![2009 Kia Cerato SLi (copyright image)](i.kia.cerato.2009.sli.blue.h.fr.359.234.09jan.jpg) |
Kia's new Cerato sedan .....
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Kia's All-New Cerato Arrives
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Cerato
26th January, 2009
- $18,990 RRP entry price
- $19,990 RRP with optional ESP, TCS, cruise control and remote audio controls
- Lowest priced car in its class with six airbags standard
- Class-leading power
- Class-leading 4.5 star Green Vehicle rating
- 5-year/unlimited kilometre warranty
- 'Schreyer line' corporate grille
Modern and dynamic styling under the guidance of world-renowned Kia global design chief Peter Schreyer,
class-leading power, class-leading 4.5 stars Green Vehicle rating, six airbags standard in every model, iPod®
compatible audio system, European-standard ride and handling, 5-year/unlimited kilometre warranty for private
buyers, great value and a low entry price - the all-new Kia Cerato has it all.
Many commentators believe that, more than ever, new car buyers want vehicles that reflect positively on them
as owners and fulfill wide-ranging applications. Cars need to perform, only lightly touch the environment, look
good, deliver on safety, be reliable and be well-appointed.
Kia will bring a range of new and revamped models to the Australian market this year, well-endowed with
features, stunning looks and impressive value for money - in essence, cars that deliver on their promise.
First to arrive is the handsome new Kia Cerato, a compact sporty sedan that will meet the needs of many
Australian car buyers.
The new Cerato is the first Kia released in Australia to feature the new 'Schreyer line', a family corporate
grille design from the pen of Kia's global chief design officer, Peter Schreyer, who joined the company in 2006
from Germany's Volkswagen Group.
According to Schreyer, it's no surprise that design is the No.1 purchase influence but it is essential that
new designs match both the Kia brand value and the vision of the Kia brand.
As head of design, Schreyer has worked to develop a new, more contemporary look for all Kia vehicles.
The new Cerato is the first mass production Kia that embodies his thinking, and introduces a look that is
sporty with an element of aggression.
Eye-catching integrity of design is just one factor in new car buyers' minds. Customers want quality, safety,
reliability, value and low total cost of ownership. That's where the efficiencies of Kia's highly-developed
production facilities are displayed in the all-new Cerato, building cars in a smarter way with more efficient
use of materials.
New Cerato is the perfect choice for people seeking a modern, well-engineered and more efficient car to
reduce their ownership costs without compromising quality, safety or reliability.
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Available as an entry-level S model or a generously-equipped SLi model, the new Cerato bridges the gap
between small and medium cars with the space, performance, features and value that many Australian car buyers
are seeking, without having to pay more for a medium-sized car with a larger and less economical engine.
Longer and wider than its predecessor, the new Kia Cerato has a spacious and comfortable interior with room
for five occupants and a bigger boot.
New Cerato features an all-new, efficient 2.0-litre engine with Continuously Variable Valve Timing (CVVT)
for class-leading power and torque, delivering the pulling power and responsiveness of a 2.2-litre engine
without the fuel consumption of a bigger engine.
Like all new Kia vehicles now sold in Australia, the new Cerato will be covered by Kia's 5-year/unlimited
kilometre warranty for private buyers (5-year/130,000kms for fleet buyers).
Eye-catching styling from a global design specialist? Check. Power and economy from a class-leading engine?
Check. Interior space and comfort that rivals or betters its competitors? Check. Quality, safety and
reliability? Check. Outstanding value and warranty? Check.
All-new Cerato delivers on the promise - it's the right car for the moment.
DESIGN
"Design gives a soul to the product and reaches the hearts of the people," according to Peter Schreyer, Global
Design Officer at Kia Motors Corporation.
"The future of Kia products lies in balance, clarity and purpose. Kia is a brand underpinned by quality and
reliability. Now on top of that comes this emotional element of distinctive design."
Peter Schreyer's comments are reflected in the new 'Schreyer line' that is becoming the distinctive new face
of Kia.
His use of the 'Schreyer line' grille design in the all-new Kia Cerato breaks away from the more traditional
Kia image, providing a design that raises the bar in the sometimes conservative 'small' segment.
By embodying his "simplicity of the straight line", Schreyer has delivered sharp exterior styling that
conveys a powerful and aggressive image and implies 'speed'.
The new Cerato has a high boot line, with a subtle in-built lip spoiler to give the rear a very aerodynamic
look that is matched by Cerato's low drag coefficient of 0.29. The wedge-like character lines give Cerato a
streamlined, aggressive and exciting profile, despite being able to comfortably accommodate five people in the
cabin and up to 415 litres of luggage in the boot.
Since joining Kia Motors in 2006, Peter Schreyer has injected new energy into Kia's global design efforts,
culminating in the development of new family look seen in Cerato and soon to be mirrored in other new Kia models.
Late last year, Kia Motors Corporation received the 2008 President's Award for Design, presented at the 10th
annual Korea Design Awards in recognition of the company's design-centred management strategy implemented in multiple
stages since 2005.
The prestigious award was presented by the President of the Republic of Korea, Mr. Myung-Bak Lee, and recognises
Kia's leadership in design.
Since 2006, Kia has designed and produced a series of new and refreshed models, and concepts, focused around what
Schreyer calls a "linear and minimalist" design language.
The backbone of this drive has been the operation of a global design network which has included the opening of
dedicated Kia design centres in North America and Germany.
Euisun Chung, President of Kia Motors, said at the award presentation, "We will use the Korea Design Award as a
stepping stone to continue to infuse our creative design spirit throughout many aspects of Kia's business, not
just limiting our efforts to product design."
POWERTRAIN
New Cerato has the most powerful naturally aspirated engine in its class - Kia's new Theta II engine - the first
application of this engine in the small segment in Australia.
The new twin-cam, four-cylinder 2.0-litre Theta II petrol engine, with Continuously Variable Valve Timing (CVVT),
revs smoothly to produce 115 kW of power @ 6,200 rpm and 194 Nm of torque @ 4,300 rpm to take the mantle of
class-leader in the power stakes.
The class-leading, Euro IV-compliant Theta II engine is matched to a slick-shifting, short-throw five-speed manual
for optimum driver control as standard, or can be optioned with Kia's gated, four-speed automatic gearbox for a
smooth and relaxed drive with the choice of Sportsmatic manual-shift capability.
New Cerato's 2.0-litre engine is a state-of-the-art, lightweight four-cylinder 16-valve unit that is powerful,
quiet and economical. Weight-saving measures include an aluminium cylinder block and head with a ladder frame.
Continuously Variable Valve Timing optimises low and medium-speed torque as well as aiding high-speed performance
and economy.
The valve gear is chain-driven to minimise maintenance requirements and cut noise, while auxiliary systems are
powered by a single serpentine belt.
Matched to the four-speed automatic gearbox, the new 2.0-litre Theta II engine can power the new Cerato from 0-100
km/h in 10.5 seconds and on to 190 km/h (0-100 km/h in 9.3 seconds and up to 200 km/h top speed with manual gearbox).
Combined fuel consumption for the new Cerato is 7.8 litres/100 kms (official ADR81/01 combined cycle) with the manual
gearbox and 7.9 litres/100 kms for the automatic gearbox.
The four-speed Sportsmatic automatic uses a new lightweight flat-type torque converter that is smaller than a
conventional unit, with less friction and therefore better fuel efficiency. The gear train has also been designed to be
quieter. For an extra margin of safety, an electronic shift lock prevents reverse being selected from (P) Park or (N)
Neutral without the foot brake being applied.
The gearbox features electronic controls that monitor a variety of parameters to guarantee smooth shifts adapted to
individual driving styles. A high top gear ratio ensures reduced fuel consumption and quieter cruising at high speeds.
Economy and emissions
The 2.0-litre Theta II engine delivers impressive economy in the all-new Cerato, especially given its class-leading
power. With an official combined fuel consumption of 7.8 litres/100 kms, the Cerato with manual transmission is capable of
travelling more than 660 kilometres on a single fill of 91RON regular unleaded fuel in its 52 litre fuel tank.
Even more impressive is the all new Cerato's rating in the Australian Government's Green Vehicle Guide. With a GVG
rating of 4.5 stars, new Cerato is one of the class leaders in the 'small' segment, emitting just 186 grammes per
kilometre of CO2 with the manual gearbox (187 g/km for the four-speed automatic) despite being the most powerful vehicle
in its class.
All new Cerato's fuel efficiency, excellent Green Vehicle rating and outstanding value combine to ensure that driving
the new Cerato doesn't have to break the bank or come at the expense of the environment.
CHASSIS
The all new Kia Cerato is larger than its predecessor in both length and width and will rival all Small segment
competitors in overall size.
Cerato's 4,530 mm length, allied with its 2,650 mm wheelbase and 1,775 mm width, gives the new car an 'athletic'
stance which is matched by its sporty road feel.
The chassis has been tuned to deliver the European feel favoured by many Australians, with excellent steering
response, road holding, ride comfort and braking the aim. The combined result is precise steering and sure-footed
road holding, matched with a composed and supple ride, that offers driving enjoyment without compromising passenger
comfort.
Designed around an all-new platform, the new Cerato uses high-tensile steel to improve rigidity and benefit of
dynamic behaviour and crash safety. The platform's rigidity is enhanced by a hoop structure around the central
pillar area designed to offer better occupant protection, especially in rollover accidents.
At the front, the new Cerato uses a McPherson strut layout with coil springs and gas shock absorbers, employing
sub-frames constructed using hydro-forming techniques to reduce weight. The solid-mounted sub-frames and increased
castor angle enhance handling performance, while L-shaped lower arms enhance collision performance and high-speed
driving stability.
At the rear, a coupled torsion beam axle is used in conjunction with gas shock absorbers, mirroring a number of
European and Japanese competitors. The lightweight rear suspension system enables the new Cerato to have a larger
boot than its competitors and delivers improvements in rear crash performance.
The Cerato S rides on 15-inch steel rims with wheel covers and 195/65 R15 tyres, while the Cerato SLi rides on
10-spoke, 17-inch alloy wheels shod with 215/45 R17 tyres. Both models are equipped with a full-size spare wheel,
including an alloy for the SLi.
All-new Cerato has larger diameter front and rear disc brakes than its predecessor - 280 mm front and 262 mm
rear - for improved braking performance.
The hydraulic rack and pinion steering system, with both tilt and telescope functions, has 2.89 turns lock to
lock in the Cerato S (15-inch rims) for a 10.32 metre diameter turning circle. Using 17-inch rims, the Cerato SLi
has 2.77 turns lock to lock and a 10.78 metre turning circle.
New Cerato's power steering makes parking a breeze and enhances inner-city manoeuvrability, as well as allowing
quick and precise response and good feedback on country roads without being overly-sensitive for freeway driving.
Kia engineers have undertaken extensive design and testing programmes, particularly in reinforcing key structural
elements and enhancing body sealing, to deliver reduced levels of noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) that match
many of new Cerato's class-leading competitors.
Strategic use of thicker gauge steel in key locations has provided a stiffer body shell without adding unnecessary
weight.
New Cerato has significantly improved aerodynamic performance and betters a number of its competitors with a 0.29
coefficient of drag and a 0.16 coefficient of lift.
The all-new Cerato has a braked towing capacity of 1,200 kg.
SAFETY
The new Cerato range continues Kia's commitment to offering safety and value across the whole Kia range.
The Cerato range is equipped as standard with dual SRS front airbags; side front SRS airbags and full-length
curtain SRS airbags; active head restraints and seatbelt pre-tensioners for front seats; and 4-wheel disc brakes with
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), EBD (Electronic Brake force Distribution) and Brake Assist.
The range-topping Cerato SLi comes standard with ESP (Electronic Stability Programme) and TCS (Traction Control
System), which is also available as a low cost option pack for the Cerato S.
ABS brakes allow drivers to maintain steering response and directional control even when braking heavily,
minimising the risk of an accident. Electronic brake force distribution adjusts the force applied to individual
axles.
Active safety
Kia is becoming recognised worldwide for its continuing commitment to making its vehicles more able to avoid
accidents, as well as making its cars a safer place to be should they become involved in accidents.
ESP and TCS prevent skids by monitoring the car's course compared to that intended by the driver, and applying the
brakes or slowing the engine if necessary.
Passive safety
Should an accident be unavoidable, occupants are protected by a remarkably stiff and strong body and a full
package of SRS airbags. Dual SRS front airbags, side front SRS airbags and full-length SRS curtain airbags are fitted
as standard on every new Cerato model. Active head restraints maximise neck protection in the event of a collision.
Every new Cerato has a three-point safety belt for all five seating positions, ensuring each occupant has the
opportunity to be safely restrained in the event of an accident.
Complementing Cerato's array of safety equipment, thicker gauge steel has been strategically used in key locations
to provide a stiffer body shell without adding unnecessary weight, to protect occupants in the event of an accident
while at the same time minimising unnecessary fuel usage.
EXTERIOR
All-new Cerato is bold, aggressive and dynamic with a wedge-like side profile that exudes a sense of speed.
The 'Schreyer line' corporate face with its sweep of headlamps and distinctive radiator grille is accentuated by a
strong front bumper and bonnet line that gives the car a very athletic stance.
The rear end is just as dynamic with a lip spoiler effect that provides an aerodynamic feel.
The new car is 30 mm longer, 40 mm wider and 10 mm lower than its predecessor and features a wheelbase extended by
40 mm to comfortably accommodate five adults. The front track is increased by 62 mm and the rear track by 79 mm,
pushing the wheels towards the vehicles outer extremities for a bolder stance and improved
road holding.
The low drag co-efficient of 0.29 and low lift coefficient of 0.16 is in part due to measures that channel air
cleanly around the Cerato's body. These measures include an engine undertray, low bumper lip, flattened wheel covers
and front and rear wheel deflectors. In addition, clean airflow over, around and underneath the car has been achieved
by careful shaping of the nose, door mirrors, A-pillars and upper door frames and tighter panel fit.
All Cerato models feature body coloured bumpers and door mirrors. Cerato S has body coloured door handles, while
the SLi has chrome door handles, chrome radiator grille and rear garnish.
Both models also feature electric heated outside door mirrors, convex door mirrors and side repeater lamps on door
mirrors, while the SLI is also fitted with front fog lights.
INTERIOR
Catering to the diverse needs of different buyers, the all-new Cerato features a distinctive and stylish high-tech
interior.
The all-new Kia Cerato uses its increased overall length, wheelbase and width to deliver a roomy, safe, quiet and
generously-equipped place for up to five occupants.
Its best-in-class front legroom is unrivalled for driver and passenger comfort, while the rear compartment offers
space and comfort that rivals some 'Medium' segment entrants, with class leading shoulder room and excellent rear
seat access being the standout features.
Access to both front and rear seats is made easier by wider door openings that allow passengers to easily
'slide out', very useful in heavy traffic environments or when it is raining.
With five seats occupied, the boot provides 415 litres of luggage space that is easily accessible.
Inside the cabin, the driver sits in front of a new two-tier dashboard with distinctive details such as a
three-cylinder 'Super Vision' cluster in Cerato SLi which includes the in-dash display four ultrasonic rear parking
sensors and a six-function trip computer.
Both Cerato S and SLi have a distinctive 3-spoke steering wheel, with the latter model fitted with cruise control
and remote audio controls (both optional on Cerato S).
Cerato SLi also features alloy pedals, leather-wrapped steering wheel and gearshift knob for a sportier touch.
The centre fascia contains audio, heating and ventilation controls in a simple, easy-to-read layout.
Both models are fitted with speed sensing door locks that automatically lock once the vehicle has reached a speed
of 40 km/h.
They also feature a driver's seat height adjuster, 60:40 fold flat rear seat, tilt and telescope adjustable
steering column and rear centre armrest.
The practical nature of the new Cerato is enhanced by the numerous storage areas around the cabin, including
cup/drink bottle holders, large door pockets in all four doors, a useful centre console and glove box, lower
dashboard oddment tray for the driver, and a ceiling-mounted sunglass holder.
Cerato S occupants enjoy standard manual air conditioning while occupants of the higher-spec Cerato SLi have full
climate control at their fingertips.
With the interior set at just the right temperature, it's time to sit back and enjoy new Cerato's comprehensive
audio package, featuring six speakers, MP3 compatible CD player with Power Bass, an auxiliary input for external
audio devices, a USB audio input with iPod® compatibility, speed dependent volume control and steering wheel remote
audio controls (on Cerato SLi).
Levels of noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) in the cabin of the new Cerato have received special attention.
Sound-proofing materials in hollow sections of the body shell; the use of front and rear sub-frames for mounting
the suspension; a double-curved surface floor panel; a thick under-bonnet sound-absorbing pad; insulation pads on
the cabin floor, in the door cavities and on the bulkhead between the engine bay and passenger cell; triple layer
rubber seals and weather strips around the doors and windows; and aerodynamically refined door mirror shrouds and
mountings have all helped significantly reduce NVH levels.
EQUIPMENT
The name 'Kia' has become synonymous with a reputation for strong levels of equipment matched with great value,
and the all-new Cerato is no exception. The Cerato range offers a comprehensive package of standard specification
in all models, as well as traditionally low running costs and a comprehensive 5-year/unlimited kilometres warranty
package for private users (5-years/130,000kms for business and commercial users).
Kia Cerato S
- 2.0-litre CVVT engine (115 kW)
- 5-speed manual gearbox
- Optional 4-speed Sportsmatic automatic gearbox
- Manual air-conditioning
- 15" steel wheels with 195/65 R15 tyres
- Power, heated door mirrors
- Power windows (front & rear)
- Dual SRS front airbags
- Front side SRS airbags
- Curtain (full-length) SRS airbags
- Active front head restraints
- Keyless remote central locking
- 4-wheel disc brakes with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), EBD (Electronic Brake force Distribution) and Brake Assist
- MP3 compatible CD player with Power Bass
- Auxiliary input (for external audio device)
- USB audio input with iPod® compatibility
- Repeater lamps on door mirrors
- Speed-sensing auto door locks
- Tricot cloth trim
- Map lamp with sunglass holder
- 5-year/unlimited kilometre warranty (private use)
Kia Cerato S with Option Pack- same as Cerato S, plus:
- Electronic Stability Programme
- Traction Control System
- Remote audio controls (steering wheel-mounted)
- Cruise control
Kia Cerato SLi- same as Cerato S, plus:
- Electronic Stability Programme
- Traction Control System
- Remote audio controls (steering wheel-mounted)
- Cruise control
- 17-inch alloy wheels with 215/45 R17 tyres
- Front fog lamps
- Chrome grille, door handles and rear garnish
- Chrome tipped rear muffler
- Climate control air conditioning
- Leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob
- 'Super Vision' cluster with rear parking assist display
- Four ultrasonic rear parking sensors
- Auto light control system
- Jersey knit trim
- Metallic paint console, upper cover and door trim
- Six-function trip computer
- Exterior temperature display
WARRANTY
The all-new Kia Cerato range comes standard with the confidence of Kia's new 5-year/unlimited kilometre warranty
for privately registered vehicles (5 years/130,000 kilometres for business and commercial vehicles).
The new five-year warranty, better than almost every other new factory warranty available in Australia, reflects
the rapid improvements to the quality and reliability of Kia vehicles in recent years.
The balance of the five-year warranty is fully transferable to a new owner should a new Kia Cerato be sold during
the warranty period, further enhancing that vehicle's value.
In addition to new vehicles, all Kia approved parts and accessories fitted prior to, or at the time of, delivery
of a new Kia Cerato will also be covered by the same warranty applying to that vehicle.
PRICING
The all-new Kia Cerato sedan offers a high level of standard specification and value across every model.
Prices exclude dealer delivery fees and the numerous state and/or territory government charges/duties/fees/taxes.
Model |
Manual |
Automatic |
|
$ 18,990 |
$ 20,990 |
|
$ 19,990 |
$ 21,990 |
|
$ 22,990 |
$ 24,990 |
Premium paint (Mica/Metallic) is available at $300 extra cost.
KIA'S GLOBAL DESIGN CHIEF SPEARHEADS CORPORATE DESIGN VISION
When Peter Schreyer was appointed as Kia Motors' global Chief Design Officer in September 2006, his brief was
to oversee Kia's domestic and international design functions and be responsible for implementing the company's
design vision in line with its 'exciting and enabling' brand values that target a young-at-heart and adventurous
target customer base.
That design vision is now apparent as the 'Schreyer line', a new face for Kia models that delivers a fresh
and bold approach to design that will bring a new 'personality' to Kia vehicles from now on, starting with the
all-new Cerato.
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Schreyer, responsible for designing cars like the Volkswagen New Beetle and the original Audi TT, took the
'reins' to direct Kia's significantly increased emphasis on automobile design and support the ongoing
regeneration of Kia's model range.
At the time of Mr Schreyer's appointment, Euisun Chung, President & CEO of Kia Motors Corporation, said,
"As we continue to develop the Kia brand across all key regional markets, we are required to continually enhance
our range of vehicles through world class, innovative advances in product design."
"Mr Schreyer's appointment underlines our commitment to meeting and exceeding customer expectations by
accurately reflecting modern aesthetics and regional and cultural sensibilities."
"His track record over many years in the automotive sector speaks for itself and we are looking forward to
working with him to lay out a long-term strategy that will centre on moulding a unique and consistent design
lineage for the entire future Kia line-up."
"We are focused on boosting our competitiveness on the world stage by dramatically upgrading the design
element of our vehicle line-up while adding an emotional dimension to the brand," said Mr. Chung.
Schreyer oversees design activities at the company's regional design centres in Frankfurt, Los Angeles and
Tokyo, as well as the company's flagship Namyang Design Centre in Korea.
He has played a significant role in advancing the company's worldwide brand footprint and developing a
distinctive Kia design language which will be evident in each future model.
Schreyer's central task has been to mould the future face of the brand and models from the same clay.
According to Peter Schreyer, "Good design not only transmits clear messages through the products, but also
solidifies the company's brand positioning and overall company image."
With a philosophy that emphasises the simplicity of the straight line, the all-new Kia Cerato marks the first
Australian appearance of a production Kia stamped with Schreyer's new corporate design language.
In July 2007, Peter Schreyer became only the third automotive designer to receive an Honorary Doctorate from
the Royal College of Art (RCA) in the United Kingdom in recognition of his contribution to automotive design.
The RCA said that the award recognised Schreyer's outstanding contribution and the enormous amount of
influence he has on modern car design and on students at the RCA.
According to the RCA's Professor Dale Harrow, "Peter's controlled and intellectual approach to car styling has
redefined the car for the 21st century."
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