When we first drove the new Kia Ceed Sportswagon in early October, it immediately impressed us with its healthy offering of style and practicality, combined with a stress-free driving experience. Now, after a week’s drive we can honestly say our first thoughts have been reinforced. It’s not often that we come across a car that’s capable of pretty much ticking all the relevant boxes, it’s a stylish car aided by led daytime running lights up front and in estate guise the Ceed is more handsome then its hatch sibling. Kia expect the Sportswagon to account for 60 per cent of Ceed sales.
There are two engines on offer to power the Ceed Sportswagon, a 1.4-litre diesel unit which offers 90hp and is priced from €21,795 and a 1.6-litre diesel variant that produces a stronger 128hp and 260Nm of torque. We test drove the later, which is also our preferred choice, the additional power makes for improved progress with passengers and luggage on board. It’s priced from €22,595 just €800 of a premium over the smaller 1.4-litre model. The standard level of equipment in the entry-level TX grade is admirable, with Bluetooth connectivity, air conditioning, heated door mirrors and body colour door handles, bumpers and mirrors all included. There’s a €1,500 premium to upgrade to the top-level EX specification, this model benefits from such additions as 16” alloy wheels, rear parking sensors, led daytime running lights, privacy glass and electric folding mirrors.
On the road the Ceed Sportswagon is planted and has ample power throughout the rev range to accommodate the vast majority of drives. It’s extremely economical, with a combined fuel consumption of 4.5l/100km (62.8mpg), it’s one of a few cars that we’ve tested this year to actually achieve a fuel consumption figure close to the manufacturer’s claims, we averaged 5.1l/100km (55.4mpg) over the course of our week long test. Our test car had a six-speed manual gearbox fitted which offers a light touch, there’s also a six-speed automatic transmission available on the 1.6-litre variant.
Sport is only in the name when it comes to the Ceed Sportswagon, whilst we are always eager to test high-powered cars the Sportswagon is one of a few that has really impressed us this year. Although we weren’t keen on the three different steering modes, Normal, Comfort and Sport, it’s just not required in a car like this, save that for the Pro_Ceed GT that’s coming next year. The Ceed is already a competent all-rounder, this Sportswagon variant increases its versatility.
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