New ‘EcoDynamics’ Kia cee’d diesel has ultra-low CO2

To showcase its ‘EcoDynamics’ range of fuel-saving vehicles, Kia Motors is revealing an ‘ultra-low’ CO2 version of its popular cee’d at the Geneva Motor Show. The new model achieves a significant 11% reduction in emissions – down to just 98 g/km, compared with 110 g/km for the current cleanest cee’d.

Called ‘EcoDynamics Kia cee’d’, the five-door hatchback is powered by Kia’s new ‘U2’ family 1.6-litre diesel engine, designed and engineered at Kia’s R&D centre in Rüsselsheim, Germany and manufactured in Slovakia. Cleaner, quieter and more fuel-efficient than its forebears, this engine has the latest generation common rail diesel injection system and is fitted with a Variable Geometry Turbocharger (VGT).

Maximum power is 90 ps at 4,000 rpm and maximum torque of 235 Nm is available across a wide rev band, from 1,900 to 2,750 rpm, for excellent drivability. More than 90 per cent of the maximum torque is available from just 1,500 rpm, for strong and smooth acceleration almost from idle.

For fitment in the EcoDynamics cee’d, the engine is fitted with improved engine mapping and fuel injection strategy with new software, a variable water pump which absorbs less power, a high efficiency alternator with power-saving management system and a DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter).

Top gear ratio in the six-speed manual transmission has been raised by 12% (from 3.941 to 3.471), reducing revs at high speeds. Both the engine and transmission are filled with low-viscosity lubricants.

In addition to using the latest engine technologies to enhance efficiency, the EcoDynamics cee’d is equipped a range of fuel-saving features.

Kia’s fuel-stretching ISG (Idle Stop & Go) system – which automatically switches off and then restarts the engine in congested city driving – now features optimised system logic. The electric power-assisted rack and pinion steering system requires just 2.69 turns of the wheel from lock-to-lock. And to encourage an economical driving style, an Eco Driving Guide (gear-shift up/down indicator) is displayed in the cabin.

To improve the 4.26-metre long new car’s aerodynamics and lower its rolling resistance, a variety of measures have been adopted.

The suspension is lowered by 15 mm, a smooth under-floor is fitted together with airflow deflectors ahead of each tyre and a rear spoiler is positioned on top of the tailgate. Brake-pad drag on the discs is reduced and the 16-inch diameter alloy wheels are fitted with low rolling resistance Michelin tyres (205/55 R16), inflated to a higher pressure (38 psi).