The Kia Cee’d II (facelift, introduced in June 2015) 1.4 CVVT producing 100 horsepower represents an entry-level offering within the second generation of Kia’s globally-focused compact hatchback. Positioned as a value-oriented option, this variant aimed to provide affordable transportation with reasonable fuel efficiency. The facelift brought styling updates and revised equipment levels to the Cee’d range, building upon the foundation laid by the original Cee’d launched in 2006, which was Kia’s first car designed specifically for the European market. This model continued in production through 2018, serving as a key volume seller for Kia in Europe.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Kia |
| Model | Cee’d |
| Generation | Cee’d II (facelift 2015) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.4 CVVT (100 Hp) |
| Start of production | June, 2015 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.8 l/100 km (30.2 US mpg, 36.2 UK mpg, 12.8 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) | 6.0 l/100 km (39.2 US mpg, 47.1 UK mpg, 16.7 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 138 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 Cee’d 1.4 CVVT utilizes Kia’s Kappa family of engines, specifically the G4LC code. This 1.4-liter inline-four cylinder engine is a naturally aspirated powerplant featuring multi-point fuel injection. The engine’s key technology is its Continuously Variable Valve Timing (CVVT) system, which optimizes valve opening and closing times based on engine speed and load, improving both performance and fuel efficiency. The engine produces 100 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 134 Nm (98.83 lb-ft) of torque at 4000 rpm. The engine’s relatively modest output is delivered through a six-speed manual transmission, driving the front wheels. The G4LC engine is known for its relatively simple design, contributing to its generally good reliability.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.4 CVVT Cee’d offers a comfortable, if not particularly exciting, driving experience. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes around 12.1 seconds, and top speed is 183 km/h (113.71 mph). The engine feels adequate for everyday driving, providing sufficient power for urban commutes and highway cruising, but it can feel strained when fully loaded or attempting brisk acceleration. The six-speed manual transmission is well-matched to the engine, allowing drivers to keep the engine in its optimal power band. Compared to higher-output versions of the Cee’d, such as those equipped with the 1.6 GDI engine, the 1.4 CVVT feels noticeably slower. However, it offers better fuel economy and a smoother, more relaxed driving experience.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.4 CVVT typically served as the entry-level trim in the Cee’d range. Standard equipment generally included air conditioning, electric front windows, a basic audio system with USB connectivity, and stability control. Higher trim levels added features such as alloy wheels, a touchscreen infotainment system, rear parking sensors, and cruise control. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a functional, if somewhat basic, dashboard layout. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, leather upholstery, and a more advanced audio system.
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 front brakes are ventilated discs, while the rear brakes are solid discs. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard. The suspension tuning is geared towards 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.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Kia Cee’d 1.4 CVVT was generally well-received by automotive critics as a practical and affordable hatchback. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and generous warranty. However, it was also criticized for its relatively modest performance and somewhat uninspiring interior. Compared to rivals such as the Volkswagen Golf, Ford Focus, and Peugeot 308, the Cee’d 1.4 CVVT offered a more affordable price point but lacked the refinement and driving dynamics of some of its competitors. Fuel economy figures of around 39.2 US mpg combined were competitive within its class.
Legacy
The Kia Cee’d II 1.4 CVVT has proven to be a reliable and durable vehicle. The Kappa engine is generally considered to be robust, and the simple design contributes to relatively low maintenance costs. In the used car market, these models represent a good value proposition for buyers seeking an affordable and practical hatchback. While not a performance standout, the 1.4 CVVT Cee’d remains a popular choice for those prioritizing fuel efficiency, reliability, and affordability.
