The Kia Cee’d SW II (facelifted in 2015) 1.4 CVVT 100 Hp ISG represents an entry-level offering within the second generation of Kia’s Cee’d station wagon. Introduced in June 2015 and continuing through 2018, this variant was designed to provide an affordable and fuel-efficient option for families and individuals seeking a practical and spacious vehicle. Positioned as the base engine and transmission combination, it catered to buyers prioritizing economy over outright performance. The Cee’d SW II, built upon the JD platform (shared with the Hyundai i30), aimed to establish Kia as a more competitive player in the European compact segment, offering a compelling alternative to established brands. The “ISG” designation indicates the inclusion of Kia’s Idle Stop & Go system, a fuel-saving technology that automatically shuts off the engine when the vehicle is stationary.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Kia |
| Model | Cee’d |
| Generation | Cee’d SW II (facelift 2015) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.4 CVVT (100 Hp) ISG |
| 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) | 5.8 l/100 km (40.6 US mpg, 48.7 UK mpg, 17.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 135 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 13.0 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 13.0 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 12.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 181 km/h (112.47 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12 kg/Hp, 83.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 9 kg/Nm, 111.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 100 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 73.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 134 Nm @ 4000 rpm (98.83 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | Kappa / G4LC |
| Engine displacement | 1368 cm3 (83.48 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 72 mm (2.83 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 84 mm (3.31 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | CVVT |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.6 l (3.8 US qt | 3.17 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 5.8 l (6.13 US qt | 5.1 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1204-1349 kg (2654.37 – 2974.04 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1820 kg (4012.41 lbs.) |
| Max load | 471-616 kg (1038.38 – 1358.05 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%) | 1200 kg (2645.55 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 | 1555-1563 mm (61.22 – 61.54 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1563-1571 mm (61.54 – 61.85 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, manual transmission |
| 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 | 195/65 R15 91H; 205/55 R16 91H |
| Wheel rims size | 6; 0J x 15 ET46; 6; 5J x 16 ET50 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Cee’d SW variant is the Kia Kappa 1.4-liter (1368cc) inline-four cylinder gasoline engine, internally designated as the G4LC. This engine is a naturally aspirated unit featuring multi-point fuel injection and Kia’s Continuously Variable Valve Timing (CVVT) technology. CVVT optimizes valve timing based on engine speed and load, improving both fuel efficiency and power delivery. The engine produces 100 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 134 Nm (98.83 lb-ft) of torque at 4000 rpm. The engine’s relatively modest output is characteristic of its positioning as an economy-focused option. The engine is transversely mounted at the front of the vehicle. The transmission is a six-speed manual gearbox, chosen for its efficiency and lower cost compared to an automatic.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.4 CVVT 100 Hp engine, paired with the six-speed manual transmission, delivers adequate, but not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes approximately 13.0 seconds, and top speed is rated at 181 km/h (112.47 mph). The engine feels most comfortable in the mid-range, providing sufficient power for everyday driving situations. The gear ratios are tuned for fuel economy, meaning the engine needs to be revved to access its full potential. Compared to higher-output versions of the Cee’d SW, such as those equipped with the 1.6 GDI engine, this variant feels noticeably slower, particularly during overtaking maneuvers. However, the lighter engine weight contributes to improved handling and a more nimble feel.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.4 CVVT ISG typically came as a base trim level, often referred to as ‘1’ or ‘Base’ depending on the specific market. Standard equipment generally included air conditioning, electric front windows, a basic audio system with USB connectivity, ABS brakes, and stability control. Safety features like airbags were standard. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, and the dashboard featured a functional, if somewhat basic, design. Optional extras included alloy wheels, a more advanced audio system, rear parking sensors, and cruise control. The ISG (Idle Stop & Go) system was a key feature, automatically shutting off the engine when the vehicle came to a stop to reduce fuel consumption and emissions.
Chassis & Braking
The Cee’d SW II utilizes a McPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing a comfortable and controlled ride. The front brakes are ventilated discs, while the rear brakes are solid discs. The suspension is tuned for comfort rather than outright sportiness, prioritizing ride quality over sharp handling. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering. The steering is a rack and pinion system, providing reasonably precise steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 1.4 CVVT ISG variant of the Cee’d SW II was generally well-received as an affordable and practical option. Critics praised its fuel efficiency and spacious interior, but noted its lack of outright performance. Compared to other engines in the Cee’d lineup, such as the 1.6 GDI or the 1.7 CRDi diesel, this variant offered the lowest running costs but also the slowest acceleration. It competed directly with other entry-level compact station wagons from brands like Ford, Volkswagen, and Peugeot, offering a compelling value proposition with Kia’s industry-leading warranty.
Legacy
The Kappa 1.4 engine, in this configuration, has proven to be a relatively reliable powertrain. Common issues are generally minor and related to routine maintenance items. The ISG system, while effective at reducing fuel consumption, has been known to occasionally experience issues with the starter motor. On the used car market, the 1.4 CVVT Cee’d SW II represents a budget-friendly option for buyers seeking a practical and economical station wagon. Its affordability and Kia’s reputation for reliability make it a popular choice for first-time car buyers or those seeking a dependable family vehicle.
