Introduction
Everyone wants the highest specifications at the lowest possible price, especially when purchasing a new car. Where can you find such specifications? From Korean car manufacturers. They are renowned for providing exceptional value for the investment you make in their vehicles. However, the car we're discussing today has truly surprised me; with all its features, it is hard to believe it is offered at such a competitive price. Let me introduce you to the 2019 Kia Cerato, which is available for just 78,900 AED.
Exterior Design
At first glance, the new Cerato clearly draws inspiration from Kia's latest model, the Stinger, giving it a sporty character. Although Kia has maintained the same wheelbase length as the previous model, the overall length has increased by 80 mm.
The new Kia identity is evident in the 2019 Cerato, featuring the "Tiger-nose grille" design, complemented by four daytime running lights that enhance the headlights and repositioned turn signals. Additionally, this model includes fog lights and electrically folding side mirrors.
This version also boasts 17-inch alloy wheels, while the rear features taillights that span the width of the car, creating an impression of greater width and luxury. The rear turn signals have also been repositioned lower.
Interior Design
Upon entering the cabin, you'll immediately notice the spacious interior with a simple design that enhances the overall roominess. The touchscreen is mounted above the dashboard for easier access, adding a modern touch to the 2019 Cerato, along with circular air conditioning vents. The materials used throughout are of high quality compared to other vehicles in this class, with our model featuring dual-tone leather on the seats and doors, along with leather and metal accents in the cabin and on the steering wheel.
The rear seats also maintain a high quality of materials, providing excellent space for two adults with ample head and legroom.
The car is equipped with a very large trunk compared to other vehicles in its class, with a capacity of 502 liters. In comparison, the Corolla's trunk measures only 370 liters. Moreover, you can easily increase trunk space by folding down the rear seats.
Technological Features
The all-new 2019 Kia Cerato comes with a variety of technological features, including:
- Remote start capability via the key.
- Keyless entry and ignition.
- 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with quick-access buttons for audio control and Bluetooth connectivity, though it lacks a navigation system, as it supports Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.
- Dual-zone automatic climate control with rear vents.
- Heated and ventilated front leather seats, with power adjustments for the driver’s seat featuring two memory settings, and an automatic seat adjustment function upon door opening for easier entry and exit.
- 4.2-inch display in the instrument cluster for information display.
- Two USB ports for charging and connecting phones in the front, along with a dedicated wireless charging pad above.
- Steering wheel controls for the information display and audio system.
- Cruise control.
- Automatic headlights.
- Auto-dimming rearview mirror.
- Front and rear parking sensors, along with a rearview camera and rear cross-traffic alert.
- Blind-spot monitoring system.
- 6 airbags.
- Sunroof.
- The trunk opens automatically when the key is sensed in your pocket for over three seconds while standing behind the car.
Driving Experience
The 2019 Cerato is available in the UAE market with two engines: the larger one is a 2.0-liter four-cylinder producing 152 horsepower, while the model we have today features a 1.6-liter four-cylinder generating 128 horsepower and 154 Nm of torque. Notably, it comes equipped with a 6-speed automatic transmission rather than a CVT, providing sufficient power for city driving and adequate acceleration for a car of its size on highways.
One of the standout features of driving the Cerato is its steering feel, which is not as light as expected for this class of vehicles, offering enough feedback for precise handling. While it may not match the precision of the Mazda 3, it certainly outperforms the Toyota Corolla.
The Cerato also offers three driving modes: "Comfort" for relaxed driving, "Economy" for fuel efficiency, and "Sport," which enhances performance when the gear lever is shifted to the left.
Fuel consumption is rated at 7.5 liters per 100 km, a figure achieved through a mix of city and highway driving.
Conclusion
The 2019 Cerato undoubtedly surpasses its competitors in the market, such as the Toyota Corolla, Nissan Sunny, Mazda 3, and Hyundai Accent, especially with prices ranging from 57,900 AED to 78,900 AED for the fully equipped 1.6-liter version, reaching up to 81,900 AED for the top 2.0-liter variant.
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