Just say the name Kia Pro Cee`d out loud, and any conversation, no matter the topic, will immediately turn to this car.
The Koreans first showcased the three-door concept in Paris in 2006. And even then, the concept drew many interested glances — from both journalists and future buyers. The only concern, as is often the case, was that the production version could lose all the charm of the prototype on its way to the assembly line. But with the Pro Cee`d, fortunately, this did not happen. Or, at least, almost did not.
Even though it is based on the five-door hatchback, the three-door looks noticeably livelier and more interesting than its donor. The new grille with fine mesh, a bumper that widens toward the bottom, headlights with a menacing squint, a bold stamping that runs from one wheel arch to the other, a lowered roofline, and a differently angled rear pillar — all of this makes the appearance more aggressive. And contrary to tradition, the three-door Pro Cee`d turned out to be longer than its five-door sibling. This benefited both the looks and the interior space.
The cabin, however, has hardly changed — it is almost the same as in the five-door. And here, the drive that the exterior breathes is completely absent. In this regard, the concept was far more interesting. Inside, it is calm and cozy, and only the huge door and the seatbelt that you have to reach far back for remind you that you are in a three-door hatchback. And a glance at the center tunnel makes it even more dreary.
The four-speed automatic just did not match the image that the exterior promised. To be fair, the Pro Cee`d can also be had with a five- or six-speed manual. Hope remained in the engine — one of the most powerful for this model: a two-liter, 143-horsepower unit.
But as soon as you set off, all doubts about this combination dissipated. The Pro Cee`d turned out to be surprisingly lively. With a manual gearbox, it would, of course, be more fun, but the automatic does not let the car down and fully matches the character built into it. But the most pleasant part is not even the acceleration. The solid wheelbase provides, if not exemplary, then at least proper handling. The suspension, like that of the five-door, is fully independent, but for the sake of stability and poise, it has been additionally tightened. Passengers are unlikely to like this tuning, but the driver will be in sheer delight. Even in long corners, you can confidently add throttle without fear of losing control.
In short, once you take a ride in the Kia Pro Cee`d, you will remember it for a long time. And not only because of the prefix in the name — the car itself invites conversation.
Trim levels
The Pro Cee`d is sold in three versions — LX, EX, and TX, and is also available in twelve body colors. Additionally, optional styling elements are offered to make your car stand out. For the three-door, you can order a sport package: stiffer suspension, 17-inch wheels with 225/45 tires, and sporty interior trim.
Driving
Even during sharp lane changes, body roll is barely noticeable. Dynamics and brakes — a solid good rating.
Interior
Inside, there are many useful boxes and niches, with trim made of quality materials.
Comfort
Overall, at a high level, but the audio system disappointed with sound quality.
Safety
Six airbags, reinforced body, ABS, EBD, and BAS, disc brakes.
Price
Quite reasonable.
Pros and cons
+ Excellent handling, good dynamics, moderate fuel consumption, rich base trim, adaptation to 92-octane gasoline
- Weak acoustics, insufficient sound insulation.
Specifications
Make and model — Kia Pro Cee`d
Dimensions — 4250x1790x1450 mm
Engine — petrol, 1975 cm³, 143 hp/6000 rpm
Transmission — automatic, 4-speed
Dynamics — max 195 km/h; 10.3 s to 100 km/h
Competitors — VW Golf V, Ford Focus
Our opinion
With the arrival of the three-door, the Kia Cee`d model is likely to gain even more fans. The five-door hatchback and wagon have already won over the public in our market. All that remains is to wait for the sedan — and that, by all accounts, is not far off.