The Kia ProCeed III 1.6 CRDi Smartstream (136 Hp) DCT, produced from June 2018 to March 2021, represents a significant iteration of Kia’s compact estate car. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the ProCeed lineup – which included petrol and higher-performance diesel variants – this model aimed to balance fuel efficiency, practicality, and a more refined driving experience. It’s built on the 1HX0 platform, shared with the Hyundai i30 and other models within the Hyundai-Kia group. The ProCeed, unlike its predecessor the cee’d SW, was marketed as a more stylish and sophisticated alternative, targeting buyers seeking a blend of practicality and design. This variant specifically catered to those prioritizing economy and comfort, making it a popular choice in European markets.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Kia |
| Model | ProCeed |
| Generation | ProCeed III |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 CRDi Smartstream (136 Hp) DCT |
| Start of production | June, 2018 |
| End of production | March, 2021 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 4.4-4.6 l/100 km (53.5 – 51.1 US mpg, 64.2 – 61.4 UK mpg, 22.7 – 21.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4-4.1 l/100 km (58.8 – 57.4 US mpg, 70.6 – 68.9 UK mpg, 25 – 24.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.2-4.3 l/100 km (56 – 54.7 US mpg, 67.3 – 65.7 UK mpg, 23.8 – 23.3 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 109-111 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 200 km/h (124.27 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d-TEMP |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.2 kg/Hp, 97.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.3 kg/Nm, 230.2 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 136 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Torque | 320 Nm @ 2000-2250 rpm (236.02 lb.-ft. @ 2000-2250 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | D4FE |
| Engine displacement | 1598 cm3 (97.52 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 77 mm (3.03 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 85.8 mm (3.38 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 15.9:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.4 l (4.65 US qt | 3.87 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 7.7 l (8.14 US qt | 6.78 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1390-1496 kg (3064.43 – 3298.12 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1920 kg (4232.88 lbs.) |
| Max load | 424-530 kg (934.76 – 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%) | 1500 kg (3306.93 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 650 kg (1433 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 track | 1563-1567 mm (61.54 – 61.69 in.) |
| Front overhang | 885 mm (34.84 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1070 mm (42.13 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 135 mm (5.31 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10 m (32.81 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | 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 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this ProCeed variant is the 1.6-liter (1598cc) D4FE inline-four cylinder diesel engine. This engine is part of Kia/Hyundai’s ‘Smartstream’ family, designed for improved efficiency and reduced emissions. It utilizes a second-generation common-rail direct injection system, operating at a high pressure of 2,200 bar, for precise fuel delivery and optimized combustion. The engine also features a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT) and an intercooler to enhance power and torque across the rev range. The D4FE engine boasts a compression ratio of 15.9:1 and a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. Paired with this engine is a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT). This DCT provides quicker and smoother gear changes compared to a traditional automatic transmission, contributing to both performance and fuel economy. The DCT’s programming prioritizes efficiency, with taller gear ratios for highway cruising.
Driving Characteristics
The 136 hp and 320 Nm (236 lb-ft) of torque delivered by the 1.6 CRDi engine, combined with the 7-speed DCT, results in a comfortable and capable driving experience. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes approximately 9.6 seconds, and top speed is rated at 124 mph. While not a performance-oriented setup, the engine provides ample torque for everyday driving and overtaking maneuvers. The DCT transmission contributes to a responsive feel, although some drivers may notice slight hesitation at low speeds. Compared to the higher-output diesel variants (like the 1.7 CRDi), this version offers a more relaxed driving experience, prioritizing fuel efficiency over outright speed. The DCT’s gear ratios are tuned for economy, meaning the engine doesn’t always feel as eager to rev as it might in a manual transmission version.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6 CRDi Smartstream DCT trim typically included a generous level of standard equipment. Features commonly found in this variant include 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 hill-start assist. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for leather upgrades. Higher trim levels within the ProCeed range offered additional features like a panoramic sunroof, heated seats, and a premium audio system. The dashboard layout was modern and driver-focused, with a clear instrument cluster and intuitive controls.
Chassis & Braking
The ProCeed III utilizes a McPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing a good balance between ride comfort and handling. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both axles to reduce body roll during cornering. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is standard, along with Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and Traction Control System (TCS). The steering is electrically assisted, providing a light and precise feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Kia ProCeed III 1.6 CRDi Smartstream DCT was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and spacious interior. However, some reviewers noted that the engine could feel slightly underpowered when fully loaded or tackling steep inclines. Compared to the petrol variants, the diesel offered significantly better fuel economy, making it a popular choice for high-mileage drivers. Against competitors like the Volkswagen Golf Estate and Skoda Octavia Combi, the ProCeed offered a compelling value proposition, with a generous level of standard equipment and a long warranty.
Legacy
The 1.6 CRDi Smartstream engine, when paired with the 7-speed DCT, has proven to be a relatively reliable powertrain. While diesel engines, in general, have faced increased scrutiny regarding emissions, the D4FE engine meets Euro 6d-TEMP standards. On the used car market, ProCeed models with this engine and transmission combination are sought after for their fuel efficiency and practicality. Regular maintenance, including oil changes and filter replacements, is crucial for ensuring long-term reliability. The DCT transmission requires periodic servicing to maintain optimal performance. Overall, the Kia ProCeed III 1.6 CRDi Smartstream DCT represents a well-rounded and dependable estate car that continues to offer good value in the used car market.
