Kia’s third-generation Cerato small sedan has arrived, sporting bold new looks, a rich equipment list and dimensions that dwarf the car it replaces.

But for the moment, it is only the sedan, with the hatch version following a few months later, and the more swoopy Koup two-door at the end of the year.

It will face some stiff competition from other big-name rivals, including the reworked Holden Cruze due on sale this month, the big-bottomed Ford Focus sedan, and Australia’s best-selling car, the ageing Mazda3.

A new Corolla-based sedan, matching the fresh-faced hatch already on sale, is expected early next year.

With almost one in four sales coming out of the small-car segment, Cerato faces a tough challenge ahead.

However, Kia thinks clever packaging, smooth interior and exterior styling and an improved experience behind the wheel will woo buyers.

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