2014 Kia Cerato | new car review

Looks

The compact Korean car has travelled the world and is referred to as the Spectra in the USA, Forte in a few other parts of the world and the Cerato in the Middle East. Available as a Hatchback, Sedan and Coupe, the Cerato is the only nameplate in the brand’s lineup to have three different body styles. Apart from the design of the headlights, there isn’t a whole lot that is common between all three, as far as the exterior design is concerned. Subtle differences in the fog lamps, rear diffusers, the shape of the taillights and rear spoilers make each one unique.

Feels

The interior of the Cerato is composed of simplistic designs and even simpler materials. The dashboard features artificial carbon fiber trim that starts near the driver’s door and forms a wave like motif until nearing the centre of the dashboard. Passengers riding in the back of the Cerato are likely to be equally comfortable in the Sedan, Hatchback or Coupe, as all three provide 913mm of legroom as well as rear A/C vents.

Engineering

The Cerato is fitted with a MacPherson strut front suspension and features a dual-path strut insulator to disperse shocks and vibrations and enhance steering stability. Additionally, the newly introduced Flex Steer system provides three driving modes (Comfort, Normal and Sport) that deliver the appropriate level of steering assistance for different driving conditions.

What’s on offer?

The Cerato Sedan and Hatchback receive the same powerhouses under the hood. The 1.6 litre engine produces 128 horsepower and 157 Nm of torque, while the bigger 2.0 litre engine produces 159 horsepower and 194 Nm of torque. The Coupe on the other hand steps it up a notch as the 1.6 litre turbocharged unit produces 201 horsepower and 265 Nm of torque, while the normally aspirated 2.0 litre engine produces 159 horsepower and 194 Nm of torque. Both engines in all three body styles are mated to a 6 speed automatic transmission and offer paddle shifters to enhance the feeling of driving.

Summing it…

The sedan to transport a small family, the hatchback for slightly more practicality and the coupe for those fun filled weekends. From the looks of it, the Cerato offers something for everyone, and with a price tag ranging from AED 54,900 to AED 78,900, it’s reasonable too!