Kia Ceed Hatchback (07 on) - Review

Review by Simon Harris on
Last Updated: 11 February 2010
For buyers who think Kia is merely a manufacturer of cheap cars the Cee'd will come as a real surprise. Designed for European buyers it's a huge improvement over its predecessor (the dull Cerato) and matches many of the mainstream alternatives. The styling is neat, it's spacious inside and the interior is modern and well-finished. Driver appeal isn't its strong point but it is safe and comfortable with a good range of engines including two excellent diesels. The best bit however is the seven-year/100,000 mile warranty which comes as standard on all new cars and can be transferred to subsequent owners. The Cee'd was given a mild facelift in late 2009 with changes to the exterior styling, improvements to the interior and the introduction of a new economical engine with stop/start technology called ISG. This system is used in the low-emissions EcoDynamics models. Not happy with one award, Kia has scooped two accolades with the Cee’d 1.4 VR-7. The car is well built, stylish and has huge space inside and the materials are of a good quality. It also comes with a seven-year/100,000-mile warranty. This model took the medium hatchback and more importantly the cee’d won the inaugural 2011 Parkers New Car Award after fending off strong competition from the likes of BMW, Audi and Skoda.
4 out of 5

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3.5 out of 5

Buying new

The Cee'd is keenly priced against cars like the Ford Focus and Vauxhall Astra, but don't be afraid to ask for a discount. It comes with a seven-year/100,000 mile warranty as standard which gives new buyers good peace of mind. Most similar sized cars only come with a three-year/60,000 mile warranty.

Buy a new Kia Ceed Hatchback and save 21% on selected models

4 out of 5

Buying used

Depreciation will be steepest in the first couple of years, so it may be worthwhile looking for a used version, particularly with such a comprehensive warranty. LS (later Cee'd 3) models are the best to go for if you want decent creature comforts but the basic S (later Cee'd 1) will represent excellent value if you're after a cheap runabout. If you're after a facelifted model, these were introduced in October 2009 so will be on a 59-plate or later.

See 437 used Kia Ceed Hatchbacks for sale, starting at £3,695

3 out of 5

Selling

GS (changed to Cee'd 2 in October 2009) and LS (later Cee'd 3) models will be in most demand, although all are quite well equipped. The premium you pay for a diesel will shrink on the used market, so diesels should be priced realistically to generate interest. It's worth remembering that the seven-year warranty can be transferred to a new owner - a key selling point.