now available across the entire model family. The roll-out of new mild-hybrid powertrain technology across the updated XCeed range reduces CO2 emissions by up to 10 per cent (NEDC 2.0, combined cycle), depending on body style, choice of transmission, engine power output and vehicle specification. Importantly, while the adoption of MHEV technology improves fuel efficiency, engine performance remains the same as before.
Instead of a hydraulic control, the XCeed is fitted with the brand’s intelligent Manual Transmission (iMT) which operates purely electronically and is integrated seamlessly with the EcoDynamics+ powertrain. The iMT system works with the Mild-Hybrid Starter-Generator (MHSG) to switch off the engine when the vehicle is coasting to a halt. In the XCeed’s default ‘Eco’ drive mode, it also enables brief periods of ‘engine-off’ coasting at speeds of up to 125 km/h (77 mph), seamlessly reactivating when the driver pushes the accelerator, brake or clutch pedal. The system contributes to the MHEV’s overall fuel efficiency improvements and reduces CO2 emissions by around three percent in real-world driving conditions.
A highly efficient plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrain option is once again available in the new XCeed, combining an 8.9 kWh lithium-polymer battery pack, a 44.5 kW electric motor, and an efficient 1.6-litre ‘Kappa’ four-cylinder GDI engine. Paired with a six-speed dual-clutch transmission (6DCT), the PHEV transmits up to 141 ps and 265 Nm to the front wheels, while drivers will also benefit from an all-electric range of 48km, equating to 60km of city driving. This will enable drivers to complete the majority of daily drives and short commutes solely on electric power.
The six-speed manual gearbox is available on the 1.0- and 1.5-litre petrol variants along with 1.6-litre diesel models, while the seven-speed dual-clutch transmission is a choice for the 1.5-litre T-GDi, 1.6-litre T-GDi and 1.6-litre diesel versions. The XCeed plug-in hybrid 1.6-litre model is only available with the six-speed dual-clutch box.
Ride and handling
XCeed engages drivers with sporty handling and a comfortable, assured ride
The new XCeed’s ride and handling characteristics were developed by Kia’s European engineering teams for ultimate comfort and engagement in all conditions. Despite its elevated ride , the new XCeed has been designed to be engaging to drive due to its bespoke suspension tuning, compact exterior dimensions, lower centre of gravity and reduced mass.
Uniquely in the Ceed model line-up, the Kia XCeed features front hydraulic rebound stoppers, fitted as standard to the front axle of all models. The rubber bump-stop floats in hydraulic fluid within the shock absorbers, providing a highly compliant ride over poor surfaces. The car has been designed to absorb even large suspension shocks with a smooth and progressive response, preventing the body from bouncing as the suspension settles itself after rapid compression. It also contributes toward more responsive steering and improved overall body control, while reducing noise from the suspension over bumps.
The XCeed’s spring rates are seven percent softer in the front and four percent softer in the rear to deliver greater comfort and stability in all conditions, while a dynamic damper for the rear cross-member further quells road noise and structural vibrations on the move.
The electronic control unit (ECU) governing the power steering motor is tuned to deliver a quicker initial response to steering inputs. This ensures drivers can enjoy quick steering responses and reduced levels of body roll. The level of assistance provided by the power steering motor delivers subtly lighter overall steering to reduce driver fatigue on longer journeys and at low speeds.
Kia’s Drive Mode Select system enables drivers to fine-tune their driving experience by adjusting steering weight, throttle pedal response, and, for models equipped with double-clutch transmissions, gear shift responses. With a choice between ‘Eco’, ‘Normal’ and ‘Sport’ modes, drivers can select Sport mode to subtly enhance acceleration response times and adapt the steering to offer additional weight and more decisive responses to driver inputs, while Normal mode enables the driver to maximise the potential for comfort and relaxed cruising. Lastly, the Eco mode is designed to lessen the engine’s work in order to increase fuel efficiency.
Technology
High-tech infotainment and connectivity
The new Kia XCeed’s advanced suite of infotainment, connectivity and safety technologies ensures it remains one of the most comprehensively-equipped cars in its class. Its features are designed to make driving safer and less stressful while providing total ease of operation.
The new XCeed’s 10.25-inch touchscreen navigation system features Bluetooth multi-connection as standard, enabling occupants to connect two mobile devices at once, while Android Auto and Apple CarPlay functionality are also standard. Depending on vehicle specification, XCeed users can also choose between a 5.0-inch DAB-radio system or an 8.0-inch audio display touchscreen system featuring wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.
Drivers can opt for a fully-digital 12.3-inch Supervision instrument cluster that benefits from a number of new graphical themes which alter in response to the selected driving mode; ‘Eco’, ‘Normal’ or ‘Sport’. With a high-definition 1920×720 digital display, vehicle and engine speed dials are displayed in pin-sharp clarity, while a multi-function display communicates turn-by-turn navigation instructions, audio information, in-depth trip information, vehicle diagnostics alerts and pop-up notifications linked to the car’s various active safety and driver-assist technologies.
Enhanced connectivity also gives third party calendar integration so users can link their Google or Apple diary to the audiovisual display and ensure they never miss an appointment. Furthermore, if a destination has been saved in any meeting invitation, it can be used to start the navigation from inside the vehicle for an intuitive and safe customer experience.
The new XCeed also benefits from the latest version of Kia Connect, a system that links drivers to the world around them by providing invaluable information via the in-car touchscreen or through the Kia Connect app. Featuring Kia Live services and accessed through the vehicle’s infotainment system, Kia Connect uses its own eSIM card to retrieve and update live data during a drive. This includes live traffic information, weather forecasts, points of interest, and details of potential on- and off-street parking (including price, location and parking availability). Drivers can use Kia Connect to plan journeys in advance by sending navigation data via smartphone to the vehicle before a journey, while users can also access the app to locate their vehicle, ideal in large car parks or in surroundings that are unfamiliar.
The latest variant of Kia Connect adds the personalised user profile function allowing the customer to create two customised user profiles. This feature enables users to back-up their in-vehicle Kia Connect preferences via the cloud and transfer settings from one vehicle to another. This is designed for customers who often switch between different Kia Connect-equipped cars, such as fleet drivers who use pool cars, or families with more than one Kia Connect-equipped vehicle in their household.
Other features designed to enhance the comfort and enjoyment of each journey include a JBL Premium audio system with Clari-Fi technology, dual-zone air-conditioning, heated electric folding door mirrors, a heated steering wheel, a heated windscreen, and heated and ventilated front seats and heated rear seats. The new XCeed brings USB Type-C ports for front and rear passengers, while fast-charging capability further enhances convenience on the move.
Safety and peace of mind as standard
The new Kia XCeed includes a wide range of active driver-assist and safety technologies to provide ultimate peace of mind and protection. Smart Cruise Control (SCC) is upgraded with the addition of the navigation-related function. Navigation-assisted SCC (NSCC) benefits from an Auto-set function which automatically adjusts the XCeed’s cruising speed according to the maximum set for that road in the navigation’s on-road data system.
In addition to the Auto-set function which controls maximum speed, NSCC also adds ‘zone’ functionality (NSCC-Z) which reduces vehicle speed in ‘safe zones’ identified in the navigation system. Once out of the ‘safe zone’ the system will return the vehicle to its previous cruising speed.
An additional development of the NSCC seen on the XCeed is the Curve function (NSCC-C) which uses the navigation data to predict an upcoming bend in the road, reduces cruising speed if needed to go through the corner safely, and then returns to the preset speed once the corner has been navigated.
As with every Kia sold in Europe, the new XCeed is equipped as standard with Vehicle Stability Management. This aids stability when braking and cornering by controlling the car’s Electronic Stability Control (ESC) system if it detects any loss of traction.
Kia’s Blind-spot Collision-Avoidance Assist (BCA) works hand in hand with the Blind-spot Collision Warning system (BCW). Using the same sensors located in the rear bumper, BCA adds preventative measures should the driver begin to turn into a lane when another vehicle is present in the driver’s blind spot. Coupled with the audio and visual alerts present in the BCW, the system applies brake pressure to the wheels on the opposite side of the car, which guides the vehicle back into the original lane. This groundbreaking safety feature received the Autoblog 2020 Technology of the Year Award for its effectiveness and user-friendly setup. The Kia Blind-spot Collision-Avoidance Assist (BCA) is part of Kia’s exclusive technology suite focused on making everyday driving a safer and more relaxing experience.
Designed to keep all vehicle occupants safe, the Driver Attention Warning Plus (DAW+) system monitors the usual driving habits and behaviour of the driver to learn the driver’s usual tendencies and driving patterns. When the system detects any irregularities in driving behaviour which may indicate driver fatigue or distraction, it alerts the driver with visual and audio warnings. A coffee cup icon appears on the dashboard along with an audible alert to warn the driver that they should consider taking a break. DAW+ also emits an audible alert and a visual warning if the car in front moves away and the driver does not react.
Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist (RCCA) is designed to facilitate everyday journeys. The system uses sensors in the rear bumper and a rearview camera to give the driver a better view and understanding of what is behind the vehicle when reversing out of a parking space. The sensors alert the driver of oncoming traffic to the left or right of the vehicle before they come into view. If the system detects a vehicle rapidly approaching, a warning chime will sound and an icon on both side mirrors will illuminate to notify the driver that a collision may be imminent. If the driver does not react, the system brakes automatically to avoid a collision. Parking manoeuvres are also made easier with the Smart Parking Assist function which uses a series of sensors to aid with parking in tight spaces.
Further safety features on the new XCeed include Forward Collision Warning with car and pedestrian detection, Intelligent Speed Limit Warning, Lane Keeping Assist, Lane Following Assist, Highway Driving Assist and High Beam Assist.
UK specification, technical information and pricing will be confirmed closer to the on-sale date.
