Kia Cerato vs Mitsubishi Lancer LX

It's the pick of the range: 16-inch alloys, reversing camera, parking sensors, auto headlights, keyless go, folding and heated mirrors, leather-wrapped wheel with phone and audio controls and touchscreen Bluetooth/USB linked infotainment system.  

The LX has heated seats (power adjustable for the driver), leather trim, keyless entry and start, Bluetooth (voice activated and linked to the touchscreen six-speaker audio), well-hidden USB input and climate control. The automatic is of the continuously variable variety.

The Cerato's direct-injection 2.0-litre (129kW/209Nm) pips the Lancer for power and delivers 7.4L/100km from the 50L tank. The smooth auto comes with paddle shifters and lays claim to being the most compact six-speeder around.

The little Lancer is propelled by a willing alloy 2.0-litre (110kW/197Nm), with the brand's staple variable intake valve lift and timing system. It sips from the 59-litre tank at about 7.0L/100km. The drivetrain isn't as quiet or as refined as the Cerato's.

Cabin space is good and boot above average (421L) but the driving position, even with reasonable seat and steering adjustment, feels long-armed, short-legged. Rear occupants get vents, which some brands still ignore. Sun visors extend -- a nice touch.

Bearing the familiar snout of the three-diamond brand, the five-year-old Lancer looks long in the tooth. It's not ugly but it's not as pretty as some newer opposition. The cabin fits a nuclear family and the 400-litre boot rivals bigger models.

Yet to be tested but the outgoing car won four NCAP stars. Kia expects five, thanks to six airbags, stability and traction control, seat belt reminders, automatic headlights, rear parking sensors and reversing camera. It lacks rain-sensing wipers.

It has a five-star NCAP rating, thanks to seven airbags front, front-side, curtain and one for the driver's knee, and adds stability and traction control, anti-lock brakes and emergency brake assist. Reversing camera and rear sensors are fitted.

It's in for a tough bout in the small car division. Willing drivetrain, with road manners that show Kia's Aussie engineering input to great effect. The combination of quiet cabin and peppy powerplant make the little Korean a worthy choice.

The lively power plant is more flexible than the outputs suggest -- it's among a handful of cars that achieve claimed fuel use in the real world. Nimble rather than agile and with a decent ride quality, it can cart kids without rear seat complaints.