The third-generation Kia Ceed (CD) debuted at the 2018 Geneva Motor Show, officially dropping the apostrophe from its name. Built on the K2 platform, it widened by 20 mm (1,800 mm) and lowered by 23 mm, granting both the hatchback and Sportswagon athletic proportions. Driver assistance advanced with the Drive Wise safety suite, offering Level 2 lane-following assist and adaptive cruise control. This generation of the Ceed (CD) was in production since 2018 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 1.0L T-GDI (120 hp), 1.4L T-GDI (140 hp, upgraded to 1.5L T-GDI 160 hp in 2021), and 1.6L T-GDI (204 hp for GT trims), alongside 1.6-liter Smartstream CRDi diesels. Mild-hybrid (MHEV 48V) and Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) powertrains were introduced. A 2021 refresh added Kia's new logo, restyled grilles, redesigned LED lights, and a 12.3-inch digital cockpit. 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. Mid-cycle updates introduced modernized LED lighting graphics, premium cabin materials, and enhanced active driver assistance suites.