Auto Trader NZ
Published 3 September 2020
The much-anticipated Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) is a feature of the all-new cee’d that was shown publically for the first time at the recent Geneva Auto Salon in Switzerland.
Utilising two separate transmissions contained within a single housing, Kia says the 6-speed DCT delivers smooth gear shifts for maximum driving comfort, lowers fuel consumption and reduces CO2 emissions compared with the previous conventional automatic transmission.
Todd McDonald, General Manager for Kia Motors New Zealand, says the unveiling of the Dual Clutch Transmission is an exciting step and underlines the brand’s growing technology credentials and ongoing investment in R&D.
“I am looking forward to seeing DCT technology in models that will be sold in the New Zealand market,” he says.
The introduction of the cee’d also marks the evolution of the much-acclaimed vehicle design process at Kia Motors.
The original cee’d was among the first models to showcase the new design DNA that Kia has been injecting into its entire range over the past five years, although it appeared just ahead of the appointment of Chief Designer Peter Schreyer, who has since spearheaded the company’s design direction.
His influence in re-shaping the next-generation cee’d is unmistakable, applying more sophistication and dynamism to the character of what had already been described as one of the most desirable cars in its class.
The new Kia cee’d combines styling typically found on a sporty coupe with the space and functionality of a five-door hatch. It’s longer, wider and lower than its predecessor, with the same long wheelbase. The new elegant design’s coupe-like proportions are emphasised by the steeply raked A-pillar, a very low belt-line in the front and lengthened side windows.
The front is dominated by the latest interpretation of Kia’s trademark tiger nose grille and aggressive, wraparound headlamp clusters housing LED daytime running lights.
New cee’d features a completely re-designed interior hallmarked by a more premium look and feel, improved switchgear, touch-screen technology and enhanced driving position ergonomics.
The dashboard layout incorporates a cockpit-like design with an aircraft-themed, driver-oriented fascia. The main control panel wraps around the steering wheel, placing all switchgear within easy reach of the driver and the main control groups such as audio and air-conditioning have been segregated to bring a more premium and luxurious feel to the interior.
Mr McDonald is impressed with how Kia’s design DNA has progressed in the second-generation cee’d, adding: “It is instantly recognisable as a Kia, with the signature tiger nose grille, and has the elegance and sophistication of a larger, more luxurious car.”
