Kia XCeed Facelift Spied Flaunting Its Modern LEDs, Days Before Its Debut

Kia is getting ready for the reveal of the facelifted XCeed on July 18, with a lightly camouflaged prototype caught by our spy photographers out in the open. The compact crossover, originally introduced in 2019, is set to receive some visual tweaks, a new GT-Line trim, and a revised lineup including mild-hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains.

The updated Kia XCeed has already been teased in a set of official sketches but this is the first time we see it in real life. Changes will be focused on the front and rear ends, which is why Kia left the rest of the bodywork uncovered. The GT-Line variant is a new addition to the range, adding a little sportiness into the mix with model-specific styling cues and larger wheels.

At the front, the highlight is the redesigned bumper with slimmer side intakes which are expected to feature an aluminum-style trim, matching the central part of the splitter. The headlights appear to be tinted with new LED graphics, while the tiger-nose grille has also been updated alongside the new Kia emblems.

At the back, the biggest change is the new LED pattern inside the taillights which makes the car look more in line with the rest of the Ceed range, which was facelifted in 2021. The rest of the design is largely carried over from the current model, setting aside a new body-coloured skidplate under the decorative exhaust trim which is fully covered in a camouflage wrap.

A closer look at some of the exterior shots reveals part of the dashboard. We can’t see much but it seems that the XCeed retains the free-standing 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, unlike the single instrument cluster/infotainment panel found in newer models like the Kia Sportage. Still, we expect software upgrades focused on connectivity, plus new trim options for the upholstery.

In line with Kia’s electrification strategy, the facelifted XCeed will be exclusively available in electrified flavour, dropping the ICE-only options from the European range. The entry-level model will most likely use the mild-hybrid 1.0-liter three-cylinder engine that is producing 118 hp (88 kW / 120 hp) in the regular Ceed. As for the flagship, it will retain the plug-in hybrid system combining a 1.6-liter petrol engine with a single electric motor. The outgoing XCeed PHEV produced a combined 139 hp (104 kW / 141 PS) and came with a 58 km (36 miles) thanks to the 8.9 kWh battery. Those figures will likely be carried over in the facelift but there is a chance Kia adds some improvements.

We will learn more about the facelifted Kia XCeed when it’s fully revealed in a couple of days.