We were big fans of the old Kia Pro Ceed styling. Not too sure about the new one. Indeed, the new Kia ProCeed adopts a shooting brake design language. “Shooting-brake” is designer speak for an estate car. Station wagon if you are in the U.S.A. They are designed to be eye-catching. At least the concepts are.

However, production realities such as cost, time etc, dictate how such a form factor appears. A pre-production concept will push the design barriers and wet the consumer’s appetite. But in the end concept vehicles are and always will be publicity stunts. The ProCeed’s final design would also have been subject to numerous safety and production regulations. Designers call this “compromises”. The biggest causes of compromises would have been consumer feedback tests. Never let the consumer dictate the design. Companies never learn. Refine yes, but not design. Consumer research and opinion will always want better practicality, more storage, better visibility, protection and a drinks holder. Unsurprisingly you get a visual compromise. That said ProCeed’s new design language is a bold step for Kia to take. The ProCeed will use exactly the same running gear as the Ceed hatch. Just like the Ceed it’s developed and manufactured in Europe. The ProCeed will mirror the model trims, spec-list, and range of engines of the Ceed hatch. So expect entry-level cars with the 1.0-litre and 1.4-litre petrol engine and a 1.6-litre, 136bhp diesel engine. A hybrid is also in development. Also, expect a six-speed manual as standard or the optional seven-speed Dual-Clutch Transmission. Equipment will include the standard 7.0-inch touchscreen audio system or the optional 8.0-inch touchscreen satellite navigation system. Like most modern cars the ProCeed will support Apple and Android connectivity and apps. Optional extras include keyless start, heated seats, wireless smartphone charging etc. Available technologies include Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go, Blind Spot Collision Warning, Rear Cross-Traffic Collision Warning, Smart Parking Assist, and pedestrian recognition for the Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist system. The Kia ProCeed will debut in October, the Paris Motorshow and go on sale across Europe in Q1 2019.