Showing posts with label Kia. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Kia. Show all posts

Tuesday 24 May 2011

Review: 2011 Kia Optima EX

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Nobody remembers the 2010 Kia Optima, but just like that, the 2011 model may be the mainstream sedan to beat. While some consumers – the uninformed and brand-bigoted – might remain skeptical, the 2011 Kia Optima is the new benchmark. How could the Optima go from warmed-over also-ran to the segment’s latest front-runner?

The 2011 Kia Optima is at once classy and striking. There’s just enough detailing to keep it interesting without looking gaudy. Kia sent us an Optima EX with standard 17-inch alloy wheels, chrome accents on the door handles, body color mirrors and chrome exhaust tips added to the crisp bodywork. The windshield header’s echo of the “tabbed” grille is the designer’s way of saying “Hey, we thought about this.” Clean and inoffensive, there’s virtually nothing to criticize about the 2011 Optima’s styling.

The nuts and bolts of body assembly appear carefully attended to with tight panel gaps and good fit and finish all around. A stretched-out, long-wheelbase look underscores the increased size over the old Optima, and passenger volume is boosted to 102 cubic feet, near the top of its class. A 15.4-cubic-foot trunk is also larger than several of the Optima’s peers.

2011 Kia Optima EX side view2011 Kia Optima EX front view2011 Kia Optima EX rear view

On the inside, there’s not as much flair as the outside, perhaps, but the dashboard has a whiff of Saab-ness to it. French stitching, the latest way to say “I’m upscale!” appears on the padded material ringing the instrument panel and center stack. The EX trim level we tested carried the $2,000 Technology Package, which also rolls in the $2,500 Premium Package. All of this translates to a panoramic moonroof and heated and cooled power-adjustable front seats with memory for the driver’s side and heated rear seats. A metal bezel around the shifter and wood trim on the center console and door panels is there to reinforce the message of fancy tailoring. Materials, design and quality are as good or better than anyone else. You’ll have to step up to a luxury brand to find anything better.

Knobs and stalks also feel tight and precise. The big LCD screen, automobiledom’s equivalent of the ostentatious flat screen, is clear and easy to use, but we found it too bright for night driving, even at its minimum illumination setting. Fortunately, the screen is easily switched off to minimize nighttime distraction. We did occasionally hunt for buttons, and even though Bluetooth is standard, there’s no voice command system for anything other than paired phones. Uvo, developed with Microsoft, does offer some voice recognition control and communication and device integration, but it’s rolling out gradually and not offered on Optimas that have navigation like our EX.

2011 Kia Optima EX interior2011 Kia Optima EX front seats2011 Kia Optima EX navigation system2011 Kia Optima EX engine

The Optima is a mainstream sedan, so ease-of-use is a priority. The chunky leather-wrapped steering wheel is sporty-feeling, even if the electrically-assisted rack and pinion is too light and not much of a talker. With a roomy cabin, the Optima is comfortable front and rear, though the class-leading 44.5 inches of front leg room comes at the expense of rear legroom – at just 34.6 inches, it’s about three inches shy of its segment peers. Rear seat passengers are also shortchanged on shoulder room relative to the rest of the class, though rear headroom isn’t bitten by the raked C pillar like you might expect.

Kia says the 2011 Optima rides on an all-new platform. That’s true, and the underpinnings were co-developed with the all-new Hyundai Sonata. The Optima’s suspension is firmer, giving sharp responses at the expense of some ride comfort. Kia’s modus operandi of stiffly tuned standard suspensions makes even the basic 2011 Optima stern enough over bumps. It’s more supple than some of its overly-harsh siblings that bounce and clunk over bad pavement, capable of tight body control and impact absorption. The multi-link rear and MacPherson strut front setups allow the Optima to corner with discipline. Brakes are firm and easily modulated, as well. The bottom line for drivers is that the 2011 Optima follows orders eagerly and can actually be fun to drive.

2011 Kia Optima EX rear 3/4 view2011 Kia Optima EX headlight2011 Kia Optima EX side trim2011 Kia Optima EX wheel

The 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine that our EX carried is among the smoothest engines of its type. Its 200 horsepower is made possible by direct injection that also boosts efficiency. A six-speed manual transmission is available in the entry Optima LX trim and a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine can also be had, but not together. Optional turbo aside, the 2.4-liter’s no slouch on its own. Teamed with a smooth-shifting six-speed automatic, this powertrain is quiet and refined, capable of great fuel economy. The EPA estimates you’ll get 24 mpg city and 34 mpg highway. We scored a solid 27 combined.

Perhaps it’s not much of a surprise that the newest mainstream sedan appears to trump all the established players. After all, competitors like the Nissan Altima, Toyota’s evergreen Camry, Ford’s lauded Fusion and the Chevrolet Malibu that debuted to much fanfare are all years-old veterans by now. Refreshes are coming and this battle will wear on. Soon, we’ll know if the 2011 Kia Optima is forged from the right stuff to continue proving the company’s “The Power to Surprise” tagline. For the moment, it’s got what it takes, but our advice would be to not rest on its newfound success. It’s brutal out there.

[Source: autoblog]

Monday 25 April 2011

Kia Naimo EV concept ready for Seoul Motor Show debut

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The name Naimo is Korean for “square,” and the new Kia EV concept certainly fits its name. But we’re not talking about a total box, as you can see from the photo above. The B-segment vehicle, which will debut this week at the Seoul Motor Show, looks primed to take on all comers in the emerging small car segment, with interesting lines, plenty of LEDs all around and a touch of Korean heritage. The Naimo has no B-pillars, and the rear doors open up clamshell-style, an auto show staple that almost never makes it to production. The concept also features massive 20-inch wheels, which almost look comical on such a small vehicle, and the square-themed wheels are wrapped in low rolling resistance rubber.

On the inside, Kia designers were looking for a tranquil feel, with Korean oak covering the concept’s floor and adorning the trim. A transparent organic LED display instrument panel and full connectivity gives the Naimo that futuristic concept interior look without going too Buck Rogers.

And since the Naimo is a 21st century concept, an electric powertrain is a near must. The permanent magnet synchronous motor provides a maximum output of 80 kW (107 horsepower). Battery power comes from a 27 kWh lithium ion polymer twin battery pack, giving the little concept a range of 124 miles on a charge. Speaking of charges, Kia says the Naimo features a special rapid charge mode that enables the driver to charge the battery to 80 percent capacity in a scant 25 minutes. A full charge will reportedly take five and a half hours.

[Source: Kia]

PRESS RELEASE:

* Striking all-electric concept car makes world debut at Seoul Motor Show
* Naimo expresses sophistication through simplicity of design
* B-segment electric utility vehicle combines Korean heritage with high-tech innovations

Making its world premiere at the Seoul Motor Show today (Thursday), the Kia Naimo electric concept car combines Korean heritage with innovative modern features.

Taking its name from the Korean word “Ne-mo”, (pronounced ‘Neh-mo’, meaning ’square shape’), the Naimo electric crossover utility vehicle (CUV) was conceived by Kia’s international design team in Seoul, and is characterised principally by its simple lines and solid, muscular stance.

The simple overall design is accentuated by a number of striking key details, such as the wrap-around windscreen and asymmetric sunroof, and the front and rear dot-style LED head- and positioning-lamps. This mix of simple and complex is a common trait of many traditional Korean arts and crafts.

Kia’s design team also made use of innovative technology to give the car a premium feel and to ensure the car’s exterior remained uncluttered. For example, Naimo has no traditional wiper blade on the windscreen – instead it employs a high-intensity air jet at the base of the windscreen that performs an ‘air wiper’ function. Conventional door mirrors have also been replaced with miniature cameras installed in the A-pillars.

Naimo’s interior was designed to evoke a strong sense of tranquility and features hand-crafted materials throughout. Korean oak is used to trim the interior door panels and the entire interior floor, Korean “Han-ji” paper is used for the head lining. Alongside these traditional elements sit modern features such as a transparent organic light emitting diode display instrument panel and full connectivity.

“Naimo is a perfect balance of innovation, high-tech and Korean tradition. It was heavily inspired by the purity and grace of traditional Korean arts and crafts, but combines this with cutting edge technologies to deliver a truly premium experience,” commented Kia Motors’ Chief Design Officer, Peter Schreyer.

The third electric vehicle design to be unveiled by Kia Motors Corporation in a year, the 3.9-metre long Naimo concept explores the practicalities of introducing a zero-emissions, five-door, four-seater city car into a future niche market.

Measuring 3,890 mm in length, the Naimo’s generous wheelbase, width and height (2,647, 1,844 and 1,589 mm respectively) – plus the short overhangs which place a wheel at each corner – ensure that the cabin provides exceptional head, leg and shoulder room for the occupants.

The concept car has no B-pillars and features rear-hinged rear doors to maximise easy access to the cabin, and a three-way split opening boot-lid, allows versatile access to the load bay for varying luggage sizes.

Power comes from a Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor with a maximum output of 80 kW (109 ps) and maximum torque of 280 Nm, enabling Naimo to reach a top speed of 150 kph (93 mph).

A twin-pack 27 kWh battery is located under the boot floor and uses innovative Lithium Ion Polymer technology that offers numerous advantages over other battery types. Equipped with this battery, Naimo provides a driving range of 200 km (124 miles) on a single charge. To enhance range, the showcar is fitted with special low-drag 20-inch diameter alloy wheels.

Under the quick recharging cycle (50 kW) the Naimo’s battery can be recharged to 80 percent of its capacity within 25 minutes. Under the normal cycle (3.3 kW), 100 percent power is attained after five and a half hours.

Naimo will join Kia’s growing test fleet of hybrid, electric and fuel-cell vehicles being extensively driven in widely varying conditions to develop future production models with zero or significantly reduced emissions.

Friday 8 October 2010

Paris 2010: Kia Pop Concept is a "wild atom" looking for three

Kia Pop Concept

The Kia Pop Concept is a slick little wedge of silver that the company calls "a striking vision of future urban electric transport" meant "to act as a loose nucleus, a wild atom." In case you're wondering about the styling, you can't compare it to anything you might see today. Kia design chief Peter Schreyer says it "looks even further into the future" than even the next generation of vehicles, which means we can look forward to guppy faces and oblong windows.

The face is actually referred to as "Kia's trademark 'tiger nose,'" and the sweeping, uninterrupted glass above it is a tidy feature. The three-person, "non-automotive" seating is meant to provide perfect vision for the driver and passengers, with a swoopy front bench curved to allow a third seat set at an oblique angle in the rear corner.

The future theme goes minimalist with just one button in the cabin and everything else controlled by the touch screens on the Transparent Organic LED displays. LIthium polymer gel batteries keep the juice flowing throughout, pumping atoms to a 50-kW electric motor good for a 100-mile range and a healthy top speed of 87 miles per hour.

Friday 18 September 2009

Frankfurt 2009: Kia Venga

Kia Venga

If you're going to ape the design of another automaker's product, it's best to choose one that's attractive. Therefore, we give Kia kudo points for making its Venga look something like a smoothed-over Ford Fiesta, a car we've gone on record multiple times as admiring. In any case, the Kia Venga is a somewhat derivative but all-in-all attractive take on the single-box hatchback bodystyle.

If you're hoping to put a Venga in your driveway and you live in the United States, sorry to burst your bubble. While anything is possible, Kia has yet to give any indication that the Venga is headed Stateside. That being the case, feel free to gaze longingly at our gallery of live shots below. If you happen to live in Europe, all you need to do is wait a few months as the Venga is set to hit the showroom floor later this year.

PRESS RELEASE

NEW KIA VENGA

1. INTRODUCTION

All-new Kia Venga makes global debut at Frankfurt Show

Kia's all-new, uniquely spacious and dynamic B-segment MPV makes its global debut at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show. Called 'Venga', the new model will be manufactured in Europe, and will go on sale across Europe later this year – backed by two warranties: Kia's unique '7-Years (drivetrain) / 5-Years (whole car) / 150,000 km' warranty, plus a 10-Year anti-corrosion warranty.

The new production model, which is closely related to the stunning Kia No3 concept car that made its debut at the Geneva Show earlier this year to worldwide acclaim, brings stylish good looks and a fun driving experience to an otherwise 'humdrum' vehicle segment.

"Venga will certainly deliver all the practicality and versatility that a European family could require. It will also provide them with the most stylish transport this segment has ever seen," observes Benny Oeyen, Director Marketing & Product Planning, Kia Motors Europe. "On the road, its performance and agility will surpass the class norm. Venga will ensure that rewarding, fun-to-drive motoring is now available to drivers whose lifestyles demand an MPV."

The 'Venga' name has an attractive and lively sound that suits Kia's latest family car. It is derived from Spanish and has a modern feel that fits well with active urban lifestyles. It echoes Kia's core brand value – the 'Power to Surprise'.

Designed, engineered and manufactured in Europe, the 4,068 mm long Kia Venga features an unusually long wheelbase for its class (2,615 mm) – and a 1600 mm high roofline to maximise cabin space. Skilful packaging ensures that the Venga redefines its MPV category by offering levels of interior space typical of a larger C-segment vehicle, but within a B-segment footprint.

"Venga is a tremendously exciting new model for us which will build on the success of the Kia cee'd and boost the on-going process of changing European consumers' perceptions of our brand," continues Oeyen.

"The B-segment MPV is still a 'young' concept, and although demand for this type of vehicle shrank during the last two years, we believe that two main factors will reverse that trend. Firstly, the economic climate will encourage consumers to down-size. Secondly, exciting new products from several manufacturers will re-ignite interest in the whole segment and with New Venga, Kia will be positioned to maximise its sales growth and sector share," adds Oeyen.

Every engine in the Venga line-up will be available with Kia's fuel-stretching Start/Stop (ISG) technology and will comply with Euro 5 emission standards. Start/Stop (ISG) equipped models will have a CO2 rating from just 117 g/km (1.4-litre U2 engine).

Venga will be marketed exclusively in Europe where consumers will be offered a choice of two 1.4-litre and 1.6-litre gasoline and diesel engines, generating between 75 and 128 ps. Every version of Venga will be equipped with a sliding 60/40 split rear seat that also folds flat into the floor to create a spacious cargo bay. Depending on model, an optional tilt-&-slide, all-glass panoramic sunroof will be available to flood the cabin with natural light.

"Venga is going to inject much-needed excitement into the B-segment. It is such a great looking, great driving car that even people who don't actually need an MPV-style vehicle, will buy one!" concludes Oeyen.

2. STYLING & DESIGN

Kia brings dynamic and dramatic design to small MPV sector

New Kia Venga will offer consumers a winning combination of style and practicality when it goes on sale across Europe at the turn of this year. Bearing many of the striking design elements and detail touches that drew wide media and public acclaim to the No3 concept car at the 2009 Geneva Motor Show, Venga brings a sensational 'good looks' to a segment of the market previously characterised by 'dull but worthy' vehicles.

Indeed, the similarities between the No3 concept car and the production-ready Venga making its debut at Frankfurt go surprisingly deep. Apart from the adoption of a more conventional windscreen and roof design, all metal panels are common between the two models, and only minor changes have been made to turn the design concept into a production reality.

"B-segment MPVs have traditionally been a class of vehicle purchased out of necessity – they are cars of function and practicality," explains Kia Chief Design Officer, Peter Schreyer. "Now all that is about to change. With New Venga we have designed a car that will fulfil European consumers' practical requirements, while also being genuinely desirable and fun to drive. Venga is going to re-ignite interest among consumers in B-segment MPVs, by setting new standards for the class!"

Viewed from any direction, Venga appears to get progressively wider as the eye is drawn from top to bottom, thanks to the car's long wheelbase and wide track – giving it a stable, purposeful, sporty stance. All of the car's creases, shapes and outlines – from the sleek headlamp housings, through wedge-shaped double shoulder creases and deep swage lines on the doors, to the 'kick-up' rear passenger windows – get progressively higher as they flow from front to rear, making Venga appear poised and ready for action, even when parked.

Doing away with the boxy 'mini-van' profile typically associated with B-segment MPVs, New Venga adopts a sleeker, racier profile. Indeed, Venga's slippery form achieves a class-best figure for aerodynamic drag with a Cd of just 0.31 – reducing fuel consumption, emissions output and wind noise – as well as satisfying numerous aesthetic criteria.

Short overhangs front and rear combine with the new model's broad stance and its 'smiling' lower air intake to enhance the overall feeling of 'eagerness' to get moving. The bold, concave swage lines along the flanks accentuate Venga's pronounced shoulder lines and muscular wheel arches, to give the car a svelte, but athletic appearance.

When New Venga is viewed in profile, the extended, four-panel glasshouse reaches beyond front and rear doors to improve driver visibility and to apparently 'stretch' the car's outline. At both front and rear, modern, angular light clusters draw the viewers' eyes sharply in towards the middle of the car.

The treatment of glass surfaces is especially important in the creation of Venga and buyers can accentuate this aspect of the MPV by specifying the optional, all-glass, two-piece sliding panoramic sunroof. It covers almost the entire roof area, bringing light to the interior to add to the feeling of spaciousness, and making the car seem sleeker by disguising the windscreen header rail and seeming to draw the roof line back.

Venga will be marketed exclusively in Europe with a choice of 10 exterior paint colours, two of them – Byte Blue and Caramel Gold – unique to the new model.

Comparison of Kia vehicles / Exterior dimensions (mm)
Length Wheelbase Width Height
Kia Venga 4068 2615 1765 1600

Kia Soul 4105 2550 1785 1610
Kia cee'd 5-door 4260 2650 1790 1480
Kia Sportage 4350 2630 1840 1730

3. COMFORT & CONVENIENCE

Generously equipped for maximum comfort and choice

Kia is confident that when customers first experience the new Kia Venga MPV they will be deeply impressed by much more than its 'uniquely spacious' interior. The new model's style, colours, execution, quality, materials, fit and finish will delight existing Kia owners and demonstrate to those unfamiliar with the brand Kia's continuing 'Power to Surprise'.

Facing the New Venga driver is a new-style four-spoke steering wheel, which is becoming a Kia trademark feature. It can be adjusted for height and reach and features alloy-finish lower spokes and remote control switches on both left and right spokes. Another element of Kia's developing design DNA – the 'three-cylinder' instrument cluster – can be viewed through the Venga's wheel.

While the Venga's standard interior colour scheme is Ebony Black or Ash Brown, with a Metallic Silver central facia, high-gloss Beige, Black and Lime Green trim packs will be available as either standard or as an option on the TX model.

The radio/CD player is all-new and features a circular central 'master' control. The centre-top, red-on-black information panel has high readability thanks to its Dot Matrix presentation and is able to display information about the audio system, external temperature, time, day and date.

The floor console houses an oddments tray (with USB and AUX iPod®* connections), gear selector and hand-brake lever, twin cup-holders and large-capacity storage box.
*iPod is a registered trademark of Apple, Inc.

Three trim levels and a wide range of options

Kia Venga will be available in three trim levels (LX, EX and TX) from launch, offering consumers a good breadth of choice, plus a selection of individual options.

Following the best Kia tradition, even in 'base' LX specification Venga is fitted as standard with many equipment options only available at extra cost on competitor vehicles. The well-appointed interior features a height adjustable driver's seat, while in the rear, the 60/40 split rear seat has a folding centre armrest and a sliding and a 'fold & dive' facility to offer a flexible load area. Electric front windows, four audio speakers and rear seat ventilation ducts are also included as standard.

Venga EX trim adds a high-specification radio/CD audio system with six speakers (including two 'tweeter' speakers), plus CD, MP3 and AUX input capabilities. Comfort is enhanced by the addition of manual air conditioning, and convenience is boosted by keyless entry and a fold-away key.

Top level TX trim for Venga brings a number of design flourishes to Venga, including 16 inch diameter alloy wheels, front fog lamps, electric folding door mirrors with side repeater and electric rear windows. Inside, there is a leather steering wheel, with wheel-mounted audio equipment remote controls, cruise control and speed limiter, high-gloss centre stack, leather/cloth interior upholstery and driver's seat armrest.

In addition to the generous standard specification, buyers will also be able to personalise their car by choosing equipment from an extensive list of options.

The most striking of these options is the all-glass panoramic sunroof. This two-piece tilt 'n' slide sunroof covers almost the entire top of the car, bringing light and a feeling of heightened spaciousness to the entire cabin. Satellite Navigation, voice activated Bluetooth connectivity and a variety of audio systems are among the options – as are fully automatic air-conditioning, and heated front seats.

Stylish alloy wheels, up to 17 inch in diameter and darkened privacy glass can be specified to further enhance New Venga's exterior appearance. In addition, models can be ordered with keyless entry and engine start/stop button, electric heated and folding outside mirrors, and chrome finish exterior door handles.

An optional tyre pressure monitoring system, reverse parking sensors and a reversing camera with interior mirror display screen, are also available for additional driver peace-of-mind.

4. PRACTICALITY & STORAGE

Kia's B-segment MPV is genuinely 'uniquely spacious'

In creating Venga, Kia's design team worked hard to create a package that offers European consumers generous interior space within a modest overall foot-print – without compromising the car's sensuous exterior lines or driving dynamics.

"From the very start of the design process, Venga needed to be a car that could tick multiple boxes on consumer wish lists" explains Chief Design Officer Peter Schreyer. "A spacious and flexible interior is a 'must-have' for many car buyers, and Venga meets this requirement while also featuring Kia's striking design language, proving that style and practicality need not be mutually-exclusive."

The 4,068 mm long Venga has an unusually long (2,615 mm) wheelbase for its class, plus a 1600 mm high roofline and class-best 1,765 mm width, to offer interior space comparable to that found in C-segment cars – but within a footprint typical of a B-segment vehicle.

This clever packaging ensures Venga beats competitor brand vehicles for space in many key interior measurements, including front and rear legroom and hip room, as well as luggage space. Venga also offers competitive front and rear headroom, at 1,020 mm and 980 mm respectively.

Interior Dimensions (mm)
Headroom Front 1020 Rear 980
Legroom Front 1080* Rear 901*
Shoulder room Front 1388 Rear 1367
Hip room Front 1345* Rear 1328*
* Denotes 'best-in-class' figure

Flexible solutions for people and cargo transportation
In addition to Venga's clever interior packaging, which ensures it challenges or beats competitor vehicles for all interior dimensions, the new Kia model features a host of innovative solutions to maximise cabin space.

Should owners require more than the 440 litres of boot space provided in the car's standard arrangement with all seats up, Venga offers a number of options to expand luggage capacity.

Firstly, a two-tier boot space floor means that owners have the option of using a lower level floor to quickly and easily increase the luggage compartment's height by 163 mm, extending total volume to 570 litres. The clever design allows delicate, unstable items (such as potted plants or glass bottles) to be transported safely and securely in the boot area, by simply using the lower floor.

For carrying bulkier items, Venga's 60/40 split rear seats can also slide forward individually by up to 130 mm, or, if more space is required, the rear seats feature split 'Fold & Dive' functionality. This useful feature creates a completely flat floor for the rear load area – without the need to adjust or remove the seat headrests.

With both rear seats folded flat, Venga boasts a voluminous 1552 mm long cargo area, with a total capacity of 1,253 litres when loaded to the roof.

Comparions of Kia vehicles / Interior dimensions (mm)
The new Kia Venga MPV offers the following interior space – other Kia models are shown for comparison:
Head room Leg room Shoulder room
F / R F / R F /R

Kia Venga 1020 / 980 1080 / 901 1384 / 1364
Kia Soul 1020 / 1005 1070 / 990 1403 / 1400
Kia cee'd 5-dr 1020 / 980 1105 / 900 1410 / 1385
Kia Sportage 1034 / 1000 1062 / 955 1440 / 1430

Luggage capacity (litres)
Rear seats upright Rear seats folded

Kia Venga 440 / 570 1253
Kia Soul 340 570
Kia cee'd 5-dr 340 1300
Kia Sportage 667 1886

5. ENGINES

128 to 75 ps power range and choice of four power plants

The all-new Kia Venga will be available at launch with a choice of two petrol and two diesel engines, mated to a choice of manual or automatic transmissions. All powertrain options will deliver lively, 'fun-to-drive' performance in keeping with Venga's persona, while using the very latest technologies to minimise fuel consumption and exhaust emissions. In EU nations, all engines will comply with Euro 5 standards.

Diesel power is expected to be extremely popular and New Venga will be available with Kia's all-new 'U2' common-rail diesel engine, which has been designed and engineered in Germany and will be manufactured in Slovakia – especially for use in this important Kia newcomer and in the New cee'd.

Fitted with either a Waste Gate Turbocharger (WGT) or Variable Geometry Turbocharger (VGT) for smooth power delivery across the entire rev range, this new engine is available in two displacements, each tuned to give two power outputs. The 1.4-litre version produces either 90 or 75 ps, and the 1.6-litre unit generates 128 or 115 ps – depending on the market requirements.

The U2 engine is already available with the New cee'd in 1.6-litre guise, but the 1.4-litre engine will make its debut in Venga. Both these U2 engine are cleaner, quieter and more fuel-efficient than their 'U1' forebear, while still ensuring a responsive and lively performance.

U2 uses high pressure common rail injection with a variable swirl control system (up to five injections per cycle), electronically-controlled Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR), a Waste Gate Turbocharger (WGT) or variable geometry turbocharger (VGT), and a Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) to ensure it can meet Euro 5 emissions regulations.

To achieve optimum driveability, U2 has been developed to deliver best-in-class power and torque outputs over a broad rev range. Crucially, more than 90% of the maximum torque is available from just 1,500 rpm, guaranteeing strong and smooth acceleration almost from idle.

Maximum power is 128 ps at 4,000 rpm and maximum torque of 255 Nm is delivered across a 1,900 to 2,750 rpm rev-band.

NVH is well controlled and U2 engine noise has been reduced by 1.1% (to 92 dB at 4,000 rpm) compared to U1. Thanks to the fitment of a chain-driven timing system, owners will benefit from extended (to 30,000 km or one year) service intervals.

Fitted in New Venga, the 1.4-litre U2 with Start/Stop (ISG) and the new six-speed manual gearbox emits just 117 g/km of CO2. This takes Venga below the crucial 120g/km threshold applicable for taxation purposes across European countries, meaning many owners will be able to enjoy paying reduced or no vehicle taxation, and free parking or other benefits, in some markets.

For customers who prefer a gasoline engine, Venga will also be available with a choice of 1.6 or 1.4-litre engines – popular and well proven units from Kia's Gamma family. The 1.4-litre version produces 90 ps with a useful 137 Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm.

The larger capacity engine is similar to the unit used in Kia Soul and generates a highly competitive 125 ps. As standard it is mated to the 5-speed manual gearbox, and this is the only Venga engine also available with a four-speed automatic transmission.

Fuel-stretching technology across the range

In a ground-breaking first for its segment, New Venga will offer Kia's fuel-stretching Start/Stop (ISG) system – which automatically switches off and then restarts the engine in congested city driving – with every engine, both gasoline and diesel, in the Venga line-up.

Working in conjunction with other technologies as part of Kia's 'EcoDynamics' package, Start/Stop (ISG) helps reduce fuel consumption and tailpipe emissions, enabling certain Venga models to drop below the 120 grams per kilometre carbon dioxide output threshold applicable for taxation purposes in many European markets.

Other innovative technologies fitted to Venga as part of the 'EcoDynamics' range include a power-saving alternator management system, a gear-shift up/down indicator to encourage an economical driving style and low-rolling resistance tyres for cars fitted with 15- and 16-inch wheels.

6. TRANSMISSIONS

Fuel-stretching six-speed manual gearboxes for many models

Buyers debating which New Kia Venga to purchase will find they have a choice of either five- or six-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmissions. A manual gearbox is fitted as standard on all models, with the automatic available as an extra cost option on the 1.6 gasoline unit.

An all-new six-speed manual gearbox is fitted as standard on three of the four Venga models powered by the new U2 diesel engine. Made in Europe, the new transmission is lighter, has taller gearing, uses low-viscosity oil and provides a marked improvement in gear change 'feel' for a more rewarding driving experience.

Both the five-speed and six-speed manual transmissions incorporate several innovations, including triple axis gear train and multiple-cone synchroniser (on first and second gears), for faster, smoother gear shifts.

The automatic transmission for Venga is a four-speed gearbox similar to the unit fitted in the European-made cee'd. It features an electronic controller, which monitors a range of parameters including acceleration, deceleration, engine speed and road speed, ensuring safe gear changes with excellent shift quality, and also adapts the transmission's characteristics to suit an individual's driving style.

New Kia Venga Powertrains
Type Capacity Power Torque Transmission
Diesel
1.6 128 ps 260 Nm 6-sp
1.6* 115 ps 260 Nm 6-sp
1.4 90 ps 220 Nm 6-sp
1.4* 75 ps 220 Nm 5-sp
Gasoline
1.6 125 ps 156 Nm 5-sp / 4-sp Auto
1.4 90 ps 137 Nm 5-sp

*Lower power engines available to meet local taxation requirements in some markets. Please check final specification with your local PR representative.

7. SUSPENSION & RUNNING GEAR

Fine-tuned for a 'great drive' on European roads

The unusually long 2,615 mm wheelbase and wide track of the new Kia Venga MPV have inherent benefits for the car's ride and handling. New Venga is fitted with a fully independent front and twist-beam rear suspension system, similar to the system used in the Kia Soul, designed to deliver responsive handling and a supple ride.

Kia will be producing the Venga with a single suspension set-up engineered to achieve an excellent ride/handling balance on the widest variety of European roads – with two different dampers to suit the different weights of the diesel and gasoline cars.

At the front, mounted on the same sub-frame that supports the engine and transmission, the MacPherson Struts have co-axial coil springs, offset for smooth operation, together with offset kingpin geometry and a 4 degree castor angle, designed to provide optimal handling stability and improved ride, while allowing the driver to steer and manoeuvre Venga with minimal effort.

The front suspension geometry ensures minimal camber and castor angle changes for good steering stability under all conditions, and the anti-roll bar is mounted directly onto the shock absorber to maximise its effectiveness.

At the rear, the Venga suspension is also sub-frame mounted and employs a transverse torsion beam axle with trailing arms, designed to deliver a smooth ride and to ensure the minimum intrusion into the trunk space. The coil springs and dampers are mounted separately to ensure smooth operation and minimal intrusion into the cabin/trunk space. In addition, 'third generation' hub bearings improve durability and urethane bump stops improve refinement. To optimise use of space, the rear anti-roll stabiliser bar is mounted inside the torsion beam.

Nitrogen gas-filled shock absorbers, tuned to best suit specific market requirements, are standard fit for both the front and rear suspension systems for optimal damping performance and body control.

Electric power steering saves fuel

To save fuel and enable speed-sensitive control of the power steering – New Venga has Kia's latest Motor Driven Power Steering System (MDPS). With this new system, parking manoeuvres and town driving are easier, while high speed handling is more precise. The gearing ratio of the steering (11.8:1) remains the same for all wheel and tyre variants, and is fine-tuned to deliver good 'feel' to the driver under all driving conditions.

The power-assisted rack and pinion system requires just 2.77 turns of the steering wheel lock-to-lock. The Venga's small turning circle – just 5.21 metres (kerb-to-kerb) – gives responsive, agile handling in city driving situations.

Kia's MDPS system in the Venga gives a fuel saving of 3% compared to conventional hydraulic assistance.

Powerful stopping with four discs plus ABS
Every New Venga will be equipped with a power-assisted all-disc braking system which makes maximum use of the space available within the standard 15-inch diameter steel wheels. Ventilated front discs (280 mm diameter) and solid rear discs (258 mm) deliver secure and stable braking performance together with consistent pedal feel. The ESC system is equipped with a hydraulic booster which provides Emergency Brake Assistance (EBA) delivering maximum braking power when sensors detect that the driver is executing an emergency stop.

A four-channel, four-sensor, ABS anti-lock braking system is fitted as standard. The system incorporates an Electronic Brake-force Distributor (EBD), helping to distribute braking force evenly between front and rear wheels. The EBD is able to adapt to individual wheel grip conditions, adding a further degree of control and stability. The parking brake is a mechanical unit operating on both rear wheels.

Three-way choice of wheels and tyres
New Venga cars will come with a choice of three wheel and tyre combinations. Depending on the model variants chosen by each market, the LX and EX models will be fitted with 15-inch diameter steel wheels as standard, with full-size 5-spoke moulded plastic trims and 195/65 R15 tyres.

The range-topping TX variant will feature 16-inch 'no flange' alloy wheels with 205/55 R16 tyres. As an option, larger diameter 17-inch alloy wheels, also a 5-spoke design, with 205/50 R17 tyres will be available.

All Venga derivatives come with a Mobility Kit to fix punctured tyres and the option of a steel space-saver spare wheel and temporary tyre – located in the trunk floor well.

8. SAFETY

Robust bodyshell, ESC and six airbags for maximum protection

Designed, engineered and manufactured in Europe, the new Kia Venga uses the latest active and passive safety technologies to ensure maximum protection for its occupants. When it goes on sale across Europe, Kia confidently anticipate that Venga will become company's fourth consecutive Kia model to attain the maximum 5-Star Euro NCAP crash safety rating – placing it among the safest cars in its MPV class.

While developing the all-new Kia Venga MPV, company engineers worked hard to ensure that the latest Kia is one of the safest cars on the market – fully satisfying the ever-increasing consumer expectations of modern car design.

Increased 'Active' safety includes ESC availability

Every Venga will be fully equipped to avoid potential accident situations and handle the hazards of everyday motoring. Electronic Stability Control (ESC) is increasingly a 'proven technology' in accident avoidance and every Venga will feature this system, either as standard or as a factory-fitted option – depending on each market.

This system comes together with all-speed Traction Control System (TCS) and with emergency Brake Assistance System (BAS). ESC is fully automatic and operates at all times, while offering a multitude of benefits. It counters excess oversteer and understeer, improving stability and restoring directional control.

All Venga models will have a powerful all-disc braking system featuring ABS anti-lock with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD).

Additional 'active safety' options

The latest Kia will be available with several options which will boost active safety even further. A rear parking assist system, with four bumper-mounted sensors, enhances safety during low-speed parking manoeuvres. A new Kia Reversing Camera mounted just below the hatchback's handle has a 130 degree wide-angle lens and transmits images to a 3.5-inch LCD display panel set within the cabin's auto-dimming rear view mirror.

A Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) will also be available – alerting the driver to 'low pressure' if any tyre suffers a pressure drop of more than 25 %.

Maximum 'passive safety' for maximum protection

Should a collision be unavoidable, new Kia Venga is engineered to safeguard the occupants with a range of passive safety measures as standard – starting with a robust all-steel bodyshell.

State-of-the-art computer-aided design was employed by Kia engineers, to create the Venga MPV bodyshell structure. Featuring high-strength steel in key areas, the bodyshell is designed to offer occupants good protection in front, side, rear and roll-over accidents.

Every Venga sold in Europe will be available with an integrated Safety Restraint System (SRS) consisting of dual front airbags, front side and full-length curtain airbags (to protect the occupants in both seat rows), height-adjustable front seatbelts with pretensioners and belt load-limiters, plus three 3-point seat belts for rear seat occupants. In addition, 'active' front seat head restraints are fitted as standard in all EU countries as well as Iceland, Norway and Switzerland or as an option in other countries.

The passenger side front airbag has an 'off' switch so it can be deactivated if small children in a safety-seat occupy that position in the car. All Venga models will be fitted with two ISOFIX anchor points and Top Tether anchorages in the outside positions of the rear seat for the attachment of appropriate child safety seats and restraints.

9. TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

New Kia Venga

Body & Chassis
Uniquely spacious, five-seater MPV. All-steel unitary construction bodyshell. Choice of four transversely-mounted gasoline and diesel engines driving the front wheels via a five-speed, or six-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission (depending on model). Choice of three equipment levels (LX, EX and TX) and 10 exterior colours (depending on market).

Engines (availability may vary by individual markets)

Diesel Engines
1.4 CRDi 90 ps (75 ps low-power version)
Name 'U2'
Type DOHC, four-cylinder in line, with WGT
Capacity 1.4-litres, 1,396 cc
Max power 90 ps (66.2 kW) @ 4000 rpm
Max torque 220 Nm (22.5 kg.m) @ 1750-2750 rpm
Emissions class Euro Stage 5

1.6 CRDi 128 ps (115 ps low-power version)
Name 'U2'
Type DOHC, four-cylinder in line, with VGT
Capacity 1.6-litres, 1582 cc
Max power 128 ps (94 kW) @ 4000 rpm
Max torque 260 Nm (26.5 kg.m) @ 1900-to-2750 rpm
Emissions class Euro Stage 5

Gasoline Engines
1.4-litre 90 ps
Name 'Gamma'
Type DOHC, four-cylinder in line, with CVVT
Capacity 1.4-litres, 1396 cc
Max power 90 ps (66.2 kW) @ 6000 rpm
Max torque 137 Nm (14.0 kg.m) @ 4000 rpm
Emissions class Euro Stage 5

1.6-litre 125 ps
Name 'Gamma'
Type DOHC, four-cylinder in line, with CVVT
Capacity 1.6-litres, 1591 cc
Max power 125 ps (91.9 kW) @ 6300 rpm
Max torque 156 Nm (15.9 kg.m) @ 4200 rpm
Emissions class Euro Stage 5
*Lower power versions available in some markets to meet local taxation regulations

Transmissions
1.6 Diesel 1.4 Diesel

Manual 6-sp 6-sp (5-sp with 75 ps engine)
Automatic ----- -----
1.6 Gasoline 1.4 Gasoline
Manual 5-sp 5-sp
Automatic 4-sp -----

Suspension
Front Fully independent by subframe-mounted MacPherson struts, with coil springs and gas-filled shock absorbers. Anti-roll stabiliser bar.
Rear Semi-independent transverse twist-beam, with trailing arms, coil springs and gas-filled shock absorbers. Anti-roll stabiliser bar.
Steering
Type MDPS electric power-assisted rack and pinion
Ratio 11.8:1
Gearing 2.77 turns lock-to-lock
Turning circle 5.21 metres (kerb to kerb)
Steering wheel 370 mm diameter
Wheel adjustment Tilt, up/down by total of 40 mm (20 mm up/20 mm down)
Telescopic, in/out by total of 40 mm (20 mm in/20 mm out)

Brakes
Power 10 inch single booster
Front 280 x 26 mm ventilated discs
Rear 262 x 10 mm solid discs
ABS 4-Channel anti-lock system with EBD (all models)

Wheels & Tyres
Standard (LX) 15 x 6.0J steel with 195/65 R15 tyres
(EX) 15 x 6.0J steel with 195/65 R15 tyres
(TX) 16 x 6.0J alloy with 205/55 R16 tyres
Optional (EX) 16 x 6.0J alloy with 205/55 R16 tyres
(EX/TX) 17 x 6.5J alloy with 205/50 R17 tyres
Spare Tyre Mobility Kit (standard)
Temporary steel wheel & tyre (optional)

DIMENSIONS (mm)
Exterior
Overall length 4068 Overall width* 1765
Overall height 1600 Wheelbase 2615
Front overhang 785 Rear overhang 668
*excluding door mirrors

Interior, Front / Rear
Headroom 1020 980
Legroom 1080 901
Shoulder room 1388 1367

Capacities (all models)
Fuel tank 48 litres
Luggage 440 litres (570 using under-floor space)
Rear seats folded 1486 litres

Performance & Fuel Economy (litres/100 km) MANUAL MODELS
1.6 Diesel 1.4 Diesel
Top speed / kph 182 167
0-to-130 kph / sec 20.0 26.0
Combined cycle 4.9 4.7
CO2 g/km 129 (119 w/ Eco Pack) 124 (117 w/ Eco Pack)

1.6 Gasoline 1.4 Gasoline
Top speed / kph 182 168
0-to-130 kph / sec 18.6 23.9
Combined cycle 6.7 6.2
CO2 g/km 155 147

Frankfurt 2009: Kia c'eed

F1 Live Streaming


The Kia c'eed has come in for a voluminous number of changes, all of which are explained in the massively massive press release after the jump. The short of it is a restyled exterior, new interior elements, new mechanical structures such as a revised subframe for better NVH performance, the addition of hill-assist, a new diesel engine among the 5-engine range... see what we mean? This is not the Kia c'eed you knew...

What you really need to know about the new c'eed is that it takes a rightful place among the lead group of entry-level hatches in Europe. Sometimes you get in a cheap car and it looks cheap and feels cheap. That isn't the Kia c'eed – a little car that gives you a 6-speed manual to make the most of what power it offers. As has been the case with Hyundai and Kia lately, this one's probably going to be another good one.

PRESS RELEASE

NEW KIA CEE'D

1. INTRODUCTION

'New-look' for best-selling Kia cee'd range

Created especially for European consumers, the original Kia cee'd marked a major turning point in Kia's history. It was the start of a new era, the first-ever Kia designed and produced in Europe. Manufactured in an all-new factory, it introduced a qualitative revolution for the brand as the highest standards of engineering and European-style aesthetics were applied to every aspect of its design.

Unquestionably, the Kia cee'd family, which grew to encompass wagon and coupe (pro_cee'd) body styles, has proved to be the brand's strongest-ever contender for top C-segment honours. It offered consumers an unprecedented choice of engines, body styles, exterior colours, interior trims and options. It was backed by an industry-leading, 7-Year Kia Warranty – the best warranty ever offered by any car manufacturer, on any vehicle marketed in Europe.

Now, with more than 230,000 examples sold across Western Europe, it is time for Kia to launch the 'new-look' cee'd. The brand's top-selling model in Europe has been thoroughly re-engineered and restyled under the direction of Chief Design Officer, Peter Schreyer, to feature the latest version of the company's signature grille – an evolving expression of the brand's design DNA – and to adopt a more distinctive road presence.

Comprehensively updated, the new Kia cee'd range delivers a host of customer benefits, with numerous exterior and interior design refinements and upgraded standard equipment. Kia is confident that these significant enhancements will enable new cee'd to capture an even higher share of the C-segment market in Europe next year.

Technical innovations being introduced with new cee'd enhance the driving experience while also significantly reducing fuel consumption and cutting CO2 emissions to a low of 110 g/km (estimated) and by an average of 5% across the cee'd line-up.

Fuel-stretching Start/Stop (ISG) technology is now available on both gasoline and diesel engines for the first time, a hill-holder function for the ESC is introduced and brighter projection-style headlamps are fitted. The suspension has been fine-tuned for a more comfortable ride, without any loss of agility and the steering response has been sharpened.

The existing range of five engines, which includes 1.4, 1.6 and 2.0-litre CVVT gasoline engines and 1.6 and 2.0-litre CRDi diesel engines, is carried over. But the 1.6-litre diesel is an all-new, super-efficient engine from the 'U2' family and is matched to a new six-speed manual transmission. In some countries lower-power versions of the diesel and gasoline engines will be available to suit local taxation regulations.

Kia's New cee'd range will reach Kia dealer showrooms all across Europe during September 2009. The range offers three body styles, five engines, three trim/equipment levels (LX, EX and TX), will be available in a choice of 12 distinctive exterior finishes – including five new colours.

2. STYLING & DESIGN

Restyled with Kia's evolving DNA for a stronger presence

The 'new look' Kia cee'd has been thoroughly restyled in order to keep the brand's best-selling model in Europe 'fresh' and maintain its strong appeal to consumers.

Working under the direction of Chief Design Officer, Peter Schreyer, Kia's European design team have made a number of changes to the exterior of the five-door hatchback and wagon models, to give both cars a more distinctive road presence while incorporating the company's evolving design DNA and retaining the original cee'd family styling connection.

Briefed to enhance the original models' 'sporty and strong' appearance, the cee'd team at Kia's Frankfurt-based Design Centre Europe, headed by Chief Designer, Gregory Guillaume, set out to make the new model's 'face' appear more striking and impactful, while refreshing the whole car. Ultimately, the only new metal panels are a new bonnet and new front wings on models where the repeat turn indicators are moved to the door mirrors.

New look cee'd adopts the company's signature grille, also featured (with small variations), on the all-new Sorento SUV and all-new Venga MPV being unveiled at the Frankfurt Show.

On New cee'd, the grille stretches the full width between the front headlights, which combined with the new trapezoidal lower air intake and completely redesigned lower front bumper, makes the car seem wider, lower and more purposeful. Completing the changes at the front end are redesigned, projection-type head lamps and square fog lamps which give a more high-tech and luxurious feel.

The grille's finish varies with different trim/equipment levels as a way of visually differentiating between models. Most models feature an all-chrome edge to the grille, while models with the Sport Pack will have a Piano Black high-gloss edge with a contrasting chrome strip to the grille's inner edge.

Overall length of New cee'd is increased by 25 mm on the hatchback and 20 mm on the wagon. The new front bumper and grille (common to both models), extends the nose by 20 mm, while at the rear the hatchback features an all-new bumper which adds 5 mm to the rear overhang. The hatchback's bumper also features new shape lower reflectors and this body style has new LED-look rear lamp clusters with a subtly revised shape. The profile of the cluster's top and side is unchanged, but the lower edge is raised (compared to the original cee'd) and consequently, the bumper is slightly deeper. On the wagon, the shape of the rear clusters is unchanged, but the lamps incorporate the new LED-look.

The profile of New cee'd appears sleeker, thanks to the extended nose, new, lower mounted door mirrors, a range of new-style 16- and 17-inch alloy wheels.

Sport Pack models of the hatchback are fitted with the Piano Black high-gloss front grille, plus a deeper central front air intake (also in Piano Black), black headlamp bezels and, at the rear on the hatchback, a black 'venturi-style' panel set into the bumper.

As with the original model, the final appearance of European-designed New cee'd was fine-tuned in Kia's world-class full-size aero-acoustic wind tunnel at the Namyang R&D Centre in Korea. The new model's aerodynamic drag figure is Cd 0.33 (bettering the VW Golf and Ford Focus) while its lift coefficient figure (Cl 0.01) is a class-best result that enhances vehicle stability at high speeds.

For New cee'd, five new exterior colours will be offered – four metallics: Phoenix Silver, Sirius Silver, Infra Red and Byte Blue, plus one solid colour, Clyde Blue.

The seven most popular colours from the original cee'd palette will be carried over so that New cee'd can also be ordered in: Cassa White, Machine Silver, Dakar Yellow, Oil Blue, Pewter Beige, Piston Gray and Black Pearl.

3. COMFORT & CONVENIENCE

Upgraded kit and materials for a fresher cabin ambience

Interior style, execution, quality, fit and finish of the original Kia cee'd were specifically designed and developed to impress and satisfy European consumers' needs and tastes. For the New cee'd, Kia has carried over all the key attributes while giving the cabin a fresh ambience by upgrading those zones with which the driver regular inter-acts and improving the environment for all occupants.

Facing the New cee'd driver is a new-style four-spoke steering wheel, which is becoming a Kia trademark feature, that can be adjusted for height and reach. It features sporty thumb-grips, alloy-finish lower spokes and remote control switches on both left and right spokes. When fitted with Bluetooth and a Trip Computer those remote controls are mounted on the lower spokes.

Another element of Kia's developing design DNA – the 'three-cylinder' instrument cluster – can be viewed through the new wheel. The cluster is available in both Standard and optional Super Vision forms (depending on model), featuring all-red illumination and clear, precise graphics.

The 'Super Vision' cluster incorporates a new 'message centre' digital information display at the bottom of the centre instrument. This display gives information about average and instant fuel consumption, current fuel level, range-to-empty, average speed, elapsed journey time, engine temperature and low-pressure tyre warnings, as well as door and tailgate 'open' alerts.

Inside New cee'd, the standard interior colour scheme for the dashboard and cabin trim of all cars is Ebony Black, while a 'Classic Grey' option retains Ebony Black for the top half of the cabin and trims the lower half in grey.

The new Centre Stack is flanked by vertical panels featuring four air vents and these panels can be specified in a choice of Classic Silver, Caramel Bronze and high-gloss Piano Black finishes. These finishes are also applied to the gear lever surround trim and the door garnish strips.

A wide choice of seat upholstery is also available. Standard interior colour scheme on LX is Black with silver cloth inserts, with the option on EX models of contrasting Bronze or Blue cloth inserts. TX versions feature Chevron cloth with the option of the 'Classic Grey' lower dashboard and cabin trim.

Optional Full Leather trim and a Sport Pack – with Carbon tyre-pattern cloth seat trim, contrasting grey stitching, alloy pedals and footrest, plus a unique gear-knob – are available on both EX and TX derivatives.

The radio/CD player is all-new and similar to the system destined for the Kia Venga with a circular central 'master' control. The centre-top, red-on-black display panel has much better readability thanks to its Dot Matrix and is able to present information about the audio system, tyre pressures, door locks, external temperature, time, day and date. The centre-bottom heating and ventilation selectors now control the standard (depending on model), or optional new dual-zone air-conditioning.

For New cee'd, the gear lever is fitted with a re-styled knob, a button-type reverse selector (instead of having to lift a collar), and a 23 mm deeper skirt to minimize the gap between skirt and gear knob. The floor console around the gear lever is also re-designed, with 'flying buttress' style side sections linking to the centre stack. It houses an oddments tray (with USB and AUX iPod®* connections), gear selector and hand-brake lever, twin cup-holders and large-capacity storage box topped by a padded armrest.

In front of the passenger, the dashboard houses a 6.5-litre glove box which has 18% more capacity than the original model.

New convenience features available include 'one-touch, triple-signal' turn indicators – ideal for lane changing on motorways – and a speed-limiter function which enables the driver to pre-set a maximum speed at which the throttle is reduced and a warning buzzer sounds.

Following Kia's tradition of delivering generous kit, top quality and great value, the New cee'd LX model comes with standard equipment that includes: front, side and curtain airbags, central locking, electric front windows, tinted glass, rear wash/wipe, RDS radio/CD player with four speakers, steering wheel mounted audio controls, glovebox and luggage area lamps, body colour outside door handles and 15-inch steel wheels with low rolling resistance 195/65 section Michelin tyres.

Standard equipment on EX models adds: front fog lamps, keyless entry, driver and front passenger seat height adjustment, driver's seat lumbar support, two tweeter speakers, 'active' head restraints, manual air-conditioning, front centre console, rear cup-holders, body coloured door mirrors – electrically adjustable and heated.

The range-topping TX models also come equipped with: 16-inch alloy wheels with 205/55 tyres, ESC with hill-start assist, dual-zone air-conditioning, part-leather seats, leather trimmed steering wheel, gear lever and hand brake, Piano Black high-gloss interior trim, turn repeater lights incorporated in the door mirrors, rear centre armrest and luggage-retaining net.

As well as the three equipment levels, customer will be offered a wide range of options – depending on individual markets. Main options include: cruise control, Bluetooth hands-free communications, 6.5-inch full-map satellite navigation with touch screen, auto light controls, auto wiper controls, leather trim, water-rejecting Hydro-phobic door glass, parking sensors and a tyre pressure monitoring system.

All cee'd models are fitted with a 60/40 split rear seat cushion and backrest. To increase luggage space, the cushions tip forwards and the backrests fold complete flat, aligning neatly with the trunk floor. Slots to store the detachable rear head restraints when the seats are folded are provided in the underside of the cushions.

The New cee'd hatchback and wagon models offer the same, generous interior space, as the original models:

Interior, Front Hatch Wagon
Headroom 1020 mm 1020 mm
Legroom 1105 mm 1105 mm
Shoulder room 1410 mm 1410 mm

Interior, Rear
Headroom 980 mm 995 mm
Legroom 900 mm 900 mm
Shoulder room 1385 mm 1385 mm

Behind the rear seats, New cee'd has a large and practically shaped luggage compartment. With the rear seats upright, maximum capacity is a competitive 340 litres (hatch) and 534 litres (wagon), which can be increased to 1300 and 1664 litres respectively, with the rear seats folded.

4. REFINEMENT

Improving on a 'best-in-class' NVH performance

In the lead-up to launching the original cee'd, Kia Motors made an unprecedented commitment to improving its all-new C-segment model's refinement and durability. The company was determined that cee'd would constitute a 'qualitative revolution' for the brand.

Kia's cee'd engineering teams at the company's R&D Centre in Russelsheim were tasked with creating a new C-segment challenger that matched or beat competitor vehicles for minimising noise, vibration and harshness (NVH).

They achieved their original goal and now the same teams have made painstaking, small detailed changes throughout the New cee'd to reduce cabin noise even further – by between 0.5 dB and 1.0 dB, depending on model.

The bodyshell for New cee'd is carried over from the original and makes an excellent foundation on which to build a low NVH vehicle. Torsional (twisting) stiffness is 42 Hz and flexural (bending) rigidity is also high. The resulting strong structure delivers numerous benefits in terms of controlling NVH, enhancing occupant crash protection, and providing a firm base for the fully independent suspension.

A significant reduction in the transmission of road noise is achieved by the use of a front sub-frame to support the engine, transmission, suspension and steering, and a rear sub-frame for mounting the rear suspension – delivering many positive effects on NVH and isolating the cabin from vibration sources.

Aerodynamically, New cee'd is a smooth, slippery and efficient car with a Cd of just 0.33 – minimizing airflow disruption over the car, and consequently achieving low levels of wind noise. The perception of low wind noise from within the cabin is aided by the fitting of multi-layer rubber seals around the doors and tailgate and one-piece weather strips around all windows.

Revised suspension settings and bushes, plus a new Michelin tyre structure, means that New cee'd is better able to absorb vibrations and shocks from imperfections in the road surface.

Kia engineers focused their NVH-reduction push on minimising vibrations, both at source and by extra dampening, over a wide range of frequencies. Each panel of the cee'd bodyshell was scrutinised to identify areas which could be modified for New cee'd to reduce noise generation at source. Hollow sections of the shell, especially in the A, B and C-pillars, were injected with sound-proofing foam, while isolation pads, made in new advanced materials, were placed in key locations.

Models fitted with the all-new 1.6-litre 'U2' diesel engine and new six-speed manual gearbox, also benefit from the improved refinement offered by this powertrain.

5. ENGINES

All-new U2 1.6 diesel joins five-strong engine line-up

Although Kia's New cee'd will be offered with the same engine choice as the original model – three gasoline and two diesel engines, ranging in power output from 90 to 143 ps – all the powertrains deliver significant reductions in fuel consumption and CO2 output. This is the result, partly of more refined engine tuning and partly because most models are fitted with low-viscosity engine and transmissions lubricants and new Michelin low rolling resistance tyres. Across the New cee'd range, the average of reduction is 5%.

The popular 1.6-litre diesel is replaced by a new engine from Kia's new 'U2' family, designed and engineered at Kia's R&D centre in Rüsselsheim, Germany and manufactured in Slovakia, especially for use in this important Kia newcomer.

Making its debut in New cee'd, the U2 1.6-litre diesel has the latest generation common rail diesel injection system and is fitted with Variable Geometry Turbocharger (VGT). It is cleaner, quieter and more fuel-efficient than its forebears, while still ensuring a responsive and lively performance.

U2 1.6L has been developed to deliver best-in-class power and torque outputs over the entire rev range to ensure optimum driveability. Crucially, more than 90 per cent of the maximum torque is available from just 1,500 rpm, for strong and smooth acceleration almost from idle.

Maximum power is 115 ps (84.5 kW) at 4,000 rpm and maximum torque of 255 Nm (26.0 kg.m) across a wide rev band, from 1,900 to 2,750 rpm.

U2 uses high pressure common rail injection with a variable swirl control system (up to five injections per cycle), electronically-controlled Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR), a variable geometry turbocharger, and a Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) to ensure it meets Euro 4 emissions regulations – depending on market.

NVH is well controlled and U2 engine noise has been reduced by 1.1% (to 92 dB at 4,000 rpm). Thanks to the fitment of a chain-driven timing system, owners will benefit from extended (to 30,000 km or one year) service intervals.

Fitted in New cee'd, the U2 with the new six-speed manual gearbox emits just 110 g/km (hatchback with Start/Stop) and 119 g/km (wagon with Start/Stop) of CO2. This represents an 8% improvement over the previous 1.6-litre 'U1' engine, and brings both cee'd models below the crucial 120g/km threshold applicable for taxation purposes across European countries, meaning many owners will be able to enjoy paying reduced or no vehicle taxation, and free parking or other benefits, in some markets.

Alongside the U2, buyers will be able to choose between four 'carry-over' engines – a 2.0-litre 140 ps diesel and three gasoline engines, a 1.4-litre (90 ps), a 1.6-litre (126 ps), and a 2.0-litre (143 ps), each fitted with Continuously Variable Valve Timing (CVVT) to ensure greater engine efficiency in all operating conditions. Lower power versions of these engines are available in some markets to meet local taxation requirements.

Start/Stop (ISG) available for three engines

In addition to using the latest technologies to enhance the efficiencies of each engine, Kia is offering its fuel-stretching Start/Stop (ISG) system – which automatically switches off and then restarts the engine in congested city driving – as an option on 1.4 and 1.6 gasoline engines, plus the 1.6 U2 diesel engine.

Working in conjunction with other technologies as part of Kia's new 'EcoDynamics' package, Start/Stop helps reduce fuel consumption and tailpipe emissions, enabling certain cee'd models to cut their CO2 emissions to just 110 g/km (hatchback). Other innovative technologies fitted to New cee'd include an Eco Driving Guide (gear-shift up/down indicator) to encourage an economical driving style and a power-saving alternator management system.

6. TRANSMISSIONS

New six-speed manual delivers customer benefits

Kia's New cee'd is available with a choice of either five- or six-speed manual or four-speed automatic gearboxes. Manual transmission is fitted as standard on all models, with the automatic available as an extra cost option on some engines.

An all-new six-speed manual gearbox is fitted as standard on all cee'd models powered by the new U2 diesel engine. Made in Europe, the new transmission is lighter, has taller gearing, uses low-viscosity oil and provides a marked improvement in gear change 'feel' for a more rewarding driving experience.

Both the five-speed and six-speed manual transmissions incorporate several innovations, including triple axis gear train and multiple-cone synchroniser (on first and second gears), for faster, smoother gear shifts. Rather than having to lift a spring-loaded safety collar before selecting reverse gear, drivers now depress a button on the leading edge of the gear lever.

Although manual transmission will be the standard equipment on New cee'd, two gasoline models (1.6 and 2.0) and one diesel (1.6) will be available with automatic transmission as an extra-cost option.

The automatic for New cee'd is a four-speed gearbox, featuring an electronic controller, which monitors a range of parameters including acceleration, deceleration, engine speed and road speed, ensuring safe gear changes with excellent shift quality, and also adapts the transmission's characteristics to suit an individual's driving style.

7. SUSPENSION & RUNNING GEAR

Fine-tuning an already competitive Ride & Handling package

When they developed the original Kia cee'd, Kia's European chassis engineers based in Germany were determined to ensure that the newcomer was among the 'segment-best' for ride and handling – targeting the Ford Focus and VW Golf as the models to match or beat.

Now, with New cee'd those engineers have taken the opportunity to fine tune the C-segment Kia's already competitive ride and handling package with minor modifications to the suspension and running gear that deliver valuable customer benefits for real-world, everyday motoring.

While retaining the same subframe-mounted MacPherson Strut (front) and Kia's subframe-mounted 'in-wheel multi-link' (rear) fully independent suspension layouts, engineers were briefed to improve riding comfort and steering response, without altering the car's overall handling balance.

After extensive testing, revised suspension settings were devised for New cee'd including softer front and rear springs and dampers, reduced friction in the front strut springs, modified anti-roll bars and suspension bushes, plus new bump stops.

Kia's precise MDPS 'electric' power steering

To save fuel and deliver responsive handling in everyday driving, New cee'd retains Kia's Motor Driven Power Steering system (MDPS). This electric power-assisted rack and pinion steering has relatively high gearing, requiring just 2.69 turns of the wheel from lock-to-lock. This system gives a fuel saving of 3% compared to conventional hydraulic assistance.

Although the steering hardware is carried over, the steering effort is reduced. A new Vehicle Stability Management (VSM) programme is introduced with improved electronic communications between the Electronic Stability Control (ESC) system and the MDPS steering controller. The VSM reduces the amount of assistance if the driver is applying too much steering effort – and increases assistance if the driver is applying too little effort.

Powerful braking for rapid stopping

The Kia cee'd has a power-assisted all-disc braking system which delivers excellent stopping power that is highly competitive in the C-segment. The large diameter 280 mm ventilated front discs and solid 262 mm rear discs, are backed-up by four-channel, four-sensor ABS with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), which is standard fit for all cee'd models.

Available as part of the ESC package, the emergency Brake Assist System (BAS), senses when a driver is making an emergency stop and applies maximum braking effort. It is standard equipment (with ESC) on New cee'd TX models and optional on others. The standard braking system delivers powerful, secure and stable braking performance with consistent pedal feel.

Multiple choices for wheels – all with Michelin tyres

Maintaining a policy adopted early in the original car's evolution, Kia continued to develop the New cee'd chassis and running gear using Michelin tyres exclusively, so that its engineers could tune the new model's characteristics precisely for a specific type of tyre size, compound and construction.

The close collaboration between Kia and Michelin also allowed technicians to optimise the cee'd tyres to minimise rolling resistance and maximise fuel economy – without compromising road holding, handling, ride and refinement.

The standard wheels for LX and EX New cee'd models are 15-inch diameter 5.5J wide steel wheels with 5-spoke full-cover plastic trims. LX models are equipped with 185/65 R15 tyres, while EX models feature fatter 195/65 section tryes. Range-topping cee'd TX models have 16-inch, 6.0J alloy wheels and 205/55 R16 tyres – as standard.

In most European countries, New cee'd models will be offered with a wide choice of optional wheels and tyres, including a 16-inch steel wheel with 10-spoke plastic trims, three designs of 16-inch and two of 17-inch alloys – including new 'D Type' 17-inch 5-spoke wheels finished in Hyper Silver and supplied as part of the factory-fitted optional Sports Pack.

The 16-inch diameter wheels will be fitted with 205/55 tyres, while the 17-inch wheels will have 225/45 tyres. All cee'd models come with a steel space-saver spare wheel – located in the trunk floor well.

8. SAFETY & SECURITY

ESC with new Hill-Start Assist available for every New cee'd

Kia's engineers have worked hard to ensure that New cee'd is one of the safest cars in the C-segment and has the highest levels of active and passive safety, to fully satisfy the ever increasing consumer expectations about this aspect of car design. The original Kia cee'd achieved a 5-Star Euro NCAP safety rating in 2007 and Kia anticipates that the New cee'd will perform equally well in the tougher tests now being applied to new cars.

New cee'd has many stress-reducing features to help maintain driver alertness, plus its active safety features, such as stable handling, precise steering, and powerful braking, result in drivers of this Kia being fully equipped to avoid potential accident situations and cope with everyday motoring hazards.

As before, every New cee'd has a powerful all-disc braking system featuring ABS anti-lock with EBD electronic brake force distribution. The ESC system, which now incorporates a Hill-Start Assist Control (HAC) programme to prevent roll-back, is standard on TX models and available as an option on all others. ESC comes with a Traction Control System (TCS) and BAS. The system is fully automatic and operates at all times, in all weathers, reducing under-steer or over-steer and returning the car to the course intended by the driver.

Three options boost safety performance even further. The Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) will trigger an instrument cluster display indicating which tyre is punctured or has low pressure.

Kia's Park Assist System (a rear parking aid), has four sensors and enhances safety during low-speed manoeuvres. The system gives the driver an audible alert when reversing towards an obstruction. The intensity of the warning increases as the car gets closer to the person, animal or object.

Unique to the Kia cee'd family, innovative 'Hydro-phobic' glass is an option for all door glass. Coated with a water repellent film, the hydro-phobic glass enhances safety by encouraging rain to flow away quickly, leaving the driver with greatly improved visibility.

Safeguarding occupants to maximise protection

If an accident is unavoidable, New cee'd is engineered to safeguard the occupants with a robust bodyshell and a range of passive safety measures to offer its occupants maximum possible protection. All five seats have manually adjustable head restraints and three-point seatbelts as standard. Integrated 'active' head restraints are standard on both front seats in EX and TX models. During a rear impact, these head restraints move forwards to reduce whiplash injuries to the neck or back. The system is available on LX models as an optional extra.

Every New cee'd hatchback and wagon is equipped with six airbags – dual front airbags, front side airbags and full-length curtain airbags, protecting the occupants in both seat rows – as standard.

All safety systems work together to provide full passenger protection, so simultaneously with an airbag inflation, a signal is relayed to the other airbags and to the seatbelt pre-tensioners, activating them if appropriate. The passenger side front airbag features an on-off switch so it can be deactivated if children occupy that seat.

The rear side doors of cee'd are fitted with child safety locks and two ISOFIX anchor points are fitted in the back row seats for the attachment of child safety seats.

Security and peace of mind

In the modern world, vehicle security is an important aspect of personal safety and New cee'd is comprehensively equipped to resist thieves. Central locking with all-door override is standard on all models, with speed-sensing automatic locking. Keyless entry and an anti-theft alarm and dash-top security lamp are standard on EX and TX models.

Every cee'd engine is fitted with an advanced electronic immobiliser that was developed in tandem with the Thatcham Motor Insurance Repair Research Centre in the UK, and targets a top-level anti-theft protection rating. Every model has a battery saver which switches off any interior or exterior lights that have been left on after the engine has been turned-off, preventing draining of the battery.

9. TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

New Kia cee'd

Body & Chassis

Five-seater with choice of hatchback and wagon bodystyles. All-steel unitary construction bodyshell. Choice of five transversely-mounted gasoline and diesel engines driving the front wheels via a five-speed, or six-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission (depending on model). Choice of three equipment levels (LX, EX and TX) and 12 exterior colours (depending on market).

Engines (availability may vary by individual markets)

Diesel Engines
2.0 CRDi 140 ps (136 ps)*
Name 'D'
Type DOHC, four-cylinder in line, with VGT
Capacity 2.0-litres, 1991 cc
Max power 140 ps (103 kW) @ 4000 rpm
Max torque 305 Nm (31.0 kg.m) @ 2000 rpm
Emissions class Euro Stage 4

1.6 CRDi 115 ps (90 ps)*
Name 'U2'
Type DOHC, four-cylinder in line, with VGT
Capacity 1.6-litres, 1582 cc
Max power 115 ps (85 kW) @ 4000 rpm
Max torque 255 Nm (26.0 kg.m) @ 1900-to-2750 rpm
Emissions class Euro Stage 4

Gasoline Engines
2.0-litre 143 ps
Name 'Beta'
Type DOHC, four-cylinder in line, with dual CVVT
Capacity 2.0-litres, 1975 cc
Max power 143 ps (105.2 kW) @ 6000 rpm
Max torque 184 Nm (19.0 kg.m) @ 4750 rpm
Emissions class Euro Stage 4

1.6-litre 126 ps (115 ps)*
Name 'Gamma'
Type DOHC, four-cylinder in line, with dual CVVT
Capacity 1.6-litres, 1591 cc
Max power 126 ps (91.9 kW) @ 6200 rpm
Max torque 154 Nm (15.7 kg.m) @ 4200 rpm
Emissions class Euro Stage 5 (optional depending on market)

1.4-litre 90 ps
Name 'Gamma'
Type DOHC, four-cylinder in line, with dual CVVT
Capacity 1.4-litres, 1396 cc
Max power 90 ps (66.2 kW) @ 6200 rpm
Max torque 137 Nm (14.0 kg.m) @ 5000 rpm
Emissions class Euro Stage 5 (optional depending on market)
*Lower power versions available in some markets to meet local taxation regulations

Transmissions
2.0 Diesel 1.6 Diesel
Manual 6-sp 6-sp
Automatic ----- 4-sp
2.0 Gasoline 1.6 Gasoline 1.4 Gasoline
Manual 5-sp 5-sp 5-sp
Automatic 4-sp 4-sp -----

Suspension & Damping
Front Fully independent by subframe-mounted Macpherson struts, with coil springs and gas-filled shock absorbers. Anti-roll stabiliser bar.
Rear Fully independent by subframe-mounted compact multi-links, coil springs and gas-filled shock absorbers, Anti-roll stabiliser bar.
Steering
Type MDPS electric power-assisted rack & pinion
Overall ratio 13.2:1
Gearing 2.69 turns lock-to-lock (most models)
2.58 turns lock-to-lock (2.0D and all with 17-inch wheels)
Turning circle 10.34 metres (most models)
10.80 metres (2.0D and all with 17-inch wheels)


Brakes
Power Single 10-inch booster
Front 280 x 26 mm ventilated discs
Rear 262 x 10 mm solid discs
ABS 4-Channel anti-lock system with EBD
ESP Stability Program with hill-start-assist to prevent roll-back
BAS Delivers maximum braking in emergency situations

Wheels & Tyres
Standard
(LX) 15 x 5.5J Steel 185/65 R15 tyres
(EX) 15 x 5.5J Alloy 195/65 R15 tyres
(TX) 16 x 6.0J Alloy 205/55 R16 tyres
Optional 17 x 7.0J Alloy 225/45 R17 tyres
Spare (standard) Temporary wheel & tyre



DIMENSIONS (mm)
Hatch Wagon Coupe
Exterior
Overall length 4260 4490 4250
Overall width* 1790 ----- -----
Overall height 1480 1490 1450
Wheelbase 2650 ----- -----
Front track 1546 ----- -----
Rear track 1544 ----- -----
Front overhang 885 885 875
Rear overhang 725 960 725
Ground clearance 150 ----- -----
*excluding door mirrors

Hatch Wagon Coupe
Interior, Front
Headroom 1020 ----- 990
Legroom 1105 ----- -----
Shoulder room 1410 ----- -----


Interior, Rear
Headroom 980 995 940
Legroom 900 ----- -----
Shoulder room 1385 ----- 1360

Capacities
Hatch Wagon Coupe
Fuel tank 53 53 53 litres (all models)
Luggage (VDA) 340 534 340 litres
Rear seats folded 1300 1664 1300 litres


HATCHBACK (manual models)
Curb weight (kg)*
2.0 Diesel 1.6 Diesel
Manual 1458 1367
Automatic ----- 1374
2.0 Gasoline 1.6 Gasoline 1.4 Gasoline
Manual 1341 1263 1263
Automatic 1349 1291 -----
*excluding driver

Performance & Fuel Economy (litres/100 km) *
2.0 Diesel 1.6 Diesel 115ps (ISG) 1.6 Diesel 90ps (ISG)
Top speed / kph 205 188 172
0-to-100 kph / sec 10.3 11.5 14.0
Combined cycle 5.4 4.4 4.2
CO2 g/km 142 115 110

2.0 Gasoline 1.6 Gasoline (ISG) 1.4 Gasoline (ISG)
Top speed / kph 205 192 187
0-to-100 kph / sec 10.4 10.8 11.6
Combined cycle 7.0 5.9 5.5
CO2 g/km 167 139 132

WAGON (manual models)
Curb weight (kg)*
2.0 Diesel 1.6 Diesel
Manual 1438 1344
Automatic ----- 1351
2.0 Gasoline 1.6 Gasoline 1.4 Gasoline
Manual 1397 1317 1317
Automatic 1409 1334 -----
*excluding driver

Performance & Fuel Economy (litres/100 km)*
2.0 Diesel 1.6 Diesel 115ps (ISG) 1.6 Diesel 90ps (ISG)
Top speed / kph 205 188 172
0-to-100 kph / sec 10.3 11.5 14.0
Combined cycle 5.5 4.5 4.5
CO2 g/km 146 119 119

2.0 Gasoline 1.6 Gasoline (ISG) 1.4 Gasoline (ISG)
Top speed / kph 205 192 187
0-to-100 kph / sec 10.4 10.8 11.6
Combined cycle 7.1 6.0 5.7
CO2 g/km 168 142 135

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