Kia EcoDynamics
EcoDynamics range is go!
Korean giant Kia has been slow to jump on the green bandwagon, but it has recently launched its own eco brand to coincide with the arrival of the revised Cee’d. The hatch is the first car in the line-up to carry the EcoDynamics badge, and mates the familiar 1.6 CRDi diesel engine with new Intelligent Stop & Go (ISG) technology.
This works in the same way as most other stop-start set-ups – when you stop at traffic lights, for example, and select neutral, the powerplant is switched off. Then, when you press the clutch pedal and choose a gear, it fires up automatically.
As a result of this, the diesel Cee’d promises combined economy of 67.3mpg and emissions of 110g/km.
Prices start from £13,895, and the car is offered as a stylish three-door Pro_Cee’d, standard five-door hatch or practical estate.
Yet these green credentials don’t come at the expense of kit – standard spec includes air-con, alloys and Bluetooth connectivity.
Kias don’t have to wear the EcoDynamics badge to be green, though. In 1.1-litre guise, the Picanto city car returns impressive combined economy of 58.8mpg and emissions of only 114g/km – the latter means it qualifies for road tax at £35 a year.
If that sounds tempting but you need more space, opt for the bigger Rio. Powered by the 1.5-litre CRDi diesel, it promises even better fuel economy, delivering nearly 63mpg.
So, although it isn’t at the forefront of the green market yet, Kia has made that all-important first step. And if future vehicles are as competent and efficient as the Cee’d EcoDynamics, there is a lot to look forward to.
