The Kia Ceed III (facelift, introduced in October 2021) 1.5 T-GDI, producing 160 horsepower, represents a significant iteration within the third generation of Kia’s popular C-segment hatchback. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the Ceed lineup, this variant aimed to balance performance, fuel efficiency, and value. Production continued through April 2024. The facelift brought styling updates, enhanced technology, and refinements to the powertrain, building upon the foundation of the AD platform (also known as the 1HX0/A3 platform) shared with the Hyundai i30. This version was primarily marketed in Europe and other international markets, with the Ceed not being officially sold in the United States.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Kia |
| Model | Cee’d |
| Generation | Ceed III (facelift 2021) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5 T-GDI (160 Hp) |
| Start of production | October, 2021 |
| End of production | April, 2024 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 5.5-6.3 l/100 km (42.8 – 37.3 US mpg, 51.4 – 44.8 UK mpg, 18.2 – 15.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 125-142 g/km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC, WLTP equivalent) | 6.8-7.1 l/100 km (34.6 – 33.1 US mpg, 41.5 – 39.8 UK mpg, 14.7 – 14.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC, WLTP equivalent) | 4.5-5.1 l/100 km (52.3 – 46.1 US mpg, 62.8 – 55.4 UK mpg, 22.2 – 19.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC, WLTP equivalent) | 5.3-5.8 l/100 km (44.4 – 40.6 US mpg, 53.3 – 48.7 UK mpg, 18.9 – 17.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC, WLTP equivalent) | 121-132 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8 sec (Calculated) |
| Maximum speed | 210 km/h (130.49 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.8 kg/Hp, 127.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5 kg/Nm, 201.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 160 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 108 Hp/l |
| Torque | 253 Nm @ 1500-3500 rpm (186.6 lb.-ft. @ 1500-3500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | G4LH |
| Engine displacement | 1482 cm3 (90.44 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 71.6 mm (2.82 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92 mm (3.62 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.2 l (4.44 US qt | 3.7 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6.1 l (6.45 US qt | 5.37 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1255-1380 kg (2766.8 – 3042.38 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1820 kg (4012.41 lbs.) |
| Max load | 440-565 kg (970.03 – 1245.61 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%) | 1410 kg (3108.52 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 600 kg (1322.77 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4315-4325 mm (169.88 – 170.28 in.) |
| Width | 1800 mm (70.87 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2055 mm (80.91 in.) |
| Height | 1442-1447 mm (56.77 – 56.97 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2650 mm (104.33 in.) |
| Front track | 1559-1565 mm (61.38 – 61.61 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1567-1573 mm (61.69 – 61.93 in.) |
| Front overhang | 885 mm (34.84 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 780-790 mm (30.71 – 31.1 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, 305×25 mm |
| Rear brakes | Disc, 284×10 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 205/55 R16H; 225/45 R17V |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 16 ET50; 7.0J x 17 ET53 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Ceed variant is the G4LH 1.5-liter turbocharged gasoline direct injection (TGDI) engine. This engine is part of Kia/Hyundai’s Smartstream engine family, designed for improved efficiency and reduced emissions. The engine utilizes a direct injection system, injecting fuel directly into the combustion chamber for precise fuel control and enhanced performance. A single scroll turbocharger with an intercooler provides forced induction, boosting power output. The engine features a timing chain, contributing to reduced maintenance compared to timing belts. The 1.5 T-GDI engine produces 160 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 253 Nm (186.6 lb-ft) of torque between 1500 and 3500 rpm. This engine was paired with a 6-speed manual transmission in this configuration. The engine also incorporates a Start & Stop system and a particulate filter to meet stringent Euro 6d emission standards.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.5 T-GDI with the 6-speed manual transmission offers a responsive and engaging driving experience. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes approximately 8.4 seconds. The turbocharger provides a noticeable boost in power, delivering good acceleration for everyday driving and overtaking maneuvers. While not a performance-oriented variant, the 160 hp engine provides adequate power for most situations. The 6-speed manual transmission offers precise shifts and allows the driver to maintain optimal engine speed. Compared to lower-powered Ceed variants, this version provides a more spirited driving experience. However, it doesn’t match the performance of the more powerful engine options available in the Ceed lineup.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.5 T-GDI trim typically included a good level of standard equipment. Features commonly included air conditioning, a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, Bluetooth connectivity, and a suite of safety features such as lane keeping assist, forward collision avoidance assist, and automatic emergency braking. Higher trim levels offered additional features such as a larger touchscreen display, navigation system, heated seats, a panoramic sunroof, and premium audio system. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with leather options available on higher trims. Dashboard materials and trim levels varied depending on the specific trim package.
Chassis & Braking
The Ceed III utilizes a McPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. The suspension is tuned to balance comfort and stability. The front brakes are ventilated discs measuring 305x25mm, while the rear brakes are solid discs measuring 284x10mm. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is standard. The chassis is designed to provide a stable and predictable driving experience, with a focus on everyday usability.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Kia Ceed 1.5 T-GDI was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and good value for money. Compared to the base engine options, the 1.5 T-GDI offered a significant improvement in performance. Fuel economy figures ranged from 5.5 to 6.3 l/100 km (42.8 – 37.3 US mpg), depending on driving conditions and style. Compared to diesel variants, the 1.5 T-GDI offered a more refined driving experience, although diesel models typically achieved slightly better fuel economy. Reliability reports have been generally positive, with the Smartstream engine family proving to be relatively durable.
Legacy
The Kia Ceed III 1.5 T-GDI represents a step forward in Kia’s efforts to produce competitive and well-rounded vehicles. The 1.5 T-GDI engine has proven to be a reliable and efficient powerplant, and the Ceed continues to be a popular choice in the European C-segment hatchback market. On the used car market, these models are generally sought after for their balance of performance, fuel economy, and features. Proper maintenance, including regular oil changes and adherence to the manufacturer’s service schedule, is crucial for ensuring the long-term reliability of this powertrain.
