New Kia Ceed Set To Get A 48-Volt Mild Hybrid Version Next Year

Kia is planning to partially electrify the new Ceed model but their plan doesn’t include a full electric variant.

The Korean automaker will offer a 48-volt mild hybrid version of the new Ceed starting from next year, along with the regular petrol and diesel models according to Kia Europe’s COO Michael Cole who spoke to Automotive News.

Kia is also examining the possibility of a plug-in hybrid Ceed but they have rejected the idea of a full electric version. Also the all-new Ceed has ditched the three-door bodystyle for this generation due to poor demand and instead will get a sporty shooting brake wagon version later on, which sounds great.

The new Kia Ceed rides on the company’s fresh K2 platform which enables more efficient packaging. The new generation is also getting a new turbocharged 1.4-liter petrol with 140hp and a new 1.6-liter diesel with two outputs, at 115PS and 136PS.

The new platform’s benefits can already be seen from the adoption of Kia’s semi-autonomous Lane Follow Assist system which becomes available for the first time in Europe.

Production of the all-new Kia Ceed will start this May at the company’s Zilina factory in Slovakia but before then, the new Korean Golf rival will make its public premiere at the upcoming Geneva Motor Show.