Kia reveals plug-in hybrid versions of the Xceed and Ceed Sportswagon

Kia Motors has taken the next step in its vehicle electrification strategy with the unveiling of new plug-in hybrid variants of the Kia XCeed and Ceed Sportswagon. Due to go on sale across Europe at the beginning of 2020, the two new low-emissions models represent the first time Kia has brought electrified powertrains to the compact family segment.

The Kia XCeed and Ceed Sportswagon plug-in hybrid will be built in Zilina, Slovakia - the first plug-in models built by the brand in Europe. Built exclusively for Europe, sales of these new models will commence at the beginning of 2020.

The new plug-in-hybrids utilise a powertrain that combines an 8.9kWh lithium-polymer battery pack, a 59bhp electric motor, and an efficient 1.6-litre 'Kappa' four-cylinder GDI engine.

Combined, the powertrain's total power and torque output is 139bhp and 265Nm, enabling the Ceed Sportswagon to accelerate from zero to 100km/h in 10.8 seconds, while the Kia XCeed does the same in 11.0 seconds.

The powertrain is paired with a six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, while regenerative braking technology will allow the new plug-in hybrid models to harvest kinetic energy and recharge their battery packs while coasting or braking, further enhancing the overall efficiency of the powertrain.

Kia is targeting an all electric range of 60km for both vehicles, enabling drivers to complete the majority of daily drives and short commutes on electric power alone.

On the inside, both vehicles are equipped with a charging indicator which tells owners that their car is charging or when the battery is fully charged. Its location on top of the dashboard means drivers can instantly ascertain the car's state of charge at a glance from outside the car.

Both cars offer Kia's 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment, or an optional 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment and navigation system with Kia's UVO Connect telematics.

Unique to the new plug-in hybrid variants, the systems incorporate new functionality to help owners locate available charging points in their vicinity, or along the way to their navigation destination.

The instrument cluster also features unique visuals for the plug-in hybrid powertrain, displaying remaining charge levels, anticipated electric-only range and the flow of energy between the battery pack, engine and electric motor.

As a plug-in hybrid, the Ceed Sportswagon - the most practical iteration of the Ceed range - provides 437 litres of luggage space, and up to 1,506 litres with the 40:20:40 split-fold rear seats folded down, while luggage capacity in the Kia XCeed Plug-in Hybrid is 291 litres, growing to 1,243 litres with the rear seats folded down.

There is a dedicated space beneath the boot floor of each car to store the charging cable when not in use.