Kia recently launched the new Cerato, and customers who have purchased it were invited to collect their cars at a grand event set at the Marina Bay Sands Expo Convention Centre on 16th August 2018. Despite not having seen or test driven the new Cerato, over 700 customers have indicated their interest in the car.
The event also signifies Kia's largest ever car collection here in Singapore, with 80 cars occupying the event hall space. New owners and guests were treated to dinner and drinks as well as a live band, and an introduction to the car by Eric Chan, Managing Director of Cycle & Carriage Singapore.
The Cerato, currently in its third generation, will replace the Forte K3 here in Singapore. The new Cerato continues the Forte K3's value proposition further and is available in three trims here - SX, EX and L.
The Cerato now looks sportier, with sleek and dynamic styling cues reminiscent of the range of Kias currently available. Looking more muscular, it features the signature 'tiger-nose' grille that is also present on Kia's flagship performance sedan, the Stinger. The resemblance to the Stinger carries on to the head lights, optionally available in full LED.
At the same time, aside from the increase in length, the Cerato has grown wider by 20mm, along with the dashboard, which creates the feeling of a more spacious interior.
Aeronautic elements grace the cabin, with circular vents that adorn the dash, as well as an increased number of soft-touch points that create a comfortable and visually appealing space.
Stronger, lightweight seat frames are present, and provide a more comfortable seating position with increased lumbar support, which is great for longer drives. The car also benefits from a stiffer body, 16% more compared to the previous generation. The increased stiffness also plays a major role in reducing noise, vibration and harshness levels, and provides a more engaging driving experience.
More importantly, the new Cerato comes with a full connectivity suite paired to an 8-inch colour display as standard, and includes Apple Carplay and Android Auto connectivity options. The infotainment system sits neatly on the dash, within the driver's line of sight. It also comes with wireless charging for compatible devices.
The car is powered by a 1.6-litre Dual-Continuously Variable Valve Timing (D-CVVT) engine, which produces 126bhp and 155Nm of torque. It is currently available for purchase through Kia's authorised distributor, Cycle & Carriage.
Prices as of press time (inclusive of COE)
Kia Cerato 1.6 L (A) - $77,999
Kia Cerato 1.6 EX (A) - $84,999
Kia Cerato 1.6 SX (A) - $92,999
