Kia Cerato launched - From RM99,888 !

 The highly anticipated Kia Cerato has been officially launched in Malaysia, it will serve as the replacement model of the aging (but still with attractive design) Kia Forte. Following the Forte's footstep, Kia loaded the Cerato with more features while still making its Japanese competitors shiver by offering attractive price. The price on-the-road including insurance start from RM99,888 for the 1.6 litre Cerato to RM118,888 for the 2.0 litre.

Like the Forte, the C-segment Cerato is available in 1.6 litre and 2.0 litre engine options. The 1.6 litre Gamma II MPI engine produces 130PS and 157Nm of torque, close to the performance figure produced by common 1.8 litre engines. The 2.0 litre Nu MPI engine, on the other hand, produces 161PS and 194Nm. 1.6 litre engine promises a 6.8 litre/100km fuel consumption while the latter is rated at 7.0 litre/100km. Both engine is mated to a 6-speed automatic gearbox.

 The cabin design is improved, albeit looks gloomy with the monotone colour scheme. The water ripple-inspired dashboard surface on the front passenger side is creative. The 1.6 litre Cerato is loaded with a long list of equipment: Cruise control, 10-way electrically adjustable driver seat with two memory setting, daytime running LED light, exterior welcome light, fog lights, keyless entry with push-start button, park assist with reverse camera, auto demister, FlexSteer (Comfort, Normal and Sport, all 3 for different steering feel) and Bluetooth hands-free control.

2.0 litre Cerato gains HID Xenon (Halogen in the 1.6) headlights, leather seats with air ventilation for the driver seat (fabric with no ventilation in 1.6), supervision cluster, sunroof and rear spoiler.

With a generous 2700mm wheelbase (50mm more than Forte), rear passenger enjoy more legroom than before. Features such as rear air vent and dual-zone climate control with cluster ioniser will make the ride more comfortable.

Kia is not skimpy in the safety department too. 6 airbags even for the 1.6 Cerato! There are also Vehicle Stability Management (VSM), TSC, ESC and ISOFIX. Pretty amazing for a 1.6 C-segment car!

Available for the Cerato is a 5-year unlimited mileage warranty, adding more value to the Cerato. 

*Thanks for reading! Like my page at SimonHar.com and subscribe SiMon HaR_!