Refreshed Kia XCeed will arrive in showrooms this September

• Interior and exterior updates
• New Dynamic GT-Line trim
• Plug-in hybrid and petrol powertrains available from launch

The refreshed Kia XCeed will arrive with a plug-in hybrid option, but buyers who still want a conventional petrol engine are also catered for. A new Dynamic GT-Line version adds a sportier trim level to compete with higher specification versions of the Toyota CH-R and Mazda CX-30.

The refresh will include revisions to the LED headlights to integrate the fog lights, making space on the bumper for a new design that’s more aerodynamic and improves fuel-efficiency. A prominent upper grille area now spans a wider section of the bumper, and the new Kia badge is set just above it. The refresh will also bring in a new set of 18-inch wheels, in addition to the existing 16-inch and 17-inch designs.

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At the rear, the new Kia badge is significantly larger, and an additional curve is visible underneath the rear window. The LED tail-lights will adopt a new design, and the lower portion of the bumper is shown body coloured in contrast to the front silver skid plate.

Vice president of Design for Kia Europe, Gregory Gulliaume said “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.”

Kia is also improving the infotainment system, which has 10.25-inch ‘floating’ central touchscreen with the brand’s latest software. Sharp new graphics will be a noticeable change for existing Kia owners looking to upgrade, and it’s joined by a 12.3-inch ‘Supervision’ digital instrument panel. 

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Sports fans will be able to access a new feature that can show live scores and match highlights updated by the minute on the central screen. Kia Connect allows your diary to be shared with the car for reminders on the move, and it’s possible to plan journeys on a smartphone phone, then share the route to the navigation system. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto will also be included as standard.

Inside, a sporty feel is matched with soft-touch materials to help maintain an upmarket atmosphere. Buyers opting for GT-line specification will get a series of further interior upgrades, including black headlining and a unique seat design.

We expect the XCeed to arrive in the UK with a 1.5-litre petrol engine producing 158bhp, but a 1.0-litre with 118bhp could arrive later on. The petrol plug-in hybrid has an electric driving range of 30 miles, although Kia claims this equates to more like 38 miles of city driving. The 1.5-litre petrol will be available in automatic and manual transmission, while the plug-in hybrid is auto only.

The new XCeed will arrive in showrooms this September and will be sold with Kia’s seven-year/100,000 mile warranty. Prices are yet to be confirmed but are expected to start just under £30,000.

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