2023 Kia XCeed GT-line S (UK-Spec)
After selling over 120,000 units in Europe, Kia's highly successful XCeed compact crossover has received a series of product enhancements for 2022. These include a bold new exterior design, an enhanced interior, and new 'GT-Line' and 'GT-line S' trim levels. These changes 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 during 2021, and more than half of all Ceed sales over the same timeframe. The new XCeed integrates a series of design changes alongside a competitive powertrain line-up that includes turbocharged petrol and plug-in hybrid 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 Ceed model family.
The inclusion of sporty 'GT-Line' and 'GT-line S' specifications for the first time offers an exciting and dynamic driving experience. These dedicated models capture the imagination and evoke 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. Standing out in the XCeed range, the 'GT-Line' and 'GT-Line S' models defy expectations with their unique sporty design and 'GT'-inspired ambience.
As one of the most high-tech cars in its class, the new Kia 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 leader within the C-Crossover segment.
As a sustainable mobility solutions provider, Kia introduces the latest XCeed with a range of efficient and electrified powertrain options. The XCeed Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) delivers an all-electric driving range of 29.8 miles, equivalent to 36.6 miles of city driving, while a fast-revving, 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine ensures the XCeed matches customers' on-road performance expectations.
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 technology 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 is manufactured at Kia's high-tech production facility in Zilina, Slovakia, which uses 100 per cent renewable energy for its operations.
DESIGN AND PACKAGING
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 wheels to reduce drag and improve fuel efficiency.
At the rear, LED taillights 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 new XCeed rides on dedicated 18-inch alloys for '3' (not PHEV) 'GT-Line' and 'GT-Line S' models. At the rear, targeted refinements include a new diffuser with a gloss black skid plate and a discreet 'exhaust-look' 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 slightly 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 are longer than 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 Kia XCeed's dynamic, coupé-like appearance. XCeed '2' and '3 PHEV' models sit on 16-inch alloy wheels with 205/60 R16 tyres, while the '3 ICE', GT-Line' and 'GT-Line S' features 18-inch machined aluminium alloy wheels shod with high-grip 235/45 R18 tyres.
The XCeed's elevated ride height and sculpted body present a robust image that consistently attracts buyers to Kia's product portfolio. The latest 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, while 'GT-Line' and 'GT-Line S' models receive gloss black and dark chrome notes to further amplify the 'GT' DNA.
Superior ergonomics and high-quality materials deliver a first-class environment
Inside, the 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, and dials and switches to control audio volume, heating, and ventilation. Highly ergonomic in layout and functionality, these controls are designed 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, standard on 'GT Line S' versions, the designs of which can be linked to the vehicle's Drive Modes. 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. Models are trimmed in cloth, cloth with faux leather or black leather with suede finishes for the seats, depending on the chosen grade.
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 height 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 on 'GT-Line S' models, thanks to 40:20:40 split-folding rear seats and a smart power tailgate with opening height adjustment.
Intelligent powertrain packaging and everyday usability
The XCeed was engineered from the start to accommodate new hybrid powertrains. This means that the adoption of a plug-in hybrid powertrain has had a minimal impact on packaging, with the structure adapted from the start to contain the powertrain's battery pack.
The 8.9kWh 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. The XCeed Plug-in Hybrid provides 291 litres of luggage space, and up to 1,243 litres with the split-fold rear seats folded down. There is a dedicated space beneath the boot floor to store the charging cable when not in use.
A Towing Pack is fitted as standard, a rarity among cars in the plug-in hybrid class. A braked trailer of up to 1,300kg can be towed with the XCeed PHEV.
DYNAMICS
With the introduction of the 'GT-Line' and 'GT-line S' models, Kia brings sporting appeal to the XCeed with an evocative new design. It speaks directly to those customers who balance their heart and head, choosing a practical, spacious, safe family vehicle with eye-catching design.
'GT-Line' and 'GT-Line S' specifications have been introduced across the Kia line-up over recent years to deliver a sporty ambience and the emotional connection to movement that is inherent in Kia's DNA.
The new 'GT-Line' and 'GT-Line S' specifications feature a series of sporting touches that differentiate them from the baseline model. An edgy tiger nose design frames the new front grille, while a sporty lower air intake and side bumper cladding add a more aggressive look to the front end. Air curtains finished in dark chrome help to feed air through the front of the car, contributing to the car's high aerodynamic efficiency. At the rear, striking new 'honeycomb' shaped LED taillights and a sporty body-coloured lower diffuser complete the revamped model and separate the XCeed 'GT-Line' and 'GT-Line S' from anything else on the street. The new models ride on sleek, machine-finished 18-inch alloy wheels to give an athletic appeal, while body-coloured sills and gloss black mirrors further boost its active and dynamic appearance.
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 height, 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 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 towards more responsive steering and improved overall body control, while reducing noise from the suspension over bumps.
Compared to the Ceed hatchback and Ceed Sportswagon, the XCeed's spring rates are seven per cent softer at the front and four per cent softer at the rear to deliver greater comfort and stability in all conditions. 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 compared to the Ceed hatchback. 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.
Available on XCeed PHEV '3' models, 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.
ENGINES
The new Kia XCeed is offered with a fast-revving, turbocharged petrol engine, while an advanced plug-in hybrid powertrain enables drivers to benefit from extensive emissions-free mobility.
The four-cylinder 1.5-litre T-GDi engine produces 158bhp and 253Nm of torque and is paired to a six-speed manual transmission. It can hit 60mph in 8.7 seconds and has a top speed of 129mph. Grade '2' models have CO2 emissions of 137g/km and can achieve 46.3mpg on the WLTP combined economy cycle. Move up to 'GT-Line' and '3' specifications and fuel economy of 44.8mpg is possible, with CO2 emissions of 141g/km. At the top of the new XCeed range is the 'GT-Line S' which also manages 44.8mpg on the combined cycle, with CO2 emissions of 143g/km. The engine is fitted with a gasoline particulate filter to further reduce tailpipe emissions, ensuring the XCeed goes beyond the requirements of the Euro 6d RDE2 standard. The manual gearbox is a six-speed unit, light and compact with a short, slick shift. It offers a wide spread of ratios and long final drive to help bring down fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.
Intelligent Stop and Go (ISG)
All 1.5-litre versions of the new Kia XCeed are fitted with Kia's Intelligent Stop and Go (ISG) stop-start system to reduce fuel consumption and emissions in traffic. This switches off the engine when the car comes to rest and the driver puts the gear stick into neutral and releases the clutch pedal. The engine restarts instantly as soon as the clutch pedal is partially engaged again. This feature means the car uses no fuel and produces no emissions when at rest.
ISG consists of crankshaft position, battery, and vacuum sensors plus neutral, on-off and clutch switches that feed into an electronic control unit. This operates the ISG starter, intelligent alternator, and cluster. The air conditioning units and bonnet switch also feed into the ISG ECU.
The crankshaft position sensor measures the crankshaft angle during engine run-out and monitors it while the vehicle is stopped, ensuring the starter is activated for as short a time as possible by optimising cranking and combustion. The battery sensor monitors battery condition and temperature, while the clutch and neutral switches recognise when drivers wish to continue driving and ensure the engine is started. There is a brake booster pressure sensor to make sure the engine continues to operate if brake boost falls too low.
A heavy-duty, maintenance-free Absorbent Glass Mat (AGM) battery delivers the power necessary to run the system, and intelligent alternator management reduces drain on the battery while accelerating and recharges the battery during coasting and braking. The system has been engineered not to stop the engine during warm-up after a cold start or if the air conditioning is working hard. Drivers can also manually turn off ISG through a switch next to the gear stick.
CUTTING EDGE PLUG-IN HYBRID POWERTRAIN
A highly efficient plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrain option is also available in the new Kia XCeed, combining an 8.9kWh lithium-polymer battery pack, a 44.5kW electric motor, and an efficient 1.6-litre 'Kappa' four-cylinder GDi petrol engine. Paired with a six-speed dual-clutch transmission (6DCT), the PHEV transmits up to 139bhp and 265Nm of torque to the front wheels, while drivers will also benefit from an all-electric range of 29.8 miles, equating to 36.6 miles of city driving. This will enable drivers to complete most daily drives and short commutes solely on electric power. Recharging the battery pack using a 3.3kW charger takes 2.15 hours.
Equipped with 16-inch alloy wheels, the XCeed PHEV '3' model emits just 32g/km of CO2 and achieves a combined drive cycle figure of 201.7mpg under the latest WLTP regulations. With a maximum speed of 99mph, the XCeed PHEV can complete the 0-60mph dash in 10.6 seconds.
The powertrain is paired with a six-speed dual-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). Traditional e-CVT hybrids convert a portion of engine output through the electric motor, resulting in power losses from energy conversion. Kia's 6DCT differs by allowing the full output of both the engine and motor to be transferred in parallel through the transmission, with minimal loss of energy.
Standard regenerative braking technology allows the new Plug-in Hybrid model to harvest kinetic energy and recharge their battery packs while coasting or braking, further enhancing the overall efficiency of the powertrain.
Kia's Virtual Engine Sound System is included, which comprises 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.
TECHNOLOGY
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 on 'GT-Line', '3' and 'GT-Line S' versions feature Bluetooth multi-connection as standard, enabling occupants to connect two mobile devices at once, while Android Auto™ and Apple CarPlay™ functionality are also standard. XCeed '2' models feature an 8.0-inch audio display touchscreen system including wireless Android Auto™ and Apple CarPlay™.
A fully digital 12.3-inch Supervision instrument cluster is standard on 'GT-Line S' models and benefits from new graphical themes. With a high-definition 1920×720 digital display, vehicle and engine speed dials are displayed in pin-sharp clarity. 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. It replaces the 4.2-inch colour TFT-LCD screen on '2', 'GT-Line' and '3' versions.
Enhanced connectivity also gives third party calendar integration so users can link their Google or Apple diary to the audio-visual 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 Kia XCeed offers the innovative Kia Connect telematics system, designed to bring driving into the digital era. Kia Connect provides invaluable information via the in-car touchscreen and on their smartphone. Featuring Kia Live services and housed within the 10.25-inch TFT LCD widescreen that comes as standard on 'GT-Line', '3' and 'GT-Line S' models, the system uses its own eSIM chip 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). The second element of the Kia Connect diagnostic data about owners' cars and the trips they take enables drivers to send route directions to their car before a journey and enables them to check the location of their vehicle at any time. 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.
A reversing camera is also integrated into the touchscreen, with dynamic guidelines. The system features DAB radio as standard, as well as steering wheel controls and seven speakers (eight on 'GT-Line S'). Apple CarPlayTM and Android AutoTM smartphone integration with voice control is included, as well as multi-connection Bluetooth® system that enables occupants to connect two mobile devices at once.
Other features designed to enhance the comfort and enjoyment of each journey include a JBL® Premium audio system with Clari-Fi technology on 'GT-Line S' models, dual-zone air-conditioning on 'GT-Line', '3' and 'GT-Line S', heated electric folding door mirrors ('GT-Line', '3' and 'GT-Line S'), a heated steering wheel ('GT-Line', '3' and 'GT-Line S') and heated front seats on 'GT-Line', '3' and 'GT-Line S' editions. The new XCeed brings USB Type-C ports for front and rear passengers, with fast-charging capability further enhancing convenience on the move.
SAFETY
The new Kia XCeed PHEV provides access to a wide range of active driver assist and safety technologies. All models come fitted with Lane Keep Assist (LKAS), High-Beam Assist (HBA), Hill-start Assist Control (HAC), Speed Limit Information Function (SLIF) and the Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA) system can detect city objects, pedestrians, and cyclists. Driver Attention Warning (DAW) advises drivers to take a break if the system detects signs of fatigue. Lane Following Assist (LFA) is also included, which controls acceleration, braking and steering. The system can track vehicles and road markings ahead to keep the car in-lane and a safe distance from any cars in front.
'GT-Line S' models go one step further with the integration of Smart Cruise Control with stop and go functionality, Blind Spot Collision Warning (BCW) and Intelligent Speed Limit Warning (ISLW).
As with every Kia car sold in Europe, the Kia XCeed is equipped as standard with Vehicle Stability Management. This aids stability when braking and cornering by controlling the car's Electronic Stability Control if it detects a loss of traction.
SPECIFICATION HIGHLIGHTS
The updated Kia XCeed is one of the most comprehensively equipped models in the Ceed family, with a compelling package of comfort, convenience, connectivity, and safety items. The car is available in the UK in '2', '3' and sporty 'GT-Line' and 'GT-Line S' grades.
The range begins with '2' specification and comes generously kitted out with 16-inch alloy wheels, a matt black and satin chrome radiator grille, LED bi-function projection headlights, automatic headlight control, air conditioning, all-round electric windows, cruise control with speed limiter, Android AutoTM, Apple CarPlayTM and Bluetooth smartphone connectivity, a reversing camera with dynamic guidelines, and 8.0-inch colour touchscreen display. This is in addition to safety equipment that includes Driver Attention Warning (DAW), Forward Collision Avoidance (FCA) with city, pedestrian and cyclist detection, Hill-start Assist Control (HAC), High Beam Assist (HBA), Lane Following Assist (LFA), Lane Keep Assist (LKA), six airbags, an alarm system and ISOFIX child seat top tethers and anchor fixings for the outer rear seats. The XCeed '2' also features silver roof rails, 60:40 split folding rear seats, twin front USB charge ports (One USB and one USB-C), rear USB-C charge port, a leather trimmed steering wheel and faux leather gearshift, black premium cloth upholstery and electrically adjustable and heated door mirrors.
Move up to 'GT-Line' or '3' grade vehicles and there's the addition of larger 18-inch alloy wheels, rear privacy glass, rain sensing front wipers, electrically folding, adjustable and heated door mirrors with integrated LED indicator lights, black cloth with faux leather upholstery, heated front seats and steering wheel, electronic parking brake (EPB), smart cruise control (SCC) with stop and go functionality, dual automatic air conditioning, an automatic defog system, auto-dimming rear-view mirror, rear parking sensors, and a smart key with engine start/stop button ('GT-Line' features a fold-away key with remote central locking). The touchscreen for the infotainment system is upgraded to 10.25-inches with satellite navigation as standard, and Kia's acclaimed Connect system is provided free for seven years. In addition, there's a front passenger seat height adjuster and power lumbar support for the front seats.
The 'GT-Line' model has several aesthetic differences from the '3' grade. Drivers benefit from numerous 'GT' inspired design tweaks such as gloss black details and multiple external hints of dark chrome around the vehicle, as well as LED 'honeycomb' rear lights. Inside, the XCeed 'GT-Line' receives a leather D-cut steering wheel and aluminium pedals, to contribute to the sporty cabin ambience.
The PHEV version of the XCeed in '3' specification additionally features a black and satin chrome closed radiator grille and smaller 16-inch alloy wheels for increased efficiency.
Sitting at the top of the range, the sporty new 'GT-Line S' model boasts a host of extra equipment, including panoramic sunroof with tilting/sliding functionality and automatic electric roller blind, black leather and suede upholstery, heated outer rear seats, a leather D-cut steering wheel, aluminium pedals, smart power tailgate, and 40:20:40 split folding rear seats. There's also an eight-speaker JBL® premium sound system, wireless mobile phone charger, gloss black shark fin antenna, a 12.3-inch supervision cluster display and Smart Park Assist System (SPAS) for automated parallel and perpendicular parking, with front and rear parking sensors. Blind-spot Collision Warning (BCW) is included as standard on 'GT-Line S' models, as is Intelligent Speed Limit Warning (ISLW). Completing the repertoire is a high gloss black and dark chrome radiator grille, high gloss black door mirrors with lower matt black housing and memory functionality for the electric driver's seat.
(Kia Press Release)
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