Kia Cerato

Introduction

Kia, the upmarket arm of Hyundai Motor company, has always endeavored to offer stylish and elegant commuters to buyers all over. Kia’s engineers and designers are committed to making driving a true pleasure for their customers across the globe. In the year 2003, the South Korean manufacturer launched its one of the prominent sedans named as Kia Cerato. The Cerato was replaced by the new Kia Forte in 2008 in other export markets, however the name of “Cerato” is still continued in some auto-markets. This 4-door sedan shares its platform with the Hyundai Elantra and accesses CVVT-enabled four-cylinder powertrains. Having unveiled its third-generation in the year 2012, Cerato will be releasing its coupe and hatchback variant soon in the Sri Lanka auto market.

Engine, mileage & variants

Equipped with highly efficient Gamma MPI D-CVVT engine which comprises the capacity of 1.6 litre. Kia engineers have further coupled this engine with 6-speed manual and automatic transmission results better power and decent performance. The Gamma 1.6 MPI D-CVVT is capable of producing 130 hp at 6300 rpm, along with the peak torque of about 157 Nm at 4850 rpm. Further, the combined fuel consumption is rated as 15.3 kmpl, and this engine takes 12.0 seconds to breach the speed mark of 100 kmph from a stand still position. The top speed for this sedan clocks at 190 kmph.

Exteriors

Redefining an exceptional automobile design, the new Kia Cerato offers bold and coupe-like proportions with striking lines and curves exudes crisp acceleration and effortless fluidity of motion. The first impression of this sedan exudes confidence, that new Kia Cerato is significantly lower and wider which delivers a rear sporty touch with a longer wheelbase of 2700 mm. The overall L X W X H dimensions are 4560 mm x 1780 mm x 1445 mm. Its large and sturdy 17 inch alloy wheels comprising the tyre size of 215/45 R17 makes further improvements to its aerodynamic body. Other striking exterior appointments include its honey comb radiator grille with its trademark tiger nose design, halogen LED headlamps, electrically adjustable exterior door mirrors with LED technology and rear combination LED lamps. Also, the Cerato is made available with sunroof which complements its entire appeal.

Interiors

Driver-oriented cockpit which features intuitive instrument and switch layout exhibits a perfect blend of functionality and style. You will get a bit startled with its state-of-the-art outline comprising a state of the art infotainment system with CD player, MP3, AUX and Bluetooth with 6 speakers. Appointed with quality upholstery which is black in color gives this car a classy and sophisticated design. The other big enhancement to the interior is space and the explicit maximum boot area which stands at 482 litres. The multi function steering wheel mounted with audio control, Bluetooth Connectivity and audio cruise increases the comfort factor of this sporty sedan. Further, it is employed with a 10-way power driver seat with memory, automatic dual zone air conditioner, 60:40 split foldable rear seat, electronic chromatic rear view camera and rear seat vent which make you enjoy the ride in relaxation.

Safety, Braking and Miscellaneous

With plenty of advanced safety measures, the new Kia Cerato keeps you safe and secure during the ride. Its active and passive safety aspects include 6-Airbag system with passenger airbag switch, electronic stability control (HAC ABS BAS TCS) making further enhancements in vehicle’s stability, auto defog system which provides unobstructed forward visibility, front and rear parking sensor for safe parking and ISOFIX child attachment claiming for your child safety. Ventilated disc brakes and solid disc brakes are provided at front and rear pair of wheels respectively, boosting its braking system effectively. For better suspension, this sedan is employed with McPherson struts and stabilizer (front) and Coupled torsion beam axle (rear). Additionally, this 4-door sedan uses Flex-steer system which enable the driver to choose between different driving modes including comfort, normal and sport.

Verdict

The latest edition of Cerato delivers exactly what you desire for such as an efficient engine, appealing bodyline and premium safety features. When it comes to price there’s no competitor that offers such features. However at times, one would seek for better handling in this sedan.