Ceed SW I (ED) vs Outback III (BP): which is better?
Kia Ceed SW I (ED) (2007–2012) vs Subaru Outback III (BP) (2003–2009): specs, fuel economy, tax and common problems.
Kia Ceed SW I (ED)
Subaru Outback III (BP)Specifications
| Kia Ceed SW I (ED) | Subaru Outback III (BP) | |
|---|---|---|
| Production years | 2007–2012 | 2003–2009 |
| Body | estate | estate |
| Fuel | petrol | petrol |
| Engines | 1.6 | 2.5 |
| Power, up to | 122 hp | 165 hp |
| Torque, up to | 154 Nm | 226 Nm |
| Gearbox | automatic | automatic |
| Drive | front-wheel drive | all-wheel drive |
| Length | 4 470 mm | 4 730 mm |
| Width | 1 790 mm | 1 770 mm |
| Height | 1 490 mm | 1 545 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2 650 mm | 2 670 mm |
| Fuel tank | 53 L | 64 L |
| KZ tax 2026 (car under 10 years) | ≈ 13 675 ₸ | ≈ 29 450 ₸ |
The better value is highlighted in green.
Pros, cons and common problems
Kia Ceed SW I (ED)
Pros
- Conventional automatic, no robotized gearbox or CVT
- Sold in all major markets of the region — parts and mechanics available
Cons
- Hyundai/Kia Gamma 1.6 engine (G4FC, G4FG): catalytic converter breakdown and debris entering the cylinders — scoring
- Hyundai/Kia automatic: jolts on 2–3 shifts and when braking
Engine (Hyundai/Kia Gamma 1.6 (G4FC, G4FG)): catalytic converter breakdown with debris entering the cylinders — scoring; timing chain stretch after 150k km; knocking when worn (valves adjusted with shims).
Gearbox (Hyundai/Kia automatic): kicks on the 2–3 shift and when braking; solenoid and clutch pack wear at high mileage.
Subaru Outback III (BP)
Pros
- All-wheel-drive versions available
- Conventional automatic, no robotized gearbox or CVT
- Sold in all major markets of the region — parts and mechanics available
Cons
- Subaru EJ (2.0–2.5) engine: head gasket leaks
Engine (Subaru EJ (2.0–2.5)): head gasket leaks; oil consumption; head gasket on the EJ253.
Which one to choose
- Ceed SW I (ED) — if you care more about: kz tax 2026.
- Outback III (BP) — if you care more about: power, torque, wheelbase, fuel tank.
The condition of a specific car matters more than the model: check the service history and get the engine and gearbox inspected before buying.
FAQ
Which is more powerful: Ceed SW I (ED) or Outback III (BP)?
Ceed SW I (ED): up to 122 hp, Outback III (BP): up to 165 hp.
What is the vehicle tax in Kazakhstan?
For 2026, for a car under 10 years old: Ceed SW I (ED) — about 13 675 ₸, Outback III (BP) — about 29 450 ₸ (base engine). A 0.7 factor applies to cars aged 10–20 years and 0.5 to cars over 20.