2019 Kia Cerato

Kia’s entry to the C-segment is the Cerato. Competition for this model comes in the form of the Honda Civic, Volkswagen Jetta, Toyota Corolla Altis, Peugeot 408 THP, Hyundai Elantra, and Mazda3. The Cerato is locally-assembled at Naza Kia's plant in Gurun, Kedah.

In the two variants that Naza Kia Malaysia have launched are a familiar 1.6-litre Gamma engine, and the introduction of a new 2.0-litre Nu engine. Both powerplants are equipped with Dual Continuously Variable Valve Timing (D-CVVT) technology and feature electronic fuel injection.

The 1.6-litre Gamma engine is as seen before on the Kia Forte, and welcomes back the 130 PS and 156 Nm of torque at 4,850rpm. The entry-level Cerato is, of course, the more fuel-efficient and eco-friendly of the two, returning 6.8 litres per 100 kilometres.

The more powerful Nu mill is here to replace the 2.0-litre Theta II previously deployed by the Forte, and introduces slightly more power than the Theta II; a maximum power output of 152 PS and 6,500RPM and 192 Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm is on tap.

Both variants of the Kia Cerato drive the front wheels via a six-speed automatic transmission, with paddle shifters and manual sequential shifts on the lever.

Among the key features in the Cerato are 17-inch wheels, automatic air-conditioning, keyless entry and start button, reverse camera, 6 airbags, and LED tail lamps. 

All new Kia Cerato comes with a Naza Kia Malaysia backed factory warranty that covers 5 years and unlimited mileage.