Kia Ireland launches Ceed Sportwagon, improved Sportage

Kia has launched the wagon derivative of its new generation Kia Ceed at a starting price of €25,295, write Trish Whelan and Brian Byrne.

Features of the Ceed Sportwagon include a cargo capacity which is larger than many D-segment tourers and the 7-year/150,000km Kia warranty. The car is wider and lower, and is longer than its predecessor in large part due to an extended rear overhang which allows for the 600L cargo capacity — a 14pc increase.

Power options are a 120hp turbo 1.0 petrol engine, and a new 1.6 diesel with 115hp, both with a 6-speed manual transmission.

Both engines go beyond the new strict requirements of the Euro 6d TEMP emissions standard, and the petrol engine includes a gasoline particulate filter.

One trim level is available at launch, which includes a suite of driver assistance and safety systems.

A revised 2019 MY Sportage has also been introduced, with external changes that include a more distinctive front end and enhancements to the rear. There are also interior refreshes, and pricing starts at €29,495.

Woo Jai Kim, President, Kia Motors Ireland; and James Brooks, MD of Kia Motors Ireland.

James Brooks, MD of Kia Ireland, said at the launch that the more important improvement is the introduction of the new 1.6 diesel, which allows the vehicle to go beyond the emissions requirements for the new WLTP standard due in 12 months' time.

The engine is available in Sportage in 115hp and 136hp, the latter for the automatic version.

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