The Kia Cee’d II 1.6 GDi (135 hp) DCT represents a significant step forward for Kia in the European compact hatchback market. Produced from 2012 to 2015, this variant occupied a mid-range position within the Cee’d II lineup, offering a blend of fuel efficiency, modern technology, and reasonable performance. It was designed to appeal to buyers seeking a practical and well-equipped family car with the convenience of an automatic transmission. The Cee’d II, built on the JD platform (shared with the Hyundai i30), aimed to challenge established European rivals like the Volkswagen Golf and Ford Focus.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Kia |
| Model | Cee’d |
| Generation | Cee’d II |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 GDi (135 Hp) DCT |
| Start of production | 2012 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 8 l/100 km (29.4 US mpg, 35.3 UK mpg, 12.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 4.9 l/100 km (48 US mpg, 57.6 UK mpg, 20.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 6.1 l/100 km (38.6 US mpg, 46.3 UK mpg, 16.4 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 140 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 195 km/h (121.17 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.1 kg/Hp, 110.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.4 kg/Nm, 134.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 135 Hp @ 6300 rpm |
| Power per litre | 84.9 Hp/l |
| Torque | 165 Nm @ 4850 rpm (121.7 lb.-ft. @ 4850 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | Gamma II / G4FD |
| Engine displacement | 1591 cm3 (97.09 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 77 mm (3.03 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 85.44 mm (3.36 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC, VVT |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.6 l (3.8 US qt | 3.17 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 5.7 l (6.02 US qt | 5.02 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1226-1346 kg (2702.87 – 2967.42 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1840 kg (4056.51 lbs.) |
| Max load | 494-614 kg (1089.08 – 1353.64 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%) | 1300 kg (2866.01 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 | 2045 mm (80.51 in.) |
| Height | 1470 mm (57.87 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2650 mm (104.33 in.) |
| Front track | 1549-1555 mm (60.98 – 61.22 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1557-1563 mm (61.3 – 61.54 in.) |
| Front overhang | 900 mm (35.43 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 760 mm (29.92 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 140 mm (5.51 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.34 m (33.92 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, automatic transmission DCT |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 205/55 R16; 225/45 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 16; 7J x 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Cee’d II 1.6 GDi DCT is the Gamma II family of engines, specifically the G4FD code. This 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder engine utilizes direct gasoline injection (GDi) to enhance fuel efficiency and power output. The direct injection system, operating at pressures up to 200 bar, allows for precise fuel delivery directly into the combustion chamber, improving combustion efficiency and reducing knocking. The engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with variable valve timing (VVT) on both intake and exhaust camshafts, further optimizing performance across the rev range. The 1591cc engine produces 135 horsepower at 6300 rpm and 165 Nm (121.7 lb-ft) of torque at 4850 rpm. Paired with this engine is a six-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT). This DCT provides quicker and smoother gear changes compared to a traditional automatic transmission, contributing to improved acceleration and fuel economy. The DCT operates with two separate clutches, one for odd gears and one for even gears, allowing for pre-selection of the next gear for seamless shifts.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6 GDi DCT offers a comfortable and refined driving experience. While not a performance-oriented variant, it provides adequate acceleration for everyday driving situations. The 0-60 mph time of around 10.3 seconds is respectable for a family hatchback. The DCT transmission contributes to smooth gear changes, although some drivers may notice a slight hesitation at lower speeds. The gear ratios are tuned for fuel efficiency, with a relatively long final drive. Compared to the more powerful 1.6 T-GDi or diesel variants, the 1.6 GDi feels less responsive, particularly during overtaking maneuvers. However, the lighter weight compared to some of the larger-engined models helps to mitigate this. The steering is light and precise, making it easy to maneuver in urban environments.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6 GDi DCT typically came equipped with a generous level of standard features. These included air conditioning, electric front and rear windows, a USB audio connection, Bluetooth connectivity, and a multi-function steering wheel. Higher trim levels, such as ‘2’ or ‘3’, added features like alloy wheels, a touchscreen infotainment system, rear parking sensors, and cruise control. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for leather upgrades on higher trims. The dashboard layout was functional and well-designed, with a focus on ergonomics. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, heated front seats, and a navigation system.
Chassis & Braking
The Cee’d II utilizes a McPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension. This setup provides a good balance between ride comfort and handling. The suspension is tuned to prioritize comfort, resulting in a relatively soft ride quality. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering. The braking system consists of ventilated discs on the front wheels and solid discs on the rear. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) is standard, providing enhanced braking performance and stability. The steering is a rack and pinion system with electric power assistance.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Kia Cee’d II 1.6 GDi DCT was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and generous equipment levels. However, some reviewers noted that the engine lacked the punch of its turbocharged counterparts. Compared to the 1.6 T-GDi, the 1.6 GDi offered lower running costs but less exciting performance. The diesel variants (1.6 CRDi) provided even better fuel economy but were generally more expensive to purchase. The DCT transmission was seen as a positive feature, offering a more refined driving experience than a traditional automatic.
Legacy
The Kia Cee’d II 1.6 GDi DCT has proven to be a reliable and durable vehicle. The Gamma II engine is generally considered to be robust, with few major issues reported. The DCT transmission, while more complex than a traditional automatic, has also proven to be relatively reliable with regular maintenance. In the used car market, the Cee’d II 1.6 GDi DCT represents a good value proposition, offering a well-equipped and fuel-efficient family hatchback at an affordable price. However, potential buyers should ensure that the DCT transmission has been serviced according to Kia’s recommended schedule to avoid potential issues.
