2019 Kia XCeed: prices, performance, interior space and release date
Does Kia's new crossover XCeed your expectations?
KIA is adding a new compact crossover to its model line-up: the XCeed.
What is the 2019 Kia XCeed?
The Kia XCeed is the latest member of the Ceed range, complementing the existing Ceed hatchback, Ceed SW estate and range-topping ProCeed shooting brake (sporty, coupé-style estate).
The XCeed is similar in many ways to the regular Ceed hatch on which it’s based — all of the engines have been carried over and both models take up roughly the same amount of space on the road.
However, the XCeed differentiates itself with a 46mm raised ride height, which gives drivers a more commanding view ahead, provides a more pliant ride over harsh surfaces and makes it a little easier to slide in and out of the car.
And although it takes the Ceed name, the Korean car maker says the XCeed’s front door panels are the only bits of bodywork that are interchangeable with the standard hatchback.
Kia also claims the crossover has been developed to be class-leading in terms of its sporty driving characteristics, technology, interior space and fuel efficiency.
What engines will the 2019 Kia XCeed have?
As mentioned, all of the XCeed’s engines are identical to the ones offered in the regular Ceed hatchback. The split between petrol and diesel options is broadly similar, too: three of the five available engines will run on unleaded while the two oil burners are 113bhp and 134bhp versions of the same 1.6-litre four-cylinder motor.
The petrol line-up starts with a 1-litre three-cylinder that produces 118bhp, with the next engine in the pecking order being a 1.4-litre four-cylinder with 138bhp. Buyers who want more power than that can choose to have the range-topping 201bhp 1.6-litre four-cylinder from the Ceed GT “warm hatch”.
As standard, all of the Kia XCeed’s engines will be fitted with a six-speed manual transmission. If you’re after an automatic gearbox, it’s best to avoid the 1-litre petrol as it’s the only engine that won’t be offered with the optional seven-speed auto ‘box.
Will there be a hybrid or electric Kia XCeed?
There won’t be any hybrids available in the Kia XCeed range from launch, though the Korean car maker has said electrified versions will join the range in early 2020.
Details are still TBC but expect a mild hybrid that uses a small electric motor to assist the combustion engine, and a plug-in hybrid that will allow the XCeed to drive for commuting distances on battery power alone.
It’s likely the plug-in hybrid will use the same 1.6-litre petrol engine and electric motor combination found in the forthcoming Kia Niro PHEV crossover.
What tech will the 2019 Kia XCeed feature?
Kia claims the new XCeed will be one of the most high-tech vehicles in its class, with even the most basic models comprehensively kitted out. Buyers who opt for the entry-level trim (which, perhaps unusually, is called the ‘2’ spec) will still have access to items such as Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity, rear parking sensors, cruise control and driver aids such as a lane keep assist.
Anyone who opts for the ‘3’ spec will in addition get heated front seats, dual-zone climate control and Kia’s new UVO Connext telematics system, which allows drivers to receive real-time traffic updates, weather forecasts and nearby parking availability information. A range-topping ‘First Edition’ model adds items such as a powered tailgate, a premium stereo and a panoramic sunroof to the spec sheet.
How much interior space does the 2019 Kia XCeed have?
Kia claims the new XCeed is one of the most practical cars in its class, with 426 litres of boot space — an increase of 30 litres over the standard Ceed hatch and 51 litres more than is available in the crossover-style Ford Focus Active. Fold the XCeed’s rear seats and the cargo area expands to 1,378 litres.
How much will the 2019 Kia XCeed cost?
Prices for the Kia XCeed will begin at £20,795 for the entry-level ‘2’ grade model, with XCeed models in the ‘3’ trim starting at £23,295. The limited-run high-spec First Edition model (which only comes with the 1.4-litre petrol engine) will set buyers back £28,095, or £29,195 if they go for the optional automatic gearbox.
When will the 2019 Kia XCeed go on sale?
The Kia XCeed is available to order now. The first customer cars are scheduled to arrive in the UK in September 2019.
What are the 2019 Kia XCeed’s rivals?
The Kia XCeed’s closest rivals are other family hatchbacks that have been given an SUV-esque makeover, such as the Ford Focus Active and Volkswagen Golf Alltrack. Similarly-sized compact crossovers like the Toyota C-HR, Honda HR-V and Mazda CX-3 are also cars in the Kia XCeed’s crosshairs.
