The first-generation Kia cee'd (ED) premiered at the Paris Motor Show in late 2006. Tailored specifically for Europe at Kia's design center in Rüsselsheim, Germany, it was manufactured at the Žilina plant in Slovakia. Built on the Hyundai-Kia J4 platform with multi-link independent rear suspension, it delivered dynamic European driving characteristics. Body styles included a 5-door hatchback, a 3-door pro_cee'd, and an extended cee'd_sw station wagon measuring 4,470 mm. This generation of the Ceed (ED) was produced from 2006 to 2012 and offered in хэтчбек, универсал body styles. Built on an engineered platform, it features strong structural rigidity, refined aerodynamics, and advanced occupant safety engineering.

Engine options featured 1.4-liter (109 hp) and 1.6-liter (126 hp) Gamma petrol engines, a 2.0-liter Beta II unit (143 hp), and 1.6-liter (90-115 hp) and 2.0-liter (140 hp) CRDi turbo-diesels. A 2009 mid-cycle facelift added Kia's signature Tiger Nose grille, an upgraded instrument panel, refined suspension tuning, and a new 6-speed manual transmission across the range. The powertrain lineup features modern engines optimized for thermal efficiency, balancing responsive acceleration with economical fuel consumption. Power is delivered through reliable manual or automatic transmissions.