During 2020 and throughout 2021, many have been important developments in the C segment of compact cars. The eighth generation of the VW Golf, the fourth of the Seat Leon, the new deliveries of the Hyundai i30, Audi A3, Peugeot 308… These are just some of the most outstanding launches, models that will soon be joined by the new generation of Opel Astra and the deep updates of the Kia Ceed and Ford Focus, the latter two protagonists of this article.
KIA CEED 2022: A MOST COMPLETE UPDATE
In the Kia commercial range, one of his Cornerstones is the Ceed, whose keys to its deep update we learned a few weeks ago.
At the level of design, the Ceed 2022 sports a front with new bumpers and headlights, as well as a glossy black grille and the new logo of the brand already clearly visible both in the front and in the rear area. Already on the back, it is inevitable not to notice the striking new diffuser of new invoice.
In updating this model, another key corresponds to the greater aesthetic differentiation between the different versions available (GT, GT-Line and PHEV or plug-in hybrid), each of them with their own personality / identity. In this way, the GT version enhances its more “rebellious” and sporty side with the striking presence of new red details for the front, sides and back. For its part, in the GT-Line variant its most relevant hallmarks are the rear light clusters with 48 LEDs covered by a reticular pattern.
The interior design and settings the same are also updated with the incorporation and availability of new upholstery and materials. In the passenger compartment, part of the great prominence falls on the new digital instrumentation behind the wheel (12.3 inches in size) and, of course, in the new digital touch screen for the multimedia system located on the central area of the dashboard with a size of up to 10.25 inches.
The Ceed 2022 engine range It is the most varied and includes several alternatives. For those who prefer diesel, you can choose the 1.6 CRDi version with 136 hp (also available with a micro-hybrid or mild-hybrid system with 48V technology and with the DGT ECO label), and the gasoline variants 1.0 T-GDi of 100 and 120 CV, in addition to the 1.5 T-GDi of 160 CV and the 1.6 T-GDi of 204 CV that equip the sportier versions. The 120 and 160 hp petrol mechanics also include a 48V mild-hybrid system (they also receive the DGT ECO badge).
The mechanical offer is completed with the modern and efficient PHEV plug-in hybrid version up to 141 hp of maximum power, a variant with which the Ceed receives the ZERO sticker from the DGT (with the multiple advantages in terms of circulation, taxes, tolls and parking that comes with having this badge).
FORD FOCUS 2022: MORE MODERN AND TECHNOLOGICAL
Design and equipment are deeply updated in the 2022 “restyling” of the Focus. On the outside, the new hood is striking, which increases the height of the front and provides a greater visual presence. In this front area, the relocation of the oval logo, now in the center of the upper grille, also stands out.
Now the entire range offers new headlights with LED technology as standard, adopting integrated fog light functionality. For the five-door and station wagon body versions, these feature a darkened taillight lens (for a more premium and stylish appearance).
On the other hand, Connected and Titanium series they feature an oversized upper grille with a bright chrome frame, distinguished by strong horizontal bars and combined with side vents that flow from the lower grille. In the case of the Titanium version, one of its aesthetic hallmarks can be found in the hot chrome finish on the upper bars of the grille. The sportier-looking version ST-Line It offers a trapezoidal upper grille supported by a gloss black honeycomb finish, wider side vents and a deeper lower grille, side skirts, rear diffuser and a small rear spoiler. Finally, the version Active reinforces your adventurous image with another series of specific elements.
In terms of equipment, one of the great novelties is the incorporation of the new SYNC 4 4th generation multimedia infotainment, navigation and connectivity system equipped with a new larger 13.2-inch horizontal center screen.
Within the section of security and driving assistance systems, the most relevant novelty is the availability of the new and improved Blind Spot Assist system, with a new function, since in addition to controlling and monitoring the driver’s blind spot in search of vehicles that are When approaching from behind, you can apply a slight counter-steering wheel to warn the driver and advise against a lane change maneuver.
In the mechanical chapter, the main big change in the update of this compact is the possibility of being able to combine in the 1.0 EcoBoost petrol versions of 125 and 155 hp with 48V micro-hybrid technology the seven-speed automatic Powershift transmission. The range of gasoline engines in the 2022 range of the Focus also includes the 1.0 EcoBoost versions of 100 and 125 hp without 48V mild-hybrid system. On diesel, the 1.5 EcoBlue engine in power levels of 95 and 120 hp will continue to be available.
Finally, the Focus 2022 range is crowned with the powerful and “spicy” ST sports version, with a 2.3 EcoBoost petrol engine with 280 hp and 420 Nm of torque. This version also presents new design nuances and within its technical specifications, an electronic limited slip differential and a suspension system with variable electronic damping control stand out.
