The Kia Cee’d SW I 1.6 CRDi (115 hp) was a station wagon variant produced by the South Korean manufacturer Kia between 2007 and 2009. It represented Kia’s entry into the European compact estate market, built upon the Cee’d platform (internally designated ED) which was a significant departure for the brand, moving production to Europe – specifically, Slovakia. This model aimed to offer a practical and affordable alternative to established European rivals, emphasizing value for money and a generous warranty. The 1.6 CRDi 115 hp version occupied a mid-range position within the Cee’d SW lineup, offering a balance between fuel efficiency and acceptable performance for everyday driving.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Kia |
| Model | Cee’d |
| Generation | Cee’d SW I |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 CRDi (115 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2007 |
| End of production | 2009 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 5.9 l/100 km (39.9 US mpg, 47.9 UK mpg, 16.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 4.3 l/100 km (54.7 US mpg, 65.7 UK mpg, 23.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 4.9 l/100 km (48 US mpg, 57.6 UK mpg, 20.4 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 128 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 188 km/h (116.82 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.3 kg/Hp, 81 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.6 kg/Nm, 179.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 115 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 72.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 255 Nm @ 1900-2750 rpm (188.08 lb.-ft. @ 1900-2750 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 | 6.3 l (6.66 US qt | 5.54 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1419-1502 kg (3128.36 – 3311.34 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1920 kg (4232.88 lbs.) |
| Max load | 418-501 kg (921.53 – 1104.52 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 534 l (18.86 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1664 l (58.76 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%) | 1400 kg (3086.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 550 kg (1212.54 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4470 mm (175.98 in.) |
| Width | 1790 mm (70.47 in.) |
| Height | 1490 mm (58.66 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2650 mm (104.33 in.) |
| Front track | 1546 mm (60.87 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1544 mm (60.79 in.) |
| Front overhang | 865 mm (34.06 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 955 mm (37.6 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.3-10.8 m (33.79 – 35.43 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 | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension, Transverse stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 280 mm |
| Rear brakes | Disc, 262 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 185/65 R15; 195/65 R15; 205/55 R16; 225/45 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 5.5J x 15; 6J x 16; 7J x 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Cee’d SW 1.6 CRDi utilized the Kia D4FB engine, a 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine. This engine was part of Kia’s ‘U’ engine family, known for its relatively simple design and robust construction. The D4FB featured a common-rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressure for improved combustion efficiency and reduced emissions. A turbocharger with an intercooler was employed to boost power output. The engine employed a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, optimizing gas flow. The engine’s 17.3:1 compression ratio was typical for a diesel engine, contributing to its thermal efficiency. The 115 hp version of the D4FB was tuned for fuel economy and drivability rather than outright performance. The engine was transversely mounted in the front of the vehicle, driving the front wheels.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6 CRDi 115 hp engine, paired with a five-speed manual transmission, provided adequate, but not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took around 11.1 seconds, and top speed was approximately 116.82 mph. The engine’s 255 Nm (188 lb-ft) of torque, available from 1900-2750 rpm, provided reasonable pulling power for everyday driving and overtaking maneuvers. Compared to the more powerful 2.0-liter CRDi variants, the 1.6 felt less responsive, particularly at higher speeds. However, the 1.6 CRDi offered a smoother and more refined driving experience than the base 1.4-liter gasoline engine. The gear ratios were optimized for fuel efficiency, resulting in a slightly ‘stretched’ feel, requiring more frequent gear changes to maintain momentum.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6 CRDi 115 hp Cee’d SW typically came equipped with air conditioning, electric front windows, a radio/CD player, and central locking as standard. Safety features included ABS brakes, front airbags, and seatbelt pretensioners. Higher trim levels, such as the ‘2’ or ‘3’ variants, added features like alloy wheels, rear electric windows, a trip computer, and upgraded interior trim. Optional extras included a sunroof, parking sensors, and a more advanced audio system. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a functional and durable design. The dashboard layout was straightforward and user-friendly.
Chassis & Braking
The Cee’d SW featured independent suspension all around, with a McPherson strut setup at the front and a multi-link system at the rear. This configuration provided a comfortable ride and decent handling characteristics. The front brakes were ventilated discs, while the rear brakes were solid discs. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard. The suspension was tuned for comfort rather than sporty handling, prioritizing ride quality over sharp cornering. A transverse stabilizer bar was included at the rear to reduce body roll.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Kia Cee’d SW 1.6 CRDi was generally well-received by automotive critics as a practical and affordable estate car. It was praised for its spacious interior, generous warranty, and fuel efficiency. However, some reviewers noted that the engine lacked outright power and refinement compared to some of its European rivals. Compared to the higher-output 2.0 CRDi models, the 1.6 CRDi offered significantly better fuel economy but at the expense of performance. The 1.6 CRDi was positioned as an entry-level or mid-range option, appealing to buyers who prioritized practicality and value for money over performance.
Legacy
The Kia Cee’d SW 1.6 CRDi proved to be a reliable and durable vehicle. The D4FB engine, while not known for being particularly exciting, was generally robust and capable of high mileage with proper maintenance. In the used car market, these models represent a good value proposition, offering a spacious and practical estate car at an affordable price. Common issues are typically related to wear and tear, such as clutch replacement and suspension component wear. The Cee’d SW played a significant role in establishing Kia as a credible player in the European automotive market, demonstrating the brand’s commitment to quality and value.
