All-new Kia Cerato Sedan Steps Up

May 2, 2013

All-new Kia Cerato Sedan Steps Up

The all-new Kia Cerato sedan has arrived in New Zealand with class leading style and design.

The new Cerato is not only larger than the outgoing model, it is the biggest compact sedan in its class, with a wheelbase that is identical to its more sizeable stablemate, the Kia Sorento SUV and only 95mm shorter than the full-size Optima sedan from the segment above.

Consequently, the 2013 Kia Cerato now boasts an exceptionally roomy passenger cabin and a more comfortable and sophisticated ride, along with hi-tech steering, new engines and a host of additional convenience and safety features.

The third generation Cerato is also one of the smoothest and best designed four-door sedans on the road, with its slick aerodynamic shape slicing through the air more cleanly than almost any other car, thanks to its cd drag figure of just 0.27 (down from 0.29).

And yet, the new Cerato sedan LX model enters the New Zealand market priced from a sharp $29,990 + ORC - representing exceptional value for money.

Compared with the second-generation, new Cerato is 30mm longer (now 4560 mm), 14mm lower (1435mm) and 5mm wider (1780mm), with the wheelbase extended by 50mm (2700 mm). The boot capacity is increased to 421 litres (SAE) – among the largest in class.

“Cerato has been one of the most popular models in the world for Kia and once again we are introducing a new model that sets itself apart through outstanding innovation, design and quality,” says Todd McDonald, General Manager of Kia Motors New Zealand.

More than 2.5 million Cerato and Forte (its name in the US market) cars have been sold worldwide since the first generation went on sale in 2004 and this model is expected to further underline the significant advances made by Kia in such a short time.

Designed at Kia’s American Design Centre in Irvine, California under the direction of President and Chief Design Officer, Peter Schreyer, the new Cerato has cab-forward styling, a coupe-like roofline, distinctive concave door contours and a rising beltline with chrome molding extending into the C-pillar to project an aura of elegance.

The high-tech interior features a sweeping new dashboard, with carbon-look trim and soft-touch materials around the cabin that exude more quality. Interior comfort is enhanced by lowering the cabin floor and the front seats by 26mm and those in the rear by 20mm and by fitting wider front seat cushions with an increased cushion angle for greater comfort and thigh support.

Two all-new fuel-efficient engines are offered in the 2013 Kia Cerato sedan. A high-compression, direct-injected 2-litre GDI CVVT engine powers the top of the range SX model, delivering 129kW (173hp) @ 6500rpm (+12%) and 209Nm of torque @ 4700rpm (+8%). Other models in the Cerato range (LX & EX) are powered by the 110kW 1.8-litre DOHC CVVT engine. Thanks to a lighter kerb weight (down by as much as 70kg), through greater use of high tensile steel, the 1.8 models have a similar power-to-weight ratio to the previous 2-litre Cerato.

A 6-speed sequential sports shift automatic is standard in all Cerato sedan models, with the SX model featuring sporty paddle shifters on the steering wheel.

The new Cerato’s ANZAC suspension has been upgraded to improve agility and refinement, so that it better suits New Zealand road conditions and delivers a much quieter, as well as smoother ride. The suspension’s geometry is modified to deliver improved steering feel and an all-new electronic Flex-steer system enables the driver to dial up a choice of comfort/normal/sport modes to match their individual driving style and physical requirements.

Safety continues to be a key priority and focus for Kia with the new Cerato sedan targeting 5-star ANCAP rating through its stronger bodyshell, standard ESP programme, front-side airbags and active horizontally adjustable front headrests.

The new Kia Cerato will be easier to spot on the road, with distinctive LED daytime running lights featuring on the EX and SX models for increased visibility and safety.

All Cerato models are highly equipped, including remote keyless entry with standard alarm, power windows, power/heated door mirrors, front and rear parking sensors, steering wheel-mounted cruise and audio controls, 6-speaker audio systems with Bluetooth, multifunction trip computer and front fog lamps.

Among the additional features on the top-of-the-range SX are a power-operated sunroof, 3 stage heated and cooling front seats, integrated memory seat, leather upholstery, reversing camera, dual zone climate control, smart key with push start/stop button, Xenon headlights, rear spoiler and 17” alloy wheels and low profile tyres.

ENDS

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