Kia ProCeed GT – 2019
By Ian Strachan
When Kia’s press material says the ProCeed is “all new” they are not kidding. Far from an annual facelift, the new ProCeed is a new car from the ground up. And it’s very good.
They have also got rid of that annoying apostrophe in the car’s name which got grammatical vigilantes like me disproportionately agitated. But make no mistake, the 2019 five-door Kia ProCeed is a big leap forward from the three-door hatch it replaces.
The new ProCeed makes a strong statement in design termas, with its aggressive silhouette, striking shark-like front end and huge rear with brake lights which stretch the full width of the car. A purposeful stance and smart alloy wheels with red side stripes and wheel trims further enhance the sporty credentials of this classy performance car.
From the front you have the ProCeed’s attractive grille with a low, broad bumper and air dam and a wide central air intake. “Ice cube” design daytime running lights and more red trim add some nice sporty touches.
From the side the GT spec which I tested has smooth, flowing lines with bold side sill mouldings, and from the back the car is nicely sculpted, with angled tailgate glass and rear spoiler. Whichever way you view it, this car is a good looker.
The inside is nice too. The heated sports front seats are extremely comfortable with a good range of adjustment. There are plenty of storage spaces around the interior and all instruments are clear and accessible. The GT specification which I tested includes an eight-inch touch-screen with satellite navigation and reversing camera. Under the rear tailgate is a large boot, with useful underfloor storage.
I drove the 265 horsepower 1.6 diesel-powered T-GDi GT which is powered by a smooth but gutsy 1.6 litre engine which has an impressive 0-60 mph time of 7.2 seconds.. This sporty-sounding engine has great acceleration and flexibility. Mated to a smooth seven-speed automatic gearbox you also get good power delivery throughout the range, although the GT’s economy – around 39.3 miles to the gallon in mixed driving – is nothing to write home about.
Ride and handling are excellent thanks to a lightweight chassis, sharp steering response and good suspension.
Specification on the GT Tech trim level is generous. Standard equipment on top of the satnav and reversing camera includes parking assistance, heated steering wheel, keyless entry and ignition, dual-zone automatic air conditioning, rain-sensing wipers, xenon headlights, electrically adjustable heated door mirrors, six speaker DAB radio with iPod connectivity, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay and voice control, and smart cruise control . On the road price for this spec is £28,710.
You also get the very substantial bonus of a 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.
