The Kia Cee’d SW II (facelift, introduced in June 2015) 1.6 GDI (135 hp) DCT represents a significant iteration within the second generation of Kia’s compact estate car. Positioned as a mid-range offering in the Cee’d SW lineup, this variant aimed to balance fuel efficiency, practicality, and a more engaging driving experience than the base models. Production continued through 2018, catering primarily to the European market where the station wagon body style remains popular. This model was built on the 1HX0 platform, shared with the Hyundai i30, and represented Kia’s continued efforts to establish itself as a mainstream automotive brand with a focus on value and a 7-year warranty.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Kia |
| Model | Cee’d |
| Generation | Cee’d SW II (facelift 2015) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 GDI (135 Hp) DCT |
| Start of production | June, 2015 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.5 l/100 km (31.4 US mpg, 37.7 UK mpg, 13.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.9 l/100 km (48 US mpg, 57.6 UK mpg, 20.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.9 l/100 km (39.9 US mpg, 47.9 UK mpg, 16.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 136 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 192 km/h (119.3 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.3 kg/Hp, 107.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.6 kg/Nm, 131.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 135 Hp @ 6300 rpm |
| Power per litre | 84.9 Hp/l |
| Torque | 165 Nm @ 4850 rpm (121.7 lb.-ft. @ 4850 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | G4FD |
| Engine displacement | 1591 cm3 (97.09 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 77 mm (3.03 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 85.44 mm (3.36 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 4 l (4.23 US qt | 3.52 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 5.7 l (6.02 US qt | 5.02 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1255-1392 kg (2766.8 – 3068.83 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1850 kg (4078.55 lbs.) |
| Max load | 458-595 kg (1009.72 – 1311.75 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 528 l (18.65 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1642 l (57.99 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 53 l (14 US gal | 11.66 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 80 kg (176.37 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1300 kg (2866.01 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 600 kg (1322.77 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 60 kg (132.28 lbs.) |
| Length | 4505 mm (177.36 in.) |
| Width | 1780 mm (70.08 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2035 mm (80.12 in.) |
| Height | 1485 mm (58.46 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2650 mm (104.33 in.) |
| Front track | 1549-1555 mm (60.98 – 61.22 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1557-1563 mm (61.3 – 61.54 in.) |
| Front overhang | 900 mm (35.43 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 955 mm (37.6 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.6 m (34.78 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission DCT |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 280-300 mm |
| Rear brakes | Disc, 262-284 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 205/55 R16 91H; 225/45 R17 91V |
| Wheel rims size | 6; 5J x 16 ET50; 7; 0J x 17 ET53 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Cee’d SW variant is the Kia-developed 1.6-liter (1591 cc) G4FD inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine utilizes direct fuel injection (GDI) technology, which improves combustion efficiency and power output compared to traditional port fuel injection. The G4FD engine produces 135 horsepower at 6,300 rpm and 165 Nm (121.7 lb-ft) of torque at 4,850 rpm. The engine features a dual continuously variable valve timing (DCVVT) system, optimizing valve timing for improved performance and fuel economy across the engine’s operating range. Paired with this engine is a 6-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT). This DCT provides quicker and smoother gear changes than a traditional automatic transmission, contributing to a more responsive driving experience. The DCT’s programming prioritizes fuel efficiency, with taller gear ratios designed for relaxed highway cruising.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6 GDI DCT-equipped Cee’d SW offers a comfortable and refined driving experience. While not a performance-oriented model, the 135 hp engine provides adequate power for everyday driving situations. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph takes approximately 10.5 seconds, and the car has a top speed of 119.3 mph. The DCT transmission contributes to a more engaging feel than a traditional automatic, with quick shifts and minimal torque interruption. However, some drivers may find the DCT’s low-speed behavior slightly jerky. The suspension is tuned for comfort, providing a smooth ride over most road surfaces. The steering is light and precise, making the car easy to maneuver in urban environments. Compared to the more powerful 1.7 CRDi diesel or the higher-output gasoline variants, this 1.6 GDI model prioritizes fuel economy and refinement over outright performance.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6 GDI DCT trim typically included a good level of standard equipment. Features commonly found in this variant include air conditioning, a touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity, alloy wheels, and a suite of safety features such as ABS, ESC (Electronic Stability Control), and multiple airbags. Higher trim levels offered additional features such as a panoramic sunroof, leather upholstery, heated seats, and a more advanced infotainment system with navigation. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for partial leather. The dashboard layout was functional and well-designed, with a focus on ergonomics.
Chassis & Braking
The Cee’d SW II utilizes a McPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension. This setup provides a good balance of ride comfort and handling. The front brakes are ventilated discs, while the rear brakes are solid discs. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, providing enhanced braking performance in emergency situations. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering. The chassis is designed to provide a stable and predictable driving experience, with a focus on safety and comfort.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Kia Cee’d SW II 1.6 GDI DCT was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and good value for money. However, some critics noted that the engine lacked the punch of the diesel variants and that the DCT transmission could be slightly jerky at low speeds. Compared to rivals such as the Volkswagen Golf Estate and the Ford Focus Estate, the Cee’d SW offered a compelling alternative with a longer warranty and a competitive price point. Fuel economy figures of around 39.9 US mpg combined were competitive within its class.
Legacy
The Kia Cee’d SW II 1.6 GDI DCT has proven to be a reliable and durable vehicle. The G4FD engine is known for its longevity, and the DCT transmission, while requiring occasional maintenance, is generally robust. In the used car market, this variant represents a good value proposition for buyers seeking a practical and fuel-efficient estate car. Its 7-year warranty (originally offered by Kia) adds to its appeal, providing peace of mind for potential buyers. While not a particularly exciting vehicle, the Cee’d SW 1.6 GDI DCT remains a sensible and dependable choice for families and individuals needing a versatile and economical vehicle.
