Kia’s quest continues-New Cerato revealed
Kia has revealed the third iteration of their Cerato sedan at the Detroit Motor Show. Positioned to rival cars like the Toyota Corolla and Chevrolet Cruze, the new Cerato displays a more elegant and “grown-up” look.
The new Cerato is 80mm longer and 18mm wider than its predecessor, allowing for an increase in interior space as well as better rear legroom. The new model is also 16% stiffer than the previous model, resulting in improved dynamics and handling assisted by a reworked suspension set-up.
The interior also looks a lot more premium than before by adopting a new horizontal design language. Surfaces are covered in high-quality materials, with the centrepiece of the dash being a 20.3cm ‘floating’ infotainment touch display.
Connectivity is taken care of with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and an optional 320-watt Harmon Kardon sound system, the latter being a first for Kia. There are also new driver aids that can be ticked on the options list, such as Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist and Adaptive Cruise Control.
Power is delivered by a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine, along with improvements to engine efficiency and fuel economy. Maximum output sits at 110kW of power and 180Nm of torque.
The 2.0-litre unit can be mated to either a 6-speed manual gearbox or an all-new CVT gearbox exclusively built in-house by Kia. The new ‘box is specifically designed to eliminate the usual annoyances expected from a conventional CVT gearbox by making use of a chain-type belt and an adaptive shift-style to reduce the ‘rubber band’ feel. The engine also receives a sound insulating cover to hide the droning of the engine.
KIA South Africa is expected to launch the new Cerato towards Q4 of 2018. No pricing information has been released, but we can expect the new Cerato to be priced on par with the current model.
