VALUE
Performance and equipment are central to the appeal of Kia’s Cerato GT, the most expensive model in Kia’s small-car range.
Priced from $37,990 drive-away, it’s about $10,000 more than the entry-level Cerato.
But the GT justifies its expense with a more powerful engine, sportier suspension, a handful of cosmetic touches and a long list of standard features such as leather seats and an eight-speaker JBL stereo.
Kia’s seven-year, unlimited kilometer warranty is similarly generous. But capped price servicing for the Cerato GT is a little dear at about $470 per year, while the turbo motor’s 6.8L/100km fuel use is thirsty for a car this size.
COMFORT
Geared toward customers looking for a fully-loaded machine with a sporty side, the Cerato GT isn’t particularly plush.
Riding on 18-inch wheels with suspension both lower and firmer than regular models, it also has a throaty exhaust note and high-performance rubber that creates more road noise than everyday tires.
It’s not a limousine. But it is more luxurious than many other cars this size, thanks to features such as heated and cooled sports seats, dual-zone climate control, a sunroof and more.
There’s no stress operating the 10.25-inch infotainment screen with wireless charging and smartphone mirroring – you drop your phone in the right place and the car will automatically top up its battery while displaying key features on the central screen.
SAFETY
It shouldn’t come as a surprise to see that this car is stuffed to the gills with safety gear – active cruise control, autonomous emergency braking, lane keeping assistance and more.
There are clever touches you won’t find in most small cars, such as a safe exit warning system that watches out for traffic when passengers open their doors. There are also safety benefits in bigger brakes, tauter suspension and top-tier Michelin tires that deliver sharper reactions in emergency situations.
DRIVING
Powered by a 1.6-liter turbo engine, the Cerato GT has impressive 150kW and 265Nm peaks that deliver above-average acceleration. A flat-bottomed wheel with shift paddles linked to its seven-speed dual-clutch automatic steering transmission hints at sporty intent.
We call this sort of car a “warm hatch”, one with more muscle and better reflexes than most cars in this class, but not the uncompromising focus (and $50,000 price tag) of proper performance cars. Kia chose to fit firm shock absorbers to the Cerato, resulting in impressive poise when pressing on – and a harsher-than-expected ride on bumpy roads.
Proper hot hatches such as the VW Golf GTI and Hyundai i30 N have sophisticated multi-mode electronic suspension that allows drivers to choose suspension settings ranging from mild to wild, but Cerato owners have to live with a bumpy ride on every journey.
ALTERNATIVES
Mazda3 G25 SP, from about $35,900
drive away
Gorgeous looks, impressive dynamics and a 2.5-liter engine combine in an attractive package.
Hyundai i30 N-Line Premium, from about $38,400 drive-away
Same turbo engine and generous kit as the Kia, but a less sporty disposition.
Ford Fiesta ST, from about $37,500
drive away
Smaller than the Cerato but thrilling handling and a charming engine.
VERDICT
four stars
Well-equipped and fun to drive, the Kia Cerato GT is a great option for folks looking for a sporty drive without breaking the bank.
KIA CERATO GT
PRICE $37,990 drive away
ENGINE 1.6-litre 4-cyl turbo, 150kW and 265Nm
WARRANTY/SERVICE 7-year/unlimited km, about $3300 for 7 years
SAFETY Six airbags, auto emergency braking, active cruise control, lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert
THIRST 6.8L/100km
BOOT 428 liters
SPARE space saver
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