Kia Motors SA has replaced the Shuma II with hatchback and saloon versions of the new Cerato.Kia Motors SA has replaced the Shuma II with hatchback and saloon versions of the new Cerato.
The new Korean range offers neat, inoffensive styling, a choice of petrol and diesel engines, and an automatic version.
There is a strong European influence in the overall design of the four- and five-door versions of the Cerato. Note the saloon’s quirky front end air intakes (with the foglights incorporated), body-coloured radiator grille, angular headlights and chrome-tipped bonnet. The saloon’s rear styling is accentuated by an arched boot lid and clear-lensed rear combination lamps.
By contrast, the five-door model’s black-accented headlamp bezels blend into the front bumper. The Cerato hatchback has aggressively-flared fenders and robust C- and D-pillars. Also note the enlarged side mouldings, fold-away side mirrors and wrap-around combination rear-light clusters, wiper and washer, high-mounted stop lamp and roof antenna.
Kia Motors SA claims the Cerato offers “top of the class” front and rear headroom, above-average legroom and an abundance of additional storage spaces. The “fullmaflex” seatbacks are said to support essential areas according to the drivers weight distribution and a lever-type mechanism adjusts the seat height.
Standard features on all models include air-conditioner, central locking, electric windows, electrically-adjustable driver’s seat, keyless remote entry (with a built-in panic button which will trigger the car alarm) and power-steering.
Both derivatives are equipped with dual-link rear suspension and McPherson struts (with stabiliser bar) at the front. The four-door Cerato is offered with a 78 kW 1,6-litre DOHC petrol engine (which develops maximum power at 5 800 r/min and 146 N.m of torque at 4 000 r/min) and a 2,0-litre CRDi diesel. The latter powerplant’s 83 kW power peak is achieved at 4 000 r/min, with 250 N.m of torque available at 2 000 r/min.
In terms of safety, the Cerato has a four-channel, four-sensor ABS system that includes Electronic Brake Force Distribution and Brake Assist systems. There are also front airbags, seatbelt pretensioners and load limiters and an active headrest system, which automatically moves forward in the event of a rear collision. The fuel cut system on the petrol model will detect an impact and immediately shut off the fuel supply and the automatic headlight control system ensures that the lights switch on as soon as the ambient daylight goes below a safe visibility level.
The Cerato is sold with a three-year/100 000km warranty, three-year/unlimited mileage Roadside Assistance and a three-year/60 000 km maintenance plan as standard.
