The Kia ProCeed III 1.5 T-GDI (160 Hp) DCT represents a specific configuration within the third generation of Kia’s ProCeed model, produced briefly between March and September of 2021. Positioned as a mid-range offering, this variant combined a turbocharged gasoline engine with a dual-clutch transmission (DCT) in a practical, European-focused station wagon (estate) body style. It was designed to appeal to buyers seeking a balance of performance, fuel efficiency, and modern technology within the broader ProCeed lineup, which also included milder engine options and performance-oriented GT models. The ProCeed III, built on the 1HX0 platform shared with the Hyundai i30, aimed to provide a more stylish and engaging alternative to traditional compact family cars.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Kia |
| Model | Pro Cee’d |
| Generation | ProCeed III |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5 T-GDI (160 Hp) DCT |
| Start of production | March, 2021 |
| End of production | September, 2021 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 5.8-6.1 l/100 km (40.6 – 38.6 US mpg, 48.7 – 46.3 UK mpg, 17.2 – 16.4 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 131-138 g/km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC, WLTP equivalent) | 6.4-6.9 l/100 km (36.8 – 34.1 US mpg, 44.1 – 40.9 UK mpg, 15.6 – 14.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC, WLTP equivalent) | 4.6-5.2 l/100 km (51.1 – 45.2 US mpg, 61.4 – 54.3 UK mpg, 21.7 – 19.2 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) | 119-132 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 210 km/h (130.49 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.4 kg/Hp, 118.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.3 kg/Nm, 187.4 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 | Smartstream / 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 |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| 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 | 1350-1451 kg (2976.24 – 3198.91 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1880 kg (4144.69 lbs.) |
| Max load | 429-530 kg (945.78 – 1168.45 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 594 l (20.98 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1545 l (54.56 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 | 4605 mm (181.3 in.) |
| Width | 1800 mm (70.87 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2055 mm (80.91 in.) |
| Height | 1422 mm (55.98 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2650 mm (104.33 in.) |
| Front track | 1555-1559 mm (61.22 – 61.38 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1563-1567 mm (61.54 – 61.69 in.) |
| Front overhang | 885 mm (34.84 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1070 mm (42.13 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 | 7 gears, automatic transmission DCT |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| 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 | 225/45 R17; 225/40 ZR18 |
| Wheel rims size | 7J x 17; 7.5J x 18 |
INTRODUCTION
The Kia ProCeed III 1.5 T-GDI DCT, launched in 2021, was a key component of Kia’s strategy to offer a more emotionally appealing and practical alternative to traditional hatchback and sedan models in the European market. Building upon the success of the previous ProCeed generations, the third iteration adopted a shooting brake (wagon) body style, emphasizing style and versatility. This particular variant, powered by the 1.5-liter turbocharged gasoline engine paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, aimed to deliver a balance of performance and efficiency, appealing to drivers who prioritized a refined driving experience and modern features. It sat in the middle of the ProCeed range, offering more power than the base engine options but remaining more accessible than the high-performance GT model.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the ProCeed III 1.5 T-GDI DCT lies Kia’s Smartstream G4LH engine. This 1482cc (90.44 cu. in.) inline-four cylinder engine utilizes direct fuel injection and a single scroll turbocharger with an intercooler to produce 160 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 253 Nm (186.6 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1500 and 3500 rpm. The engine features a relatively high compression ratio of 10.5:1 and a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. The Smartstream engine family is designed for improved thermal efficiency and reduced emissions. The seven-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT) provides quick and smooth gear changes, enhancing both acceleration and fuel economy. This DCT is known for its responsiveness and ability to seamlessly shift between gears, contributing to a more engaging driving experience compared to a traditional automatic transmission.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.5 T-GDI DCT powertrain delivers a respectable driving experience. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes approximately 8.8 seconds, while 0-60 mph is achieved in around 8.4 seconds. The engine provides ample power for everyday driving situations, with the turbocharger providing a noticeable boost in acceleration when needed. The DCT contributes to a responsive feel, allowing for quick downshifts and smooth upshifts. Compared to the base engine options, the 1.5 T-GDI offers significantly more power and torque, resulting in a more confident and enjoyable driving experience. However, it doesn’t match the outright performance of the ProCeed GT, which boasts a more powerful engine and sport-tuned suspension. The gear ratios are tuned for a balance of acceleration and fuel efficiency, with taller gears for highway cruising and shorter gears for quicker acceleration in urban environments.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The ProCeed III 1.5 T-GDI DCT typically came equipped with a generous array of standard features. These included air conditioning, a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, Bluetooth connectivity, and a suite of safety features such as autonomous emergency braking, lane keeping assist, and driver attention warning. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for leather upgrades. Higher trim levels offered additional features such as a larger touchscreen display, a premium sound system, heated seats, and a panoramic sunroof. The dashboard layout was modern and driver-focused, with a clean and intuitive design.
Chassis & Braking
The ProCeed III utilizes a McPherson strut front suspension with a coil spring and anti-roll bar, providing a comfortable and controlled ride. The rear suspension features an independent multi-link setup with a stabilizer bar, further enhancing handling and stability. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at the front (305x25mm) and solid discs at the rear (284x10mm). The car is equipped with an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) as standard. The suspension tuning is geared towards providing a balance of comfort and handling, making it suitable for both daily commuting and longer journeys.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Kia ProCeed III 1.5 T-GDI DCT was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its stylish design, spacious interior, and refined driving experience. The 1.5 T-GDI engine was considered a good compromise between performance and fuel efficiency. Compared to other trims in the ProCeed lineup, this variant offered a more engaging driving experience than the base engine options while remaining more affordable than the GT model. Fuel economy figures of 5.8-6.1 l/100 km (40.6 – 38.6 US mpg) were competitive within its class. Reliability reports have been generally positive, with few major issues reported with the powertrain.
Legacy
The Kia ProCeed III 1.5 T-GDI DCT, despite its short production run, represents a significant step forward in Kia’s design and engineering capabilities. The Smartstream engine and DCT transmission have proven to be reliable and efficient, and the ProCeed’s stylish design continues to appeal to buyers in the used car market. While not as sought-after as the GT model, the 1.5 T-GDI DCT offers a compelling combination of practicality, performance, and value, making it a solid choice for those seeking a versatile and modern compact wagon.
