New Kia Ceed GT-Line Brings Sporty Looks To Paris

Kia’s presence at the Paris Auto Show this year centers primarily around the new Ceed. While the automaker released most of the Ceed’s new variants online in the ramp-up to the French motor expo, it did however save one version for the show. And that’s the GT-Line.

Sportier-looking than the standard Ceed but not as focused as the Ceed GT, the GT-Line is more bark than bite. Principally an appearance package, the GT-Line is available on the new Ceed five-door hatch and the Ceed Sportswagon estate, and serves as standard specification for the rakish new ProCeed shooting brake.

Distinguishing GT-Line models from the standard versions are sportier touches like a satin-chrome and gloss-back grille, new bumpers front and rear, metallic “blades” on the fog-lamp surrounds, and wheels unique to the trim level in either 17- or 19-inch diameters.

Inside, the GT-Line package also feature more heavily bolstered sports seats, a flat-bottom steering wheel, metallic shift paddles (for dual-clutch models) and scuff plates on the door sills, and black headliners (instead of the standard grey).

“The all-new Ceed ‘GT-Line’ takes design inspiration from the new high-powered Ceed GT and will appeal to a wider audience as a result,” notes Kia’s European chief Emilio Herrera. “Since its launch in Europe earlier this year, the all-new Ceed has been widely praised for its comprehensive array of technologies, efficiency and engaging driving character. The ‘GT-Line’ builds on another of the Ceed’s key strengths – its design.”

It all adds up to a look and feel more like the full-on Ceed GT and ProCeed GT. But instead of the 1.6-liter turbo four, GT-Line models come equipped with more economical engine options – including a 1.0-liter three-cylinder engine, a 1.4-liter four, and a 1.6-liter diesel, with outputs ranging from 118 horsepower (88 kW) up to 138 hp (103 kW). A six-speed manual comes standard, and certain engines can be mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox.