The new Kia Ceed is here with a new look, new name and advanced driving aids

Kia has revealed the third generation of its Ceed family hatchback and it has its sights set on the Ford Focus and Volkswagen Golf.

There is a raft of updates, but key for those who dislike punctuation in car names is the fact that the official name is now Ceed, replacing the old Cee’d.

Aside from a slightly different name, the hatchback has also been given a new look. It’s longer, wider and lower to the ground than the car it replaces, and swaps the old car’s more rounded styling with sharper lines designed to give it a sportier appearance.

Inside, Kia says the design now has better ergonomics, while material quality has also been improved. Buyers can choose between metallic or satin chrome trim, as well as cloth, synthetic leather or genuine leather for the upholstery.

Buyers looking for a petrol-engine Ceed can choose from an updated version of the 1.0-litre unit making 118bhp, or a 1.4-litre engine that replaces the old 1.6-litre and makes 138bhp. Another 1.4-litre unit is available with just 99bhp.

Despite tanking diesel sales across the market, Kia has introduced a new engine, which it says goes beyond the latest emissions standards by using active emissions reduction technology. It’s available with both 113bhp and 134bhp, and emissions are expected to be below 110g/km when tested.

All engines can be paired with a six-speed manual, while the more powerful 1.4-litre petrol and 1.6-litre diesel can be specified with a seven-speed automatic transmission.

The new Ceed is the first Kia to be sold in Europe with ‘level two’ autonomy. Lane follow assist automatically keeps pace with the car in front and reads road markings to keep in lane. It can also spot gaps in traffic “to safely to gain more ground in heavy congestion”.

Michael Cole, chief operating officer for Kia Motors Europe, said: “The Kia Ceed has been a lynchpin in the brand’s consistent growth across Europe for more than a decade. Created for European buyers, the introduction of the Ceed in 2006 represented a watershed moment for Kia.

“Building on these solid foundations, the all-new Ceed offers a truly contemporary and recognisable design, and advanced technologies to enhance comfort, convenience and safety.”

The new Kia Ceed will make its public debut at the Geneva motor show next month. Production is slated to begin in May, with European deliveries expected to start by the summer.