Although Kia's new Kia cee'd will be offered with the same engine choice as the original model - three gasoline and two diesel engines, ranging in power output from 90 to 143 ps - all the powertrains deliver significant reductions in fuel consumption and CO2 output. This is the result, partly of more refined engine tuning and partly because most models are fitted with low-viscosity engine and transmissions lubricants and new Michelin low rolling resistance tyres. Across the new Kia cee'd range, the average of reduction is 5%.

The popular 1.6-litre diesel is replaced by a new engine from Kia's new 'U2' family, designed and engineered at Kia's R&D centre in Rüsselsheim, Germany and manufactured in Slovakia , especially for use in this important Kia newcomer.

Making its debut in new Kia cee'd, the U2 1.6-litre diesel has the latest generation common rail diesel injection system and is fitted with Variable Geometry Turbocharger (VGT). It is cleaner, quieter and more fuel-efficient than its forebears, while still ensuring a responsive and lively performance.

U2 1.6L has been developed to deliver best-in-class power and torque outputs over the entire rev range to ensure optimum driveability. Crucially, more than 90 per cent of the maximum torque is available from just 1,500 rpm, for strong and smooth acceleration almost from idle.

Maximum power is 115 ps (84.5 kW) at 4,000 rpm and maximum torque of 255 Nm (26.0 kg.m) across a wide rev band, from 1,900 to 2,750 rpm.

U2 uses high pressure common rail injection with a variable swirl control system (up to five injections per cycle), electronically-controlled Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR), a variable geometry turbocharger, and a Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) to ensure it meets Euro 4 emissions regulations - depending on market.

NVH is well controlled and U2 engine noise has been reduced by 1.1% (to 92 dB at 4,000 rpm). Thanks to the fitment of a chain-driven timing system, owners will benefit from extended (to 30,000 km or one year) service intervals.

Fitted in new Kia cee'd, the U2 with the new six-speed manual gearbox emits just 110 g/km (hatchback with ISG) and 119 g/km (wagon with ISG) of CO2. This represents an 8% improvement over the previous 1.6-litre 'U1' engine, and brings both cee'd models below the crucial 120g/km threshold applicable for taxation purposes across European countries, meaning many owners will be able to enjoy paying reduced or no vehicle taxation, and free parking or other benefits, in some markets.

Alongside the U2, buyers will be able to choose between four 'carry-over' engines - a 2.0-litre 140 ps diesel and three gasoline engines, a 1.4-litre (90 ps), a 1.6-litre (126 ps), and a 2.0-litre (143 ps), each fitted with Continuously Variable Valve Timing (CVVT) to ensure greater engine efficiency in all operating conditions. Lower power versions of these engines are available in some markets to meet local taxation requirements.