The Kia Cee’d II 1.6 CRDi 16V, producing 128 horsepower, was a key variant in Kia’s European lineup from 2012 to 2015. Positioned as a fuel-efficient and practical option within the second generation Cee’d (JD) range – built on the 1HX0 platform – it aimed to appeal to buyers seeking a balance between economy and everyday usability. This model represented Kia’s growing ambition to offer vehicles that were competitive in terms of both features and value within the highly contested European compact hatchback segment. The Cee’d II was a significant step forward for Kia in Europe, moving beyond simply offering affordable transportation to providing a genuinely desirable product.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Kia |
| Model | Cee’d |
| Generation | Cee’d II |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 CRDi 16V (128 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2012 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.2 l/100 km (45.2 US mpg, 54.3 UK mpg, 19.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.8 l/100 km (61.9 US mpg, 74.3 UK mpg, 26.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.3 l/100 km (54.7 US mpg, 65.7 UK mpg, 23.3 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 114 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 197 km/h (122.41 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.2 kg/Hp, 98.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5 kg/Nm, 200 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 128 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 80.9 Hp/l |
| Torque | 260 Nm @ 1900 rpm (191.77 lb.-ft. @ 1900 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | D4FB |
| Engine displacement | 1582 cm3 (96.54 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 77.2 mm (3.04 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 84.5 mm (3.33 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 17.3:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.3 l (5.6 US qt | 4.66 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6.9 l (7.29 US qt | 6.07 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1300-1424 kg (2866.01 – 3139.38 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1920 kg (4232.88 lbs.) |
| Max load | 496-620 kg (1093.49 – 1366.87 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%) | 1500 kg (3306.93 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 650 kg (1433 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4310 mm (169.69 in.) |
| Width | 1780 mm (70.08 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2045 mm (80.51 in.) |
| Height | 1470 mm (57.87 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2650 mm (104.33 in.) |
| Front track | 1549 mm (60.98 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1557 mm (61.3 in.) |
| Front overhang | 900 mm (35.43 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 760 mm (29.92 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.6 m (34.78 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| 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 | 225/45 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 7J x 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Cee’d II 1.6 CRDi 16V is the Kia-developed D4FB engine. This 1.6-liter inline-four diesel utilizes a common-rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion. The engine benefits from a turbocharger with an intercooler, boosting power output and improving torque across a wider rev range. The 16-valve DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft) configuration further enhances breathing and efficiency. The engine’s robust construction and relatively simple design contribute to its overall reliability. The 6-speed manual transmission was the standard offering, chosen for its efficiency and driver engagement. The engine’s electronic control unit (ECU) manages fuel injection timing, turbocharger boost, and other parameters to meet Euro 5 emission standards.
Driving Characteristics
The 128 horsepower and 260 Nm (192 lb-ft) of torque provided by the 1.6 CRDi engine delivered respectable, if not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph took around 10.4 seconds, and top speed was approximately 122 mph. The engine’s peak torque, available from just 1900 rpm, meant that the Cee’d felt responsive in everyday driving situations, offering ample pulling power for overtaking and navigating hills. The 6-speed manual transmission was well-matched to the engine’s characteristics, with gear ratios designed to maximize fuel efficiency and provide smooth shifts. Compared to the more powerful 1.6 GDI gasoline engine or the higher-output diesel variants, the 1.6 CRDi prioritized fuel economy over outright performance. The manual transmission offered a more engaging driving experience than the optional automatic, which could sometimes feel sluggish.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6 CRDi 16V was typically offered in mid-range trim levels, such as ‘2’ or ‘3’ depending on the specific market. Standard equipment generally included air conditioning, electric front windows, a radio/CD player with USB connectivity, and ABS brakes. Higher trim levels added features like alloy wheels, rear parking sensors, cruise control, and a more sophisticated infotainment system. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a functional and durable design. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, leather upholstery, and a navigation system.
Chassis & Braking
The Cee’d II utilized a McPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. The suspension was tuned to prioritize ride comfort over sporty handling, making it well-suited for everyday driving. Front brakes were ventilated discs, while rear brakes were solid discs. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, enhancing safety and stability during braking. The steering was a rack-and-pinion system, providing precise and responsive steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Kia Cee’d II 1.6 CRDi 16V was generally well-received by automotive critics for its fuel efficiency, practicality, and value for money. It offered a compelling alternative to established rivals like the Volkswagen Golf, Ford Focus, and Vauxhall Astra. Fuel economy was a key strength, with combined figures of around 54.7 US mpg. Reliability was also a positive point, with Kia’s improving reputation for build quality. Compared to the more powerful engine options in the Cee’d range, the 1.6 CRDi was seen as a more sensible choice for drivers prioritizing economy and low running costs. However, some critics noted that the engine lacked the refinement and performance of some of its competitors.
Legacy
The Kia Cee’d II 1.6 CRDi 16V has proven to be a reliable and durable vehicle in the used car market. The D4FB engine, while not without its occasional issues (such as potential DPF clogging), is generally considered to be robust and long-lasting. The Cee’d II’s relatively simple design and readily available parts contribute to its affordability and ease of maintenance. Today, these models represent a good value proposition for buyers seeking a practical and economical compact hatchback. The Cee’d II played a crucial role in establishing Kia as a major player in the European automotive market, demonstrating the brand’s commitment to quality and innovation.
