These are the latest official images of the all-new Kia Cee'd, ahead of its official debut at the Geneva motor show in March. The new pictures reveal the Kia Cee’d’s interior, which Kia has given a ‘premium’ feel as the brand continues its drive to increase its desirability and sophistication.
The new Cee’d – which is longer, wider and lower than its predecessor, but has the same long wheelbase – adopts the Peter Schreyer-designed lines of other recent Kias. Daytime running lights, the use of chrome trim and the badge located on the bonnet rather than on the grille lend a more premium appearance. The cabin is said to be more driver-orientated and the materials used will heighten the car’s perceived quality.
For the interior, Kia is promising improved switchgear, touch-screen technology and enhanced ergonomics. The dashboard layout features a cockpit-like design with an aircraft-themed, driver-oriented fascia. The main control panel wraps around the steering wheel, and main control groups such as audio and aircon have been segregated in an effort to give the Cee’d a ‘big car’ feel. Kia says there are more soft-touch materials in the cabin, as well as chrome detailing on the switchgear.
Kia is seeking to strongly differentiate the three-door Kia Procee'd from the five-door and estate models. A source at Kia confirmed the goal is to give the Procee’d a more sporting pedigree, in a similar way to how Volkswagen positions the Scirocco against the more conservative Golf.
The engine line-up is yet to be confirmed, but engines will be more efficient in terms of fuel consumption and emissions. A hot hatch version of the Procee’d will feature the 1.6-litre engine from the forthcoming Hyundai Veloster Turbo, offering around 200bhp.
Kia says the five-door will be the first to go on sale in June, followed by the estate in September. The Procee’d will arrive in 2013, with the performance variant following later that year.
