Review
If you're looking for uncomplaining transport then the Kia Cerato can offer plenty of utility, plus the reassurance of one of the best warranties in the business.
But compared to more modern rivals, not least Kia's new mid-sized Cee'd, the Cerato feels a long off the pace. It feels cheap and downmarket and the driving dynamics can't get close to those offered by the rest of the segment. A lack of engine choice, and pricetags that get dangerously close to those of mainstream alternatives mean that it's hard to see much appeal in the total package.
Behind the bland design the Cerato is solidly constructed, although the cabin materials feel very cheap and there's not a great deal of space for rear-seat passengers. Standard equipment is reasonable, including standard-fit air conditioning, but the Cerato does without the safety features of some more modern rivals.
It's no great shakes to drive, either, being loud and crude at motorway cruising speeds and prone to roll and lurch its way through corners. Undemanding urban trundling is dispatched painlessly enough, but most drivers will want a car capable of more than this. Only two engines are available: a 1.6 litre petrol that gives decent performance and an impressively frugal 1.5 litre diesel motor that suffers from a serious lack of refinement.