Kia Cerato 2011 review

WE turn the spotlight on automotive's newest and brightest stars, as we ask the questions to which you want the answers. Ultimately, however, there is only one question that really needs answering would you buy one?

What is it? 

This is the five door hatchback variant of Kia's attractive Cerato which followed the sedan by about 18 months. The entry spec' test car featured Kia's excellent six-speed automatic transmission, essentially the reason we wanted to drive it.

How much? 

Keenly priced at $20,240 plus on roads.

What are the competitors?

Too many to list really but including: Ford Focus, Mazda3, Holden Cruze, Hyundai i30, Mitsubishi Lancer, Nissan Tiida, Sooby Impreza, Suzuki SX4, Toyota Corolla and more.

What's under the bonnet? 

Has a punchy, twin cam, 2.0-litre, four-cylinder, petrol with variable valve timing that's good for 115kW/194Nm — right at the top of the class.

How does it go? 

Great — plenty of zip off the mark, smooth, relatively quiet, economical, willing to rev — ticks all the boxes. The throttle flare problem on manual variant isn't evident on the auto. No paddle shift on Si - who cares, leave it in D

Is it economical? 

Sips lightly at 7.7-litres/100km — not bad for a 2.0-litre auto.The manual is only a couple of points better.

Is it 'green'? 

Green tinge, passes Euro 4 emissions regs, OK on the carbon dioxide. Don't know about the manufacturing process.

Is it safe? 

Gets four stars

Is it comfortable? 

Very — great ride/handling compromise, relatively comfy seats, minimal noise intrusion, plenty of kit to keep you happy on a drive.

What's it like to drive? 

Impressive thanks in part to the six speed auto. We would buy the auto in preference to the manual — there's a small premium but it's worth it.

Gets off the line quickly and rolls along sweetly at speed. Plenty in reserve at the push of the throttle. Impressive dynamics, looks good on the road.

Is it value for money? 

Excellent value all things considered though the Mitsu' Lancer at similar money makes it a hard call... Si model scores a full-size spare, six bags, cruise control with steering wheel controls, rear spoiler power windows and mirrors, Bluetooth for phone and audio streaming, six speaker audio.

Would we buy one? 

Yes, we'd shop it against some other contenders and base the decision on the deal. There is no cringe factor at all with buying the Cerato hatch — it's as good or better than anything else in the class. Roomy, good looking and we prefer it over the sedan.