The Kia Cee’d SW II (facelifted in 2015) 1.6 GDI, producing 135 horsepower, represents a significant iteration within the second generation of Kia’s European-focused compact estate car. Introduced in June 2015 and continuing through 2018, this variant aimed to balance fuel efficiency with reasonable performance, catering to families and individuals seeking a practical and affordable vehicle. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the Cee’d SW lineup, it slotted between the lower-powered 1.4L engine and the more performance-oriented 1.6 CRDi diesel options. The Cee’d SW II, built on the JD platform (shared with the Hyundai i30), was Kia’s attempt to establish a stronger foothold in the competitive European small family car segment.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Kia |
| Model | Cee’d |
| Generation | Cee’d SW II (facelift 2015) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 GDI (135 Hp) |
| Start of production | June, 2015 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.2 l/100 km (28.7 US mpg, 34.4 UK mpg, 12.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.1 l/100 km (46.1 US mpg, 55.4 UK mpg, 19.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.3 l/100 km (37.3 US mpg, 44.8 UK mpg, 15.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 141 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 192 km/h (119.3 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.9 kg/Hp, 112.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.2 kg/Nm, 138 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 | 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 |
| Engine oil capacity | 4 l (4.23 US qt | 3.52 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 5.8 l (6.13 US qt | 5.1 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1196-1330 kg (2636.73 – 2932.15 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1820 kg (4012.41 lbs.) |
| Max load | 490-624 kg (1080.27 – 1375.68 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 528 l (18.65 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1642 l (57.99 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 | 600 kg (1322.77 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 60 kg (132.28 lbs.) |
| Length | 4505 mm (177.36 in.) |
| Width | 1780 mm (70.08 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2035 mm (80.12 in.) |
| Height | 1485 mm (58.46 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2650 mm (104.33 in.) |
| Front track | 1549-1563 mm (60.98 – 61.54 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1557-1571 mm (61.3 – 61.85 in.) |
| Front overhang | 900 mm (35.43 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 955 mm (37.6 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; 225/45 R17 91V |
| Wheel rims size | 6; 0J x 15 ET46; 6; 5J x 16 ET50; 7; 0J x 17 ET53 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Cee’d SW variant is the Kia-developed 1.6-liter (1591 cc) G4FD inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine utilizes Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) technology, injecting fuel directly into the combustion chamber for improved efficiency and power output. The G4FD features a dual continuously variable valve timing (CVVT) system, optimizing valve timing for both intake and exhaust strokes, further enhancing performance and fuel economy. The engine produces 135 horsepower at 6300 rpm and 165 Nm (121.7 lb-ft) of torque at 4850 rpm. The engine’s relatively high compression ratio of 11:1 contributes to its efficiency. The engine is transversely mounted at the front of the vehicle. The 6-speed manual transmission was the standard offering, providing a balance between fuel economy and driver engagement.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6 GDI engine, paired with the 6-speed manual transmission, delivers adequate performance for everyday driving. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph takes approximately 9.7 seconds, and the top speed is around 119.3 mph. While not a particularly sporty setup, the engine provides sufficient power for highway cruising and overtaking maneuvers. The manual transmission offers precise shifts, and the gear ratios are well-matched to the engine’s powerband. Compared to the more powerful engines in the Cee’d lineup, this variant feels less responsive, particularly at lower speeds. However, it offers a more economical driving experience, with combined fuel consumption figures of around 37.3 US mpg. The estate body style adds weight compared to the hatchback, slightly impacting acceleration and handling.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6 GDI trim typically included standard features such as air conditioning, electric front and rear windows, a USB audio connection, Bluetooth connectivity, and a multi-function steering wheel. Safety features included ABS, ESC (Electronic Stability Control), and multiple airbags. Higher trim levels offered additional features like alloy wheels, a touchscreen infotainment system, rear parking sensors, and cruise control. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for upgraded materials on higher trims. The dashboard layout was functional and user-friendly, with a focus on practicality.
Chassis & Braking
The Cee’d SW II utilizes a McPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing a comfortable and controlled ride. The suspension is tuned for everyday driving, prioritizing comfort over outright sportiness. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, enhancing braking performance and stability. The steering is a rack and pinion system, offering precise and responsive handling. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Kia Cee’d SW II 1.6 GDI was generally well-received by automotive critics as a practical and affordable estate car. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and spacious interior. However, some critics noted that the engine lacked the punch of its turbocharged counterparts. Compared to rivals like the Volkswagen Golf Estate and Ford Focus Estate, the Cee’d SW offered a competitive price point and a generous warranty. The 1.6 GDI variant offered a compelling alternative to the diesel options, particularly for drivers who primarily commute short distances. Fuel economy was comparable to other naturally aspirated gasoline engines in its class.
Legacy
The Kia Cee’d SW II 1.6 GDI has proven to be a relatively reliable vehicle in the used car market. The G4FD engine is known for its durability, and the 6-speed manual transmission is generally trouble-free. Routine maintenance, such as oil changes and timing belt replacements, is essential to ensure long-term reliability. While not a particularly collectible model, the Cee’d SW II 1.6 GDI remains a popular choice for budget-conscious buyers seeking a practical and dependable estate car. Its combination of affordability, fuel efficiency, and spaciousness continues to make it a viable option in the used car market today.
