The new engine is the first of Kia's upcoming range of downsized engines to make its debut in Europe and will be progressively rolled out on other models in Kia’s European line-up.

The 120PS 1.0-litre T-GDi engine has been engineered to deliver lower CO2 emissions than the 1.6-litre GDI engine found in other cee'd models and is also equipped with Kia's fuel-saving ISG system as standard.

The GT Line also offers an upgraded version of the cee'd's 1.6-litre CRDi diesel engine, with power increased from 128PS to 131PS and torque from 265 to 285Nm. However, CO2 emissions are expected to fall slightly once the homologation process is complete.

The new cee'd GT Line also marks the arrival of the brand's all-new seven-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT). Available on GT Line models equipped with the 131bhp 1.6-litre CRDi diesel engine, Kia's new DCT replaces the six-speed torque-converter automatic transmission and is capable of handling a higher torque output but is also expected to offer lower emissions and a 5-7% improvement in fuel economy.

The new seven-speed DCT will again be available on a number of Kia models in future, with similar gains expected in fuel efficiency and performance depending on its application in different models.

The GT Line specification is available on all three cee'd body types – five-door cee'd, three-door pro_cee'd and cee'd Sportswagon – and brings extra styling features including ice-cube LED daytime running lights and deeper bumpers. Other features include wider GT bumper and twin exhausts, while the Sportswagon is fitted with dual exhausts and a subtle rear diffuser.

All GT Line models also come as standard with the GT model's eye-catching side sill mouldings and rear LED light units, and a new 17-inch alloy wheel design.

Inside, the GT Line includes new grey, white and black upholstery with grey stitching; a series of GT Line logos throughout the cabin; and the same piano black and leather steering wheel and aluminium alloy pedals fitted to Kia's high-performance GT models.

The Kia cee'd GT Line will be available from Kia dealers across Europe in Q4 2015.