
Kia Motors Ireland is extending their plug-in hybrid range with the arrival of the new Kia Ceed SW (Sportswagon) PHEV, which will be in Kia dealerships when they reopen next month. Based on the practical Kia Ceed SW estate model, the new plug-in hybrid version will use a petrol electric plug-in hybrid powertrain to offer buyers a lower CO2 emitting vehicle.
The new Kia Ceed SW plug-in hybrid will go on sale from €28,450, including the SEAI grant. It uses the same technology as the recently launched Kia XCeed plug-in hybrid, which we reviewed earlier this year on Changing Lanes.
The car is powered by a combination of 1.6-litre petrol engine, 8.9 kWh battery and an electric motor to produce 141 hp and 265 Nm. The powertrain is paired with a six-speed double-clutch automatic transmission. With the ability to charge, buyers can drive the Ceed SW on electric power alone for up to 47 kilometres (WLTP). CO2 emissions are rated at 33 g meaning that the new Ceed SW will qualify for motor tax of €140 in Ireland from January.
Cosmetically, the Ceed PHEV is distinguished by a new closed ‘tiger-nose’ grille at the front of the car to aid aerodynamic efficiency. The charging port is integrated into the left front wing of the car. It comes as standard with 17″ aluminium alloy wheels as well as 8” infotainment screen, push button start, electronic parking brake, wireless phone charging and smart cruise control.
The Ceed SW PHEV was engineered from the start to accommodate its new hybrid powertrain, which means that there has been minimal impact on packaging. The 8.9 kWh battery pack is located alongside the 37-litre fuel tank beneath the rear bench, so that it does not take up valuable cargo space. The SW provides 437 litres of luggage space, and up to 1,506 litres with the 40:20:40 split-fold rear seats folded down and a dedicated space beneath the boot floor to store the charging cable when not in use.
The new Kia Ceed SW PHEV will join Kia’s growing line-up of electrified vehicles, including the all electric e-Niro and e-Soul, the XCeed plug-in hybrid, the Niro plug-in hybrid, and soon to arrive Kia Sorento plug-in hybrid.
