The Kia Cee’d II (facelift, introduced in June 2015) 1.4 CVVT 100 hp ISG represents an entry-level offering within the second generation of Kia’s globally-focused C-segment hatchback. Positioned as a fuel-efficient and affordable option, this variant aimed to attract buyers prioritizing economy and practicality. Production continued through 2018. The Cee’d II, developed primarily for the European market, was Kia’s attempt to establish a stronger foothold in the highly competitive compact car segment, offering a blend of Korean value and European design sensibilities. This specific 1.4L engine and manual transmission combination served as the base model, offering a more accessible price point compared to higher-trim levels with larger engines or automatic transmissions.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Kia |
| Model | Cee’d |
| Generation | Cee’d II (facelift 2015) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.4 CVVT (100 Hp) ISG |
| Start of production | June, 2015 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.5 l/100 km (31.4 US mpg, 37.7 UK mpg, 13.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.9 l/100 km (48 US mpg, 57.6 UK mpg, 20.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.8 l/100 km (40.6 US mpg, 48.7 UK mpg, 17.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 135 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 12.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 183 km/h (113.71 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.8 kg/Hp, 84.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.8 kg/Nm, 113.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 100 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 73.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 134 Nm @ 4000 rpm (98.83 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | Kappa / G4LC |
| Engine displacement | 1368 cm3 (83.48 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 72 mm (2.83 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 84 mm (3.31 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | CVVT |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.6 l (3.8 US qt | 3.17 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 5.8 l (6.13 US qt | 5.1 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1179-1313 kg (2599.25 – 2894.67 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1820 kg (4012.41 lbs.) |
| Max load | 507-641 kg (1117.74 – 1413.16 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 380 l (13.42 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1318 l (46.54 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 53 l (14 US gal | 11.66 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 80 kg (176.37 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1200 kg (2645.55 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 600 kg (1322.77 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 60 kg (132.28 lbs.) |
| Length | 4310 mm (169.69 in.) |
| Width | 1780 mm (70.08 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2035 mm (80.12 in.) |
| Height | 1470 mm (57.87 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2650 mm (104.33 in.) |
| Front track | 1555-1563 mm (61.22 – 61.54 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1563-1571 mm (61.54 – 61.85 in.) |
| Front overhang | 900 mm (35.43 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 760 mm (29.92 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.6 m (34.78 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 280-300 mm |
| Rear brakes | Disc, 262-284 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 195/65 R15 91H; 205/55 R16 91H |
| Wheel rims size | 6; 0J x 15 ET46; 6; 5J x 16 ET50 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Cee’d variant is the Kia Kappa 1.4-liter inline-four cylinder engine, internally designated as the G4LC. This engine is a naturally aspirated unit featuring multi-point fuel injection and Kia’s Continuously Variable Valve Timing (CVVT) technology. CVVT optimizes valve timing based on engine speed and load, improving both fuel efficiency and power delivery. The engine produces 100 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 134 Nm (98.83 lb-ft) of torque at 4000 rpm. The engine’s design prioritizes fuel economy and smooth operation over outright performance. It’s a relatively simple engine, contributing to its reliability. The engine is paired with a six-speed manual transmission, chosen for its affordability and efficiency. The ISG (Idle Stop & Go) system automatically shuts off the engine when the vehicle is stopped, further enhancing fuel savings.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.4L 100 hp Cee’d is not a performance-oriented vehicle. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes approximately 12.7 seconds. The engine feels adequate for everyday driving, providing sufficient power for city commutes and highway cruising, but it can feel strained when fully loaded or attempting quick overtaking maneuvers. The six-speed manual transmission is well-matched to the engine, offering a decent spread of gear ratios. The gear ratios are tuned for fuel efficiency, meaning the engine often needs to be revved to access its peak power. Compared to the more powerful 1.6L GDI engine offered in higher trims, this variant feels noticeably slower. The manual transmission provides a more engaging driving experience than the optional automatic transmission available on other Cee’d models.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.4 CVVT ISG typically served as the entry-level trim, meaning it came with a relatively basic level of standard equipment. Features generally included air conditioning, power windows, central locking, a basic audio system with USB connectivity, and ABS brakes. Safety features such as airbags were standard. Optional extras could include alloy wheels, a more advanced audio system, and parking sensors. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, and the dashboard featured a functional but somewhat plain design. The focus was on providing essential features at an affordable price point.
Chassis & Braking
The Cee’d II utilizes a front independent McPherson strut suspension and a rear independent multi-link suspension. This setup provides a good balance between ride comfort and handling. The suspension is tuned for comfort, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road reasonably well. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs on the front wheels and solid discs on the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard. The steering is a rack and pinion system, providing adequate feedback and precision.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 1.4 CVVT ISG Cee’d was generally well-received by critics as a sensible and economical choice. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and competitive pricing. However, it was often criticized for its lack of outright performance. Compared to rivals like the Volkswagen Golf, Ford Focus, and Opel Astra, the Cee’d offered a more affordable alternative, but it didn’t quite match the refinement or driving dynamics of those established competitors. The 1.6L GDI engine offered in higher trims provided a significant performance upgrade, but at a higher price point. The 1.6L diesel variants offered even better fuel economy, but with a different driving experience.
Legacy
The Kia Cee’d II 1.4 CVVT ISG has proven to be a reliable and durable vehicle. The Kappa engine is known for its longevity, and the relatively simple mechanical design contributes to lower maintenance costs. On the used car market, these models represent a good value proposition for buyers seeking an affordable and fuel-efficient hatchback. While not a particularly exciting vehicle to drive, it offers a practical and dependable transportation solution. Parts availability is generally good, and the Cee’d’s reputation for reliability has helped it maintain a solid following in the used car market.
