At the 2007 Frankfurt Auto Show Kia unveiled the Pro_Cee'd, The Show Car designed by Pontus Fontaeus, and began marketing the model in January 2008. The Pro_Cee'd is mechanically identical to the 5-door model but many body panels (sans the bonnet and front-wings) are new and do not carry over from the 5-door model. The first generation Pro_Cee'd was often compared to the Audi A3 in terms of its appearance,[7] Auto Express calling it a "bargain Audi A3".[8]
In 2013, Kia released the second generation Pro_Cee'd. Unlike the previous generation, this car shares no body panels with the 5-door model. The new Pro_Cee'd has been continually praised in reviews for its looks, with a more coupé-like appearance, more sporting stance, lower suspension (by 40mm) and a smaller front grille.[9][10] The car has, however, have gained some criticism; it excels at comfort and refinement like the standard Cee'd, but its suspension and steering are not considered at all sporty, its setup favouring the afformentioned comfort.
Kia's Ex_cee'd cabrio concept car premiered at the 77th Salon de l'Automobiles in 2007 Geneva and was designed by Pontus Fontaeus. Based on the three-door Cee'd hatchback (Pro_cee'd), the Ex_cee'd shares the same platform, but features different exterior panels and an electric folding fabric roof.
Kia revealed a concept of its Pro_cee'd line, with improved aerodynamics and mild hybrid engine tuning to their diesel engine, under the name "Eco_cee'd". The concept models were fitted with ISG (Idle Stop&Go) and regenerative braking.[11]
Kia previewed a hybrid Cee'd concept at the 2008 Paris Auto Show,[12] and operates an evaluation fleet of [clarification needed] in Europe[13] — with the hybrid models featuring an electric motor, powered by a high-voltage battery mounted behind the rear seats.[14]
