Kia Cerato 2005 review

Kia has lifted its game hugely in the past few years. Witness the Sorento, Tucson and Cerato, all attractively styled and well put together vehicles.

Cerato is a mainstream compact sedan with plenty of appeal for a buyer on a budget. It offers a whole lot of car for the $18990 drive away ask.

There's a four speed auto available for an extra two grand – drive away.

• Roomy body, five seater, five three point belts, big boot.

   

• 2.0-litre, DOHC engine has 101kw/182Nm output giving peppy performance even in auto.

   
• Auto is a four speeder, doesn't miss a beat, lacks a little smoothness changing under hard acceleration. No sequential mode – big deal.

   

• Ride/handling impressive thanks to strut front, multi-link rear suspension.

   

• Power steering, power windows, remote central locking and aircon included in the package.

   

• Heated exterior mirrors, electrically adjustable too. Almost instant demist in the cold.

   

• Audio is six speaker, pleasing sound, easy to operate.

   

• Safety features include dual front air bags. ABS not available but four wheel discs.

   

• Low noise, vibration and harshness through most engine speeds, quiet on the freeway.

   

• Economical in mixed driving expect around 8.5l/100km out of auto. Tank holds 55 litres.

   

• Interior looks modern, airy, better than many other offerings in the segment.

   

• Finish is up with Japanese, smooth paint, neat panel fit, tidy interior, chunky door close.

   

• Like the styling, crisp lines, purposeful front, tidy rear – something different.

   

• Smooth quiet ride over rough surfaces.