Kia Cerato S Premium 2014 Review

Kia has taken the plunge with Cerato, especially concerning auto transmission which is now standard on all models except the base Cerato S. 

It reflects the buyer profile of small cars -  most of whom opt for an auto. In the Cerato’s case, it’s an excellent six speeder that runs across the entire Kia range.

We got hold of a new addition to the Cerato range - the one up from the bottom S Premium.

VALUE

It has a whole heap of kit as standard and is essentially the base S with the options many people select or want.

This includes satnav,reverse camera, 7-inch info screen, 16-inch alloys, auto headlights, DVD player, Bluetooth audio and phone, cruise control front and rear park sensors trip computer and aircon.

Not much is missing from the list and it goes for a tempting $24,590 - with the six speed auto as standard.

Kia offers Cerato S premium in four door sedan and five door hatch variants and all have a five star crash rating.

We looked at this car against direct competitors such as the Toyota Corolla and Mitsubishi Lancer, both of which it comfortably outpaces on most fronts with more kit, better ride, more attractive styling and better warranty.

It’s essentially the same car as Hyundai’s i30 and Elantra - with a Kia styling job.
Nothing to complain about there that’s for sure.

DESIGN

We really like the look of the car - it’s a bit like the striking Proceed GT we drove a few weeks ago - but with less get-go and less attitude.

The characteristic family styling cues are evident from all angles and the interior is a study in efficient modernity - in grey.

ENGINE / TRANSMISSION

Power comes from a lower spec and older design 1.8-litre multi point four-cylinder with variable valve timing where the higher grade models have a direct injection 2.0-litre with variable valve timing.

The engine is good for 110kW/178Nm output and can sip as little as 7.1-litres/100km using regular unleaded.

DRIVING

The drive is all good offering a comfortable and controlled ride thanks to the locally calibrated suspension and it also has Kia’s clever multi-mode steering with light, normal and sporty feel.

The interior is stylish and functional complete with plenty of soft feel surfaces and a mix of fascia material.

It has well shaped seats with adequate side bolsters and adjustments.
The rears are 60/40 split folding and our five door hatch has a large (expandable) load space.

In performance terms it’s no sports car but provides enough acceleration and throttle response to keep you happy.