Take a chance on KIA’s new enticing offer
Many people, including me, is of the opinion that one can comfortably compare products from KIA and Hyundai with what is on offer from more established brands like Toyota, Ford and the rest.
KIA’s initial design work left them in the doldrums, but – and for the lack of a better expression – its products were bulletproof in terms of durability. But since former VW designer Peter Schreyer, joined KIA’s design studio, its cars have become significantly more desirable and modern.
Dress code
I think the Cerato will most certainly entice many a buyer away from other C-segment offers once the buyer actually makes the effort to test-drive the car instead of just relying on perceptions of what it may or may not be. It offers an exceptionally pleasant and soft-on-the-senses coupé-like exterior with a front end that engages one as it offers an attractive headlight/grill combination with a strong under-bumper and powerful design folds along the edges of the bonnet.
The side-on look, despite the non-prominent wheel arches, is dynamic as a result of the low design form along the doors and the sharpish shoulder line. The rear is dominated by the light clusters and the high tailgate which adds to the wedge shape of the car confirming one’s perception that the Cerato will offer a low drag coefficient.
The interior is larger than what one’s initial perception will allow for. The elegant ergonomics – the centre of the dash facing towards the driver – soft-touch leather, excellent finish and fit, offer a distinctly upmarket look and feel to the Cerato.
The seats are wide and comfortable and finding the sweet spot, in terms of set-up, was quick and easy. Instrumentation is large and clear no matter the steering position, which by the way, offers satellite controls for sound and so forth right there at your fingertips. It also offers what KIA refers to as “Flex steer”, allowing one to set your steering preference: Normal, comfort or sport.
Driving experience
The Cerato is available with a 1,6-litre EX or a 2,0-litre EX/SX power plant and equipment levels with six-speed manual or automatic transmission. I drove the 2,0-litre manual which delivers 118kW. The car is exceptionally quiet, no matter whether you drive in town or cruise the open road at 120km/h. Steering is precise and although I did not engage in hard power driving, the engine offers good responsiveness and in my mind, enough power to suit the intention of what it pretends to be – a beautiful modern spacious family car with the KIA’s “power to surprise”.
The Cerato’s suspension offers a supple ride with great stability and confidence at high speed which enhanced my impression that it has more to offer than what most people would suspect or even expect.
Conclusion
Drive it. You will be pleasantly surprised.
