Kia XCeed hatchback - Practicality & boot space

The crossover class can get somewhat confusing because while at one end of the spectrum you'll find purpose-built SUVs, at the other there are restyled hatchbacks with jacked up suspension like the Kia XCeed and Ford Focus Active.

Kia XCeed interior space & storage

Interior space in the XCeed isn't much different to the hatchback but that's not necessarily a bad thing. The driving position is easily adjustable for almost any height and shape of driver, with a steering wheel that moves for reach and rake, along with plenty of legroom. Visibility is good, with a slightly better view ahead thanks to the raised driving position, and every version comes with a rear-view camera. Somewhat oddly, no model offers front parking sensors.

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Boot space

Thanks to the XCeed’s extra length compared with the Ceed, it has a boot that’s 31 litres bigger. Measuring 426 litres, this also beats the 375-litre boot of the Focus Active, while the Volkswagen T-Cross' boot measures from 385-455 litres depending on the position of the rear bench. Due to where the batteries are placed, the PHEV offers much less boot space at 291 litres, which is less than you get in a Kia Rio supermini. With the rear seats folded flat, the rear storage space increases to 1,243 litres for the PHEV and 1,378 litres for the petrol models.

Top-of-the-range models also get 40:20:40 split-folding rear seats, making it easier to load longer items such as skis and still have seats freed up for two passengers.

Towing

The XCeed can safely tow a braked trailer weighing between 1,000kg and 1,200kg, depending on the engine. That should be just enough to haul a medium-sized caravan but is lower than you might expect given its rugged SUV looks.