Kia Motors popular Cerato gets a makeover
By Kia New Zealand Jun 24th 2016
The Kia Cerato has received a generous makeover for 2016 that features a bold new face, 2.0-litre power across the range and upgraded levels of equipment.
The facelift Cerato hatch and sedan, released this month and now on sale in New Zealand, adopt new front-end styling that brings a slender wraparound look to the headlights, incorporating slim new integrated LED daytime running lights for all models.
The new headlights blend in with a longer and more upright ‘Tiger Nose’ grille, along with a more muscular looking bonnet and updated front bumper that boast larger fog lights and wider intake vents.
But one of the most important changes has taken place under the bonnet where the previous 1.8-litre and 2.0-litre engine choices have been replaced by a single 2.0-litre unit from the ’Nu’ family of engines, now fitted to all Cerato variants.
In the latest Cerato, the ‘Nu’ 2.0-litre MPI engine produces 112kW of power at 6,200rpm and 192Nm of torque, which peaks at 4,000rpm, 700rpm lower than either of the two previous engines. With the peak torque arriving earlier in the rev range, it makes the updated Cerato more responsive.
The ‘Nu’ 2.0-litre engine benefits from a number of changes that are designed to improve efficiency. These include advanced continuous variable valve timing (CVVT) and a new variable induction system, carefully balancing the intake of fuel and air into the combustion chamber for optimal efficiency. A low friction oil seal and variable oil pump system reduce mechanical friction to minimise pumping and frictional losses, while an improved cooling system and optimised injectors reduce the level of emissions from the engine, so that it now emits less CO2 than even the previous 1.8-litre Cerato.
As before, the 2016 Cerato is equipped with a smart 6-speed sequential automatic transmission, but now features Drive Mode Select providing a choice of Normal/Eco/Sport modes to suit driver preferences.
Improvements have been made to the speed-sensitive motor driven power steering, bringing increased steering responsiveness. The suspension system developed through the ANZAC programme fine tunes the car’s ride and handling for driving conditions in this part of the world.
There are now three models in the new Cerato range – an entry level LX, mid-range EX and top spec Limited (LTD).
The latest Cerato also benefits from a new suite of safety technology designed to assist the driver avoid accidents. The mid-range Cerato EX is now equipped with Blind Spot Detection, Lane Change Assist and Rear Cross Traffic Alert, while the top model LTD also gains Lane Departure Warning System and Forward Collision Warning System.
All Cerato models have a large 7-inch reversing camera, along with front and rear parking sensors with visual in-dash display and a 5-star ANCAP safety rating. Smart proximity key with push-button start also comes as standard.
Inside, the roomy cabin has a sophisticated feel, with leather upholstery fitted to the top two models. All Ceratos have a leather-bound steering wheel and leather gear shift knob, along with a height adjustable driver’s seat. Additionally the Cerato LTD has heated front seats and ventilated driver’s seat, as well as 8-way electric adjustment and a powered lumbar support. Also standard on the Cerato LTD is a power sunroof with tilt/slide function.
The 2016 Cerato now incorporates a 7-inch colour touch screen audio system across all models, and becomes the first Kia model in New Zealand to feature Android Auto™, compatible with Android phones running 5.0 Lollipop or higher.
Android Auto™ connects to the user’s Android device and lets them access smartphone apps and functions through the in-car infotainment system, such as voice-guided Google Maps navigation, hands-free calls and texts, in addition to voice recognition. Android Auto™ also lets users stream music from Google Play Music™.
“The Cerato is an outstanding car and the changes to the updated models we are now introducing to this market lift the bar even further,” says Todd McDonald, General Manager of Kia Motors New Zealand.
The new 2016 Kia Cerato range is now on sale in New Zealand starting from $31,990 + ORC. For added peace of mind, every Kia Cerato model comes with a 5-year/100,000km warranty programme and 5 years free 24-hour road side assistance.
