KIA cee'd 2009-2012 Photos, engines & full specs

The cee'd was the biggest breakthrough for the Korean car-maker Kia. It was launched just before the world economic crisis and it offered more than anyone expected. In 2009 it received a facelift.

The cee'd was designed and engineered for the European market. It was even built in Europe in a new, modern, factory. The compact hatchback stormed the market and the demands overwhelmed the production speed. Its main attributes were the decent pricing policy, the 7-years warranty, and the car's technical features. The design was another plus point. In 2009, all of the above, apart from the warranty, were enhanced.

There was a new design trend in the European C-segment market. The car received a new headlight design and a new grille. The LED-look taillights were re-designed accordingly, to match the front end. The overall length of the car was increased with 25 mm (0.98”) due to its bigger front and rear bumpers. A new set of light-alloy wheels of 16” or 17” were added to the options list.

Inside, a new four-spoke steering wheel design was installed and the three-cylinder design for the instrument cluster enhanced the driver's experience. Unlike the pre-facelifted version, it now featured an amber light for all the dials and buttons from the center stack. The latter received a new button layout as well. The material quality was enhanced. A full-leather upholstery and carbon-fiber trims were available on the options list.

Five engines were on the drivetrain list, with a new, 1.6-liter turbodiesel unit. The power range available for the compact-sized vehicle was between 90 and 143 hp. The 2009 Kia cee'd was available with a choice of 5- or 6-speed manual transmission fitted as standard, and automatic gearboxes for selected engines.