Third generation Cerato

Kia launched the updated version of its Cerato small car in May 2016, bringing changes that aimed to bolster its best-selling vehicle.

These included styling revisions, cabin updates, fresh tweaks to the locally tuned suspension, a ‘Drive Mode Select’ system for automatic variants and, depending on the model grade, advanced driver-assist systems such as blind-spot detection (with lane change assist and rear cross traffic alert), lane departure warning and forward collision warning.

The 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine powering the entire range remained unchanged, producing 112kW at 6200rpm and 192Nm of torque at 4000rpm. Fuel economy was a claimed 7.1L/100km for all models, regardless of body style or transmission.

Standard safety equipment range-wide included six airbags, ABS brakes with electronic brake-force distribution and brake assist, auto door locking (with emergency unlock), front and rear foglights, front and rear parking sensors with a visual display, electronic stability and traction control and hill start assist.

The exterior had been refreshed by Kia’s California-based design team in line with family styling cues, with updated black or gloss-black trim for the Kia ‘tiger-nose’ grille, as well as updated headlights, bumper and foglamps, and a reprofiled bonnet. Sedan models also received a new rear bumper and tail-light design.