First drive: Kia Cee’d 2.0 CRDi Sport
13 August 2008
- Ford Focus challenger
- Extra kit includes stability control
- Cheaper Cee'd is better, though
The new Cee’d 2.0 CRDi Sport is Kia’ equivalent to powerful, sporty diesel models such as the Ford Focus 2.0 TDCI Zetec.
At £15,595, the Cee’d is a lot cheaper than the Ford. The problem is, it doesn’t feel worth the £1200 premium over the Cee’d 1.6 CRDi.
On the plus side, you gain extra kit, including stability control, cruise control, electric folding door mirrors, a rear armrest and metallic interior trim. There are black headlamp surrounds and larger alloys for a more aggressive look, plus tweaked suspension and steering for sharper reactions.
Unfortunately, the changes do little to improve the Cee’d’s handling – which was fine anyway – and push the already-firm ride into uncomfortable territory.
The engine isn’t as impressive as it could be, either. There isn’t a big advantage over the 1.6 diesel and it’s disappointingly lacklustre at low revs. It is refined, though.
Keenly priced as it is, the 2.0 CRDi Sport isn’t our favourite Cee’d. Cheaper models are quick enough; they have the same spacious cabin and seven-year warranty, so we’d stick with one of those.
Factfile
Price £15,995
On sale now
Engine size 2.0 CRDi
Power 138bhp
Economy50.4mpg
Co2 g/km/tax148/19%
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