Kia Ceed Tourer PHEV: Testing an Efficient Plug-in Hybrid, With or Without a Plug

Plug-in hybrids are the ideal technology for a smooth transition to full electric mobility: they allow you to charge their battery by plugging them into the grid, can travel many miles in electric mode without generating local emissions, and have the high range offered by their efficient combustion engine. And with very short charging times, and the ZERO emissions label!

The interesting aspect of a plug-in hybrid is to maximise its electric driving mode, with frequent domestic and/or workplace recharges; and many weekly miles travelled without consuming petrol or generating local emissions. Thanks to this, they can cover most of their daily journeys with the energy cost of an electric car (between 0.50 and 2 euros per 100 kilometres), which is much cheaper than petrol.

But what happens when the battery runs out? Most plug-ins increase their consumption to around 8 l/100km, however, in the Kia Ceed Tourer PHEV, we have found consumption of less than 5 l/100 km. Specifically, on a multi-day trip, with more than 1,000 km of route without plugging in, the average consumption was 4.7 l/100, a very interesting figure.

This model is equipped with a 61 HP electric motor, with a maximum torque of 170 Nm and an 8.9 kWh battery capacity. Therefore, the electric range is close to 50 km, covering most daily city trips, taking children to school or shopping; to name a few examples. Not forgetting that the total range far exceeds 700 kilometres in real use.

With an interestingly good road behaviour. Quiet, comfortable, and safe. You don't feel at all like you're in a large vehicle, and you don't notice the switch between hybrid or electric mode, it's very smooth. Interpreting the multimedia system is also very simple and easy.

The model is a C-segment family car designed to meet all the needs of a multi-member household. Firstly, its image recalls the sporty design of the Stinger and brings an elegant style to the compact family segment through attractive and precise details. It is characterised by a recessed cabin profile that gives its line maturity and a marked character. At the front, it features a wider "tiger-nose" grille and a lower air intake framed by precise and straight lines. The model is distinguished by the standard "ice cube" LED daytime running lights, reminiscent of those on the GT-Line versions.

From the side, the straight and sharp lines visually lengthen the bonnet and give it a more elevated stance. The shoulder line runs on a more horizontal plane, creating an image of maturity and strength, while the D-pillar is shaped to give the upper window line an elegant "half-moon" contour. At the rear, the LED lights give the Ceed Tourer greater visibility and make it more recognisable on the road. Combined with the straight lines of the body and the subtle rear spoiler, the Ceed Tourer stands out for a more stable image.

The interior of the Ceed Tourer is very ergonomic and covered with quality materials, a design that creates a greater sense of space and openness for front passengers, as well as providing more legroom and a clearer front view. Although for space, the boot is the highlight. It reaches up to 625 litres, superior to that offered by most family vehicles in other segments. The loading edge is significantly low, making it easy to load heavy objects.

Given that the expectations of C-segment family cars go beyond a large boot volume, versatility and functionality are strong points of the Ceed Tourer, making it one of the most practical cars in its category. The split rear seat has a 60:40 configuration and can be fully folded. With the seats folded, the boot floor is completely flat. All Ceed Tourers will have an under-boot space to safely carry small items, as well as a flexible cover and a bag hook to prevent food and other items from rolling around the load floor. On the outside, roof rails are part of the standard equipment.