By Ian Strachan.
Kia has certainly made good use of its versatile Ceed floorpan. The Korean manufacturer is competing in an increasingly crowded market, but the latest version of the excellent XCeed continues to please.
I tested the Kia XCeed in GT-Line S spec, powered by a 158 bhp 1.5 petrol engine. It’s a proven unit with more than adequate power which will take it from 0-60 mph in 8.9 seconds with a top speed, where allowed, of 129 mph. The XCeed’s miles per gallon in mixed driving is around 44.8. Mated to a springy six-speed manual gearbox you get good power delivery throughout the range.
All this adds to the appeal of the Frankfurt-designed crossover, which is building a loyal customer base. The XCeed is sporty, has striking design cues and is very comfortable and well-specified, with the sort of extras you would expect to find on a much more expensive car.
The XCeed makes a strong statement in design terms, with its aggressive silhouette and striking shark-like front end. A purposeful stance, black and satin chrome radiator grille and roof rails, along with smart 18 inch alloy wheels further enhance the sporty credentials of this classy performer.
From the front you have the XCeed’s low, broad bumper and air dam, wide central air intake and feline headlights. From the side the XCeed has smooth, flowing lines with bold side mouldings, and from the back the car is nicely sculpted, with angled tailgate glass. Whichever way you view it, this car is a good looker.
The inside is attractive too. The heated nicely-trimmed black leather and suede front seats are very comfortable with a good range of adjustment. There are plenty of storage spaces around the interior and all instruments are clear and accessible. You get a 10.25-inch touch-screen with satellite navigation and reversing camera as well as an eight-speaker premium sound system, with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay and voice control.
Ride and handling are excellent thanks to a lightweight chassis, sharp steering response and good suspension.
Specification on the GT-Line S specification is generous. Standard equipment on top of the satnav and reversing camera includes lane-keeping assistance, heated steering wheel, heated front and outer rear seats, keyless entry and ignition, dual-zone automatic air conditioning, rain-sensing wipers, automatic headlights with high-beam assist, front fog lights, electrically adjustable heated door mirrors, smart cruise control, driver attention warning and hill-start assist . On the road price for this spec is £31,915 which is certainly competitive.
You also get the very substantial bonus of a Kia’s seven year, 100,000 mile warranty, which means the third or even fourth owner could still benefit from a manufacturer’s warranty.
I found this well-equipped, sporty Kia pleasing in every way.
