This Kia crossover is undergoing another redesign to remain relevant | Carscoops

      Kia has recently discontinued the hatchback and estate versions of the Ceed, but the XCeed is set to continue into the latter half of the decade.

      The XCeed, now six years old, is already undergoing plans for a more extensive facelift. A prototype cloaked in camouflage indicates a significant redesign, aligning it with the rest of Kia's lineup.

      As the sole survivor of the Ceed family, the XCeed could introduce new technology and mild-hybrid powertrains.

      While Kia is expanding its electric offerings, the brand recognizes the necessity for combustion models to remain relevant longer than anticipated to satisfy consumer demand. A heavily camouflaged prototype of the XCeed suggests that another facelift is forthcoming, ensuring the compact crossover remains competitive for several additional years.

      The Kia XCeed was first launched in 2019 as the elevated version of the Ceed family. Positioned between the Stonic and the Sportage, it received a facelift in 2022 that included minor exterior and interior upgrades, along with the introduction of a more powerful GT-Line variant.

      A New Look

      Six years after its launch, the XCeed appears dated compared to its counterparts. In fact, it and the Stonic are the last models in Kia's lineup that have yet to embrace the brand's latest design language. Fortunately, this is set to change soon, as the model will be refreshed rather than phased out.

      Our spy photographers captured images of the prototype during testing in Europe. Despite the camouflage, it is identifiable as an XCeed due to its familiar greenhouse and hatchback-like appearance. However, the front has been completely reworked, featuring vertically-stacked LED headlights. This will likely be complemented by a larger grille, revised bumper intakes, and minor alterations to the hood and front fenders.

      The side profile could see enhancements with new alloy wheel designs and color options. While most facelifts keep the side body panels largely the same, the XCeed might benefit from new plastic cladding, making it feel more SUV-like.

      As with the front, the back is also shrouded in bulky camouflage. Nonetheless, the taillights appear significantly different from the current model, suggesting a major redesign of the tailgate and rear bumper. A provisional exhaust pipe that is visible indicates the presence of a combustion engine under the hood.

      The interior is expected to feature a more contemporary digital cockpit, bringing the XCeed in line with other Kia models. In addition to an upgraded infotainment system, the crossover may also receive more advanced ADAS features and eco-friendly upholstery options.

      Updates Under the Hood

      Regarding powertrains, the 1.6-liter diesel is likely to be discontinued due to emission standards, possibly alongside the 1.5-liter gasoline engine. It is likely that Kia will adopt mild-hybrid gasoline engines, potentially reintroducing the PHEV that is currently unavailable.

      In any case, the powertrain options might align with those of the mechanically similar Hyundai i30, which is also expected to receive a third facelift soon. Meanwhile, the Ceed family has seen the hatchback and estate versions exit production recently, following the discontinuation of the ProCeed last year. A revival seems unlikely given their lackluster sales performance.

      The refreshed XCeed is anticipated to debut in mid-2026, with production likely occurring in Slovakia. In light of the Ford Focus Active's discontinuation, the Korean model will compete with similarly-sized vehicles like the Mazda CX-30, Toyota C-HR, and Citroen C4.