New Kia Ceed and updated Kia Optima make Geneva Motor Show debut

By Matt De Prez

6 March 2018

Kia has unveiled its latest versions of the Ceed and Optima at the 2018 Geneva Motor Show.

Taking centre stage, the new Kia Ceed and Ceed Sportswagon make their world debuts.

The third-generation Ceed and Ceed Sportswagon are designed, developed, engineered and built in Europe. They promise new technologies and a more engaging drive.

Lower and wider than its predecessor, the new Ceed boasts a contemporary design. Standard ‘ice cube’ LED daytime running lights echo the appearance of earlier Ceed GT and GT Line models.

The Ceed Sportswagon offers cargo capacity of 600 litres, while the hatchback offers 395 litres of cargo space.

Three petrol engines are available: A 1.0-litre T-GDi producing 120PS; a new 1.4-litre T-GDi producing 140PS; and a 100PS 1.4-litre MPi.

Kia’s all-new ‘U3’ diesel engine is also available with a choice of power outputs (115 and 136ps).

The Ceed is available with Kia’s latest Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) including a new Driver Attention Warning (DAW) system which combats distracted or drowsy driving by monitoring a number of inputs from the vehicle and driver. Other ADAS features include High Beam Assist, Lane Keeping Assist and Forward Collision Warning with Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist.

The new Ceed hatchback will go on sale across Europe at the end of Q2 2018, while Sportswagon models will be available during the Q4. Both models will continue to offer Kia’s seven-year, 100,000 mile warranty.

Upgraded Optima

Enhancing the Optima range is the choice of two new powertrains. The 1.6-litre CRDi diesel, which replaces the existing 1.7-litre unit, and 1.6-litre T-GDi petrol.

Revised bumper designs and new front and rear lamps clean up the styling. The grille is now finished in bright chrome and the Optima GT Line benefits from new 18-inch alloy wheels and dual twin exhausts.

The Optima is available with Kia’s latest seven- or eight-inch touchscreen infotainment system, with navigation and Kia Connected services.

A range of new ADAS systems are also available, to avoid or mitigate the effects of collisions.

The new Optima comes with same Driver Attention Warning (DAW) system available in the new Ceed, as well as other safety features including: Forward Collision-avoidance Assist (FCA), Lane Keeping Assist (LKA); High Beam Assist (HBA), and full LED headlamps with Dynamic Bending Light.

The upgraded Optima sedan and Sportswagon will be available in Europe from Q3 2018.