Say hello to…
…the Kia Xceed plug-in hybrid which underwent a mid-life facelift and all round fettling at the end of 2022. The new version still offers that near-estate, near-SUV look based on the popular Ceed which Kia claims to be a sportier alternative to bulkier SUVs. Other revisions include new lights front and rear, subtly different body styling and a host of improvements to the interior and the technology used under the metal.
As the PHEV version of the Xceed will take a relatively small share of Xceed sales – almost all of which will be to business users – Kia is only offering the plug-in hybrid in a single trim level:
- 3
Trim 3 includes as standard 16-inch alloys, auto headlights, LED headlights, LED rear lights, front fog lights, auto wipers, power folding heated door mirrors, faux leather upholstery, height adjustable front seats, heated front seats, heated steering wheel, dual zone climate control, smart cruise control, keyless start, 4x USB sockets, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, Bluetooth, reversing camera, 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen, rear parking sensors, lane assist and drive modes.
Is The Kia Xceed PHEV Suitable For My Fleet
Business drivers account for the majority of plug-in hybrid demand, as those drivers that can’t make a full EV work for their job or lifestyle still want the tax breaks a PHEV provides. The Kia Xceed not only meets the tax advantage (it sits in the 12% BIK band), but is also spot on when it comes to being practical, comfortable and efficient for higher mileage fleet use.
On our test we saw an average of more than 80mpg and experienced an pure-EV range of 29 miles.
Leasing A Kia Xceed PHEV
Availability of the Kia Xceed is understood to be good, particularly against some full EV models. Intelligent Car Leasing is listing the PHEV for £393 a month on a 3+36 contract with 10,000 miles a year. Gensen Reports claims the maintenance costs are competitive too at £53 a month.
Driving A Kia Xceed PHEV
The latest changes to the Kia Xceed PHEV have improved on an already decent crossover. As well as looking sportier than before, there’s been a tech upgrade for the Xceed too and the suspension has been fettled too.
In the cabin the lower portion of the dashboard has been redesigned to make it more user friendly and Kia is to be congratulated for keeping proper buttons for the heating and aircon controls plus a volume knob.
The upper section of the dash, which includes the user-friendly infotainment system and touchscreen, has been modified so that the screen is better angled toward the driver.
Rear seat room is generally good, but move to the boot and the intrusion of batteries into the space means there’s only 291 litres. The non-plug in versions have a much healthier 426 litres.
The only other annoyance, which applies to all Xceeds, and most Kias, is the number of bleeps and bongs the car makes to warn of various situations. Worthy of particular mention is the reversing bong which just isn’t necessary.
The Xceed is otherwise a very relaxed and comfortable drive. If you’re used to SUVs, the slightly lower height of the Xceed means the car feels more agile than some rivals without having to resort to stiff suspension.
Power from the plug-in hybrid system is good too and while the car doesn’t feel particularly rapid, it is usefully quick and has enough shove to cope with regular motorway work.
Excitement may not be what the Xceed is about, but what it does is offer a rewarding, comfortable and high value experience.
FleetandLeasing.com Verdict On The Kia Xceed PHEV
A welcome array of upgrades for the Kia Xceed PHEV means the crossover is now even more appealing to business buyers and users.
Kia Xceed PHEV
- Model: Kia Xceed PHEV
- Power: 139hp
- Torque: 265Nm
- Max speed: 99mph
- 0-62mph: 10.6s
- Official mpg: 201.7mpg
- Test mpg: 80.8mpg
- Official range: 36.6 miles
- Test range: 29 miles
- CO2 emissions: 32g/km
- BIK tax band 2022/23: 12%
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