Kia recently confirmed plans to introduce the
all-new Ceed at the Geneva Motor Show releasing a teaser rendering, but now
we’re getting a better look at the car’s interior. Once drivers are
ensconced behind the thick-rimmed steering wheel, they’ll notice the cabin has
made significant strides in terms of quality and design. The oddly shaped
dashboard has been jettisoned while material quality appears much better than
before.
Getting into specifics, we can see a new instrument
cluster which has a small digital display that is flanked by two analog gauges.
To the right of the cluster is a freestanding infotainment system which resides
above new switchgear with a more premium appearance. Other notable features
include two-tone seats and a tasteful amount of metallic trim.
This particular prototype is heavily camouflaged but
previous photos have shown the model will have a sportier front fascia with
prominent air intakes and LED-infused headlights. Kia has said the model was
influenced by the Stinger and the resulting design gives the car a “mature and
athletic” appearance.
Kia has already confirmed the model will be offered
with an assortment of new engines and choices are expected to carryover from
the Hyundai i30. This means petrol options may include a turbocharged 1.0-liter
three-cylinder with 120 PS and a turbocharged 1.4-liter four-cylinder
with 140 PS. There could also be a 1.6-liter diesel with outputs of
110 PS and 136 PS.
Regardless of what’s under the hood, Kia says
engineers have improved the Ceed’s ride and handling characteristics. The
company says this will result in new levels of “dynamism, driver engagement and
refinement.”
The Ceed hatchback will be unveiled “alongside a
second member of the Ceed family” next month and it will most likely be the
Sportswagon variant.
