The Kia Ceed III 1.4 (100 hp) represents an entry-level offering within the third generation of Kia’s C-segment hatchback, produced briefly between June and September 2018. Positioned as the most accessible powertrain option in the Ceed III lineup, it aimed to provide a balance of affordability and practicality for buyers seeking a fuel-efficient and reasonably equipped compact car. This variant utilized Kia’s Kappa 1.4-liter gasoline engine paired with a six-speed manual transmission, catering primarily to the European market where smaller displacement engines were favored due to tax regulations and fuel costs. It served as a stepping stone into the Ceed range, offering a more economical alternative to the 1.6L and diesel variants.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Kia |
| Model | Cee’d |
| Generation | Ceed III |
| Type (Engine) | 1.4 (100 Hp) |
| Start of production | June, 2018 |
| End of production | September, 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8 l/100 km (29.4 US mpg, 35.3 UK mpg, 12.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.4 l/100 km (43.6 US mpg, 52.3 UK mpg, 18.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.4 l/100 km (36.8 US mpg, 44.1 UK mpg, 15.6 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 145 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 12 sec |
| Maximum speed | 183 km/h (113.71 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 d |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.9 kg/Hp, 84.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.8 kg/Nm, 113.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 100 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 73.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 134 Nm @ 3500 rpm (98.83 lb.-ft. @ 3500 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 |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.6 l (3.8 US qt | 3.17 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 5.5 l (5.81 US qt | 4.84 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1185 kg (2612.48 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1760 kg (3880.14 lbs.) |
| Max load | 575 kg (1267.66 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 395 l (13.95 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1291 l (45.59 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 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 | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4310 mm (169.69 in.) |
| Width | 1800 mm (70.87 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2055 mm (80.91 in.) |
| Height | 1447 mm (56.97 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2650 mm (104.33 in.) |
| Front track | 1559-1573 mm (61.38 – 61.93 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1567-1581 mm (61.69 – 62.24 in.) |
| Front overhang | 880 mm (34.65 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 780 mm (30.71 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 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 |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 195/65 R15; 205/55 R16; 225/45 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.0J x 15; 6.5J x 16; 7.0J x 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Ceed III 1.4 is Kia’s Kappa II generation 1.4-liter (1368cc) inline-four cylinder gasoline engine, designated G4LC. This engine is a naturally aspirated unit featuring multi-point fuel injection and dual continuously variable valve timing (CVVT) on both intake and exhaust camshafts. The CVVT system 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 3500 rpm. The six-speed manual transmission was the sole gearbox option for this variant, offering a relatively conventional gear ratio spread designed for everyday driving. The transmission’s ratios were tuned to prioritize fuel economy and smooth operation rather than outright performance.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.4-liter engine, coupled with the manual transmission, delivers modest performance. Acceleration from 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes approximately 12.6 seconds, and the top speed is rated at 183 km/h (113.71 mph). In real-world driving, the engine feels adequate for urban and suburban commutes, but can feel strained when fully loaded or during highway overtaking maneuvers. The six-speed gearbox helps to keep the engine within its optimal power band, but requires frequent shifting to maintain momentum. Compared to the more powerful 1.6L gasoline or 1.6L diesel options, the 1.4 feels noticeably less responsive. However, it offers a lighter steering feel and a more forgiving clutch, making it easier to drive for less experienced drivers.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.4-liter Ceed III typically came equipped with a base level of features, designed to offer good value for money. Standard equipment generally included air conditioning, electric front windows, a basic audio system with USB connectivity, and stability control (ESC). 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 a relatively simple dashboard layout. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, heated seats, and a more advanced navigation system.
Chassis & Braking
The Ceed III utilizes a front-wheel-drive platform with independent suspension at all four corners. The front suspension employs a McPherson strut design, while the rear features a multi-link setup. This configuration provides a good balance of ride comfort and handling. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) as standard. The steering is electrically assisted, providing a light and precise feel. The suspension tuning is geared towards comfort, with a focus on absorbing bumps and providing a stable ride.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Kia Ceed III 1.4 (100 hp) was generally well-received as an affordable and practical hatchback. Critics praised its fuel efficiency and comfortable ride, but noted its lack of outright performance. Compared to rivals like the Volkswagen Golf, Ford Focus, and Peugeot 308, the Ceed offered a competitive price point and a generous warranty. The 1.4-liter engine provided better fuel economy than the 1.6L gasoline engine, but at the expense of performance. The diesel variants offered superior fuel economy and torque, but came with a higher purchase price and potential maintenance costs.
Legacy
The Kappa 1.4-liter engine has proven to be a relatively reliable unit, with few widespread mechanical issues reported. The Ceed III 1.4, while not a performance standout, has maintained a reasonable reputation for dependability. On the used car market, these models represent an affordable entry point into Kia ownership. Maintenance costs are generally low, and parts availability is good. However, potential buyers should be aware of the engine’s limited power output and ensure that the vehicle has been properly maintained. The Ceed III 1.4 remains a practical and economical choice for buyers seeking a reliable and fuel-efficient compact hatchback.
