By Ian Strachan.
Kia has given its coupe-like ProCeed a comprehensive facelift. The result is a sportier offering in the excellent Ceed stable, with sporty lines and an aggressive stance.
The European-designed Kia ProCeed gets new exterior trim including side air intakes, a new grille and new shark-like headlights.
The result is a ProCeed which makes a strong statement in design terms, with its aggressive silhouette, striking front end and huge rear with brake lights which stretch the full width of the car. A purposeful stance and smart 17-inch alloy wheels further enhance the sporty credentials of this classy performance car. Whichever way you view it, this car is a good looker.
The inside is nice too. The heated sports front seats in cloth and faux leather 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 Line specification which I tested includes a 10.25-inch touch-screen with satellite navigation and reversing camera. This also controls the six-speaker audio system with DAB radio, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay and voice control.
Load space is good, helped by a 60/40 split rear seat. Under the rear tailgate is a large boot, with useful underfloor storage.
The Kia ProCeed GT-Line which I drove comes with the 157 horsepower 1.5 T-GDi power unit which is smooth but gutsy. It has a 0-60 mph time of 8.5 seconds and top speed of 130 mph. This sporty-sounding engine has great acceleration and flexibility. Mated to a smooth six-speed manual gearbox you also get good power delivery throughout the range. Expect about 48.7 miles to the gallon in mixed driving.
Ride and handling are excellent thanks to a lightweight chassis, sharp steering response and good suspension.
Specification on the GT-Line is generous. Standard equipment on top of the satnav and reversing camera includes lane-keeping assistance, heated leather steering wheel, hill-start assist, keyless entry and ignition, dual-zone automatic air conditioning, rain-sensing wipers, high-beam assist, electrically adjustable heated door mirrors and front and rear fog lights. On the road price for this spec is £26,190.
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.
