2023 Kia XCeed PHEV 3 1.6 GDi Review

Today, I'm going to talk about a car that’s just as green in its technology – the 2023 Kia XCeed PHEV 3 1.6 GDi. This plug-in hybrid combines a 1.6-litre petrol engine with advanced hybrid technology, delivering a 0-60 mph time of 10.6 seconds. The petrol engine offers 105 brake horsepower (bhp), while the electric motor adds another 35 bhp, giving you a combined total of 140 bhp. This specific model is priced at £35,500, which includes a £7,000 premium over the petrol-only version. The base model of the XCeed starts at around £23,000, which gets you the petrol version in the entry-level “2” trim. But even in the standard trim, the features offered are quite impressive.

Ultimately, the 2023 Kia XCeed PHEV 3 1.6 GDi is a solid choice in the compact crossover segment, offering practicality, comfort, and a reasonable degree of efficiency.

Electric-Only Capabilities and Charging

The plug-in hybrid technology allows you to use this car as a fully electric vehicle (EV) for up to 30 miles – perfect for city driving. Kia claims it can reach up to 36.6 miles on electric power alone. The battery takes about two and a half hours to recharge, but with its efficient regenerative braking system, you can add a bit of power back into the battery without needing to plug in.

Interior Comfort and Features

Stepping into the front cabin, you'll find a smart and functional layout. While there’s nothing overly flashy about it, the materials used are of good quality – sturdy yet soft to the touch. It’s clear that this interior is built to last, with materials that would likely hold up well even after a decade of use. The fit and finish here are notably better than some of the interiors you'd find in a modern Ford or even certain Volkswagen models.

The central infotainment system features a large color screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, though it's not wireless, so you'll need to plug in your device. This model doesn’t have wireless charging, but you do get USB-C and USB-A ports along with a 12-volt socket. There are also practical touches like traditional gear selectors, which are a welcome feature in a world increasingly dominated by rotary dials.

This “3” trim level comes well-equipped with heated seats, a heated steering wheel, and analog dials complemented by a 4.5-inch colour information display. The air conditioning controls are physical knobs and dials, which offer a satisfying tactile feel, even if they’re made from simple plastic.

Rear Cabin and Practicality

Moving to the rear cabin, the theme of practicality continues. While it’s not overly luxurious, it feels comfortable and functional. There’s ample room for passengers, with a large armrest and two cup holders in the middle. The middle seat can accommodate an adult, making it possible to carry three passengers in reasonable comfort for short trips. Rear passengers also benefit from a USB-A socket and air vents, plus there are tight pockets in the back of the seats for stowing small items.

Legroom is decent, though foot space under the seats could be a bit better. Even with the battery pack under the rear, headroom remains good, and a six-foot adult should find enough space to sit comfortably.

Cargo Space

The boot space is one area where the XCeed PHEV shows a compromise. With 291 litres of cargo space, it's 135 litres less than the petrol version, owing to the space taken up by the battery and electric motor. However, I’ve found it sufficient for a weekly shop, largely thanks to its wide opening, which makes loading and unloading easier. While the boot space might seem a drawback on paper, it’s more practical than the numbers suggest.

Driving Experience and Fuel Economy

In terms of driving experience, the Kia XCeed PHEV 3 performs admirably. The official fuel economy figures may be optimistic, achievable under lab conditions, but in real-world conditions, I've managed 60.4 MPG over 90 miles in hybrid mode, which is quite respectable. The hybrid system seamlessly transitions between petrol and electric power, and the ride is smooth and quiet, especially in EV mode.

The suspension is tuned slightly softer than in the petrol versions to handle the additional weight of the battery. It’s well-balanced, providing a comfortable ride without feeling too soft or "boaty." The steering is also positive and direct, making for a confident driving experience. While it's not a sports car and isn't designed for aggressive driving on twisty roads, it excels in everyday driving scenarios – commuting, shopping trips, and the occasional long drive.

Should You Go for the PHEV?

The big question is whether the plug-in hybrid is worth the £7,000 premium over the petrol-only version. For most drivers, the answer depends on their specific use case. If you have access to cheap electricity (perhaps through solar panels) and plan to keep the car for many years, the savings in fuel might justify the higher upfront cost. However, for the average driver, who might only save £200 to £300 a year on fuel, it could take a very long time to recoup that extra investment.

Ultimately, the 2023 Kia XCeed PHEV 3 1.6 GDi is a solid choice in the compact crossover segment, offering practicality, comfort, and a reasonable degree of efficiency. Whether the plug-in hybrid variant makes sense for you depends on your driving habits and how much you value the ability to drive on electric power alone.

If you're in the market for a mid-sized, slightly raised hatchback, the Kia XCeed should definitely be on your test-drive list.

To find out the latest lease prices for a Kia XCeed PHEV, Click here.