Kia Motors has launched another new model in mid-sized four door sedan or five door hatch models. The Cerato’s aimed at giving he Toyota Corolla/RunX family and all their competitors severe headaches, and with the value-for-money it offers we think it’s likely to succeed.
The 1,6 litre 78 kW petrol sedan and the five door hatch both retail for R129 995 with manual transmissions, while the automatic five-door hatch will set you back an extra R10 000. The flagship four-door 83 kW 2.0 turbodiesel comes in at R164 995 with manual transmission — an auto version will be here in March next year.
Standard features on all models include aircon, ABS brakes, central locking, dual front airbags, electric windows, keyless remote access, active headrests that automatically move to the safest position when a rear impact is felt, and height adjustable power steering. The upmarket turbodiesel comes with 16″ alloy wheels, leather upholstery and numerous extra comfort features.
After driving the cars at their Western Cape launch, my view that the Koreans are fast heading towards the upper echelons of the motor industry was reinforced, because every Kia or Hyundai I drive is just so much better than its predecessor.
The diesel Cerato is obviously the pick of the bunch, but the base model 1,6 petrol versions with manual transmission offer extraordinary value. The cars are well built and well equipped, and we reckon they deserve to be well received — by everybody except their opposition, that is!