The Kia Pro Cee’d I (facelift, 2011) 1.6 CRDi 16V, producing 90 horsepower, was a key variant in Kia’s European lineup during its production run from 2011 to 2013. Positioned as an entry-level diesel option within the Pro Cee’d three-door hatchback range, it aimed to provide fuel efficiency and reasonable performance for cost-conscious buyers. This model represented Kia’s growing ambition to compete with established European manufacturers in the compact segment, offering a compelling package of features and a lengthy warranty. It was built on the 1HX0 platform, shared with the Hyundai i30.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Kia |
| Model | Pro Cee’d |
| Generation | Pro Cee’d I (facelift 2011) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 CRDi 16V (90 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2011 |
| End of production | 2013 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 4.9 l/100 km (48 US mpg, 57.6 UK mpg, 20.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4 l/100 km (58.8 US mpg, 70.6 UK mpg, 25 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.3 l/100 km (54.7 US mpg, 65.7 UK mpg, 23.3 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 14 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 14 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 13.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 172 km/h (106.88 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 15.1 kg/Hp, 66.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.8 kg/Nm, 173 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 90 Hp |
| Power per litre | 56.9 Hp/l |
| Torque | 235 Nm @ 1750 rpm (173.33 lb.-ft. @ 1750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | D4FB |
| Engine displacement | 1582 cm3 (96.54 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| 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 capacity | 6.3 l (6.66 US qt | 5.54 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1358 kg (2993.88 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1860 kg (4100.6 lbs.) |
| Max load | 502 kg (1106.72 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 340 l (12.01 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1210 l (42.73 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 53 l (14 US gal | 11.66 UK gal) |
| Length | 4250 mm (167.32 in.) |
| Width | 1790 mm (70.47 in.) |
| Height | 1450 mm (57.09 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2650 mm (104.33 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.34 m (33.92 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | ICE, Front Wheel Drive |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Gearbox type | Manual transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 185/65 R15; 195/65 R15; 205/55 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 15; 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Pro Cee’d variant is the Kia D4FB 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine. This engine is part of Kia’s U-Line family of diesel engines, known for their relatively simple design and durability. The D4FB utilizes a second-generation common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressures for optimized combustion. A turbocharger with an intercooler is employed to boost power output and improve torque across a wider rev range. The engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, contributing to efficient gas exchange. The 90 horsepower output is achieved at 4,000 rpm, while the peak torque of 235 Nm (173 lb-ft) is available from a low 1,750 rpm, providing good responsiveness for everyday driving. The engine is transversely mounted in the front of the vehicle. The 6-speed manual transmission was the standard offering for this trim, chosen for its efficiency and affordability.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6 CRDi 90 hp Pro Cee’d offered a practical and economical driving experience. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph took around 13.3 seconds, and top speed was approximately 107 mph. While not particularly sporty, the engine’s strong low-end torque made it well-suited for urban driving and overtaking on slower roads. The 6-speed manual transmission was well-matched to the engine’s characteristics, providing smooth gear changes and allowing the driver to keep the engine in its optimal power band. Compared to the more powerful 1.6 CRDi variants (typically around 128 hp) or the petrol engines, this version prioritized fuel economy over outright performance. The gear ratios were tuned for maximizing fuel efficiency, resulting in a slightly less engaging driving experience than its higher-powered siblings.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 90 hp 1.6 CRDi Pro Cee’d typically came with a reasonable level of standard equipment. This included air conditioning, electric front windows, a radio/CD player with MP3 compatibility, central locking, and ABS brakes. Safety features such as driver and passenger airbags were also standard. Higher trim levels, such as the ‘2’ or ‘3’ trims, added features like alloy wheels, a trip computer, electric rear windows, and upgraded audio systems. Optional extras included a sunroof, parking sensors, and leather upholstery. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a functional and durable design. The dashboard layout was straightforward and user-friendly, with clearly labeled controls.
Chassis & Braking
The Pro Cee’d’s chassis was tuned for comfort and stability. The front suspension utilized MacPherson struts, while the rear suspension employed a coupled torsion beam setup. This configuration provided a good balance between ride quality and handling. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs on the front wheels and solid discs on the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, enhancing braking performance and safety. The steering was a rack and pinion system, providing precise and responsive steering feel. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Kia Pro Cee’d 1.6 CRDi 90 hp was generally well-received by automotive critics as a value-for-money option. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and generous warranty. However, some reviewers noted that the engine lacked the punch of its more powerful counterparts. Compared to rivals like the Volkswagen Golf, Ford Focus, and Vauxhall Astra, the Pro Cee’d offered a competitive package at a lower price point. Fuel economy was a key strength, consistently achieving combined figures of around 54.7 US mpg. Reliability was also a positive aspect, with the D4FB engine proving to be relatively robust.
Legacy
The Kia Pro Cee’d I 1.6 CRDi 90 hp has proven to be a reliable and durable vehicle in the used car market. The D4FB engine, while not the most powerful, is known for its longevity and relatively low maintenance costs. Common issues are typically related to wear and tear items such as clutch components, suspension bushings, and brake pads. The availability of spare parts is good, and the relatively simple engine design makes it accessible for independent mechanics. Today, these Pro Cee’ds represent an affordable and economical option for buyers seeking a practical and fuel-efficient hatchback.
