Kia has retained the Euro-inspired dark theme inside the cabin and there are also new materials across the dash, hood lining, door trims and console. The changes inside have been added to deliver a higher-quality look and feel. Kia says the seat structure is the same as the old model but the cloth trim has been updated to a new, hard-wearing design for models where leather isn’t standard. The base Cerato doesn’t get a reverse-view camera but does get front and rear parking sensors.

 

While the entry Cerato grade gets a basic audio system there is still USB input and iPod connectivity plus Bluetooth, as well as steering wheel mounted controls. Buyers who opt for an S Auto model, though, can upgrade to a 7.0-inch touchscreen system with Android Auto. Apple CarPlay is coming as well and the upgrade can be added later free of charge at Kia dealers. All other grades get this 7.0-inch screen with satellite navigation as standard equipment.

There’s a six-speed manual (available on S grades only) or a six-speed automatic (available across all variants). Automatic Ceratos get Kia’s Drive Mode Select system, which comprises ‘Normal’, ‘Eco’ and ‘Sport’ modes. The Cerato SLi also gets steering wheel-mounted paddle-shifters. We tested the shifters briefly at launch, and they are snappy enough, but we can’t imagine too many Cerato owners using them extensively.

Part of the Cerato’s compelling value story comes from the included safety kit across various models. All Ceratos get six airbags and a five-star ANCAP rating for starters. Si grade gets Blind Spot Detection and Rear Cross Traffic Alert, while SLi grade adds Lane Departure Warning System and Forward Collision Warning System. The LDWS can be disabled via a dash-mounted switch. Hill Start Assist and Electronic Stability Control is standard for all Ceratos.

We liked the cabin ergonomics and design, and there’s a comfortable air of quality throughout the cabin, too, which makes longer drives pleasurable. The seating position is excellent and there’s still plenty of room in the second row, even behind longer-legged front-seat passengers. The pillars aren’t ridiculously thick, but the A-pillar did get in the way for some of the tighter corners we had to navigate. The major controls, including the screen on vehicles so equipped are perfectly positioned.

The column-mounted power steering system has been extensively tuned and benefits from a new 32-bit processor, replacing the old 16-bit system. Kia has tested the suspension across a variety of roads and conditions as it has done for all local models of late, and the ride quality is noticeable on the bumpy B-roads we drove at launch. What’s most impressive, even in the base model, is how well-balanced the Cerato is at speed, while still managing to absorb even larger bumps and mid-corner ruts. It’s a solid all-round set-up, even in the base Cerato.

In fact, the slightly softer ride offered up by the 16-inch wheels and tyres was our pick over the higher grades with lower-profile rubber. We tend to think the base model or one step up the ladder might be the way to go. The high-spec model we tested with the 17-inch wheels was still comfortable but didn’t ride with the same supple composure of the model shod with the 16s.

There are firmer springs up front, which Kia claims delivers sharper turn-in and response. There’s nothing wrong with the front-end poise either, although the standard Nexen rubber runs out of ability well before the chassis does. Sadly, Kia’s supply agreement with Nexen means there are no Continental tyres standard on new Cerato. The Cerato’s retuned front springs offer better balance, and slightly harder bushes are also added. Kia’s suspension expert Graham Gambould told us that the secondary ride and insulation is vastly better compared to the standard car.

The 2.0-litre engine is a willing performer that doesn’t hesitate to wind its way right up to redline. It sounds a little harsh at the very outer reaches of the rev range as some small-capacity engines can, but progress is always smooth and there’s no vibrations or nastiness entering the cabin. The transmission options are both smooth, with the auto shifting seamlessly and the manual a pleasure to use. Not so long ago, you’d never have recommended a buyer opt for an auto in this segment, but this Kia six-speed is a great transmission.

There’s also the Kia warranty, and roadside assistance story to take into account, which makes the brand hard to resist at this end of the market where every dollar really does count. Seven-year warranties and included roadside assistance is hard to ignore for both initial purchase safety and even resale value a few years down the track if you want to move on.