Kia Cerato
So the Citi Golf is finally dead, its replacement the odd challenger of the old Polo. Odd in that it seems a close relative of new Polo…
Still it establishes a benchmark for the bottom end of the market. A good, reasonably safe entry level unit that isn't made from moulded cardboard. Further, it establishes an entry level price point, doesn't it?
Entry level for something decent hits the 100k mark, who would have believed that a few years back? Did I really just write nostalgically? Am I showing my age? Fond memories of Golf 1 all new and shiny…. Oh no. I am becoming one of those, soon I will need to rebuild some usual piece of leaky British rust-bucket engineering. Aargh.
So what is entry level for a sedan? If you are prepared to enjoy (endure?- ed) uncomfortable seats, dubious build quality and sewing machines in the place of engines, the options seem vast. But are there bargain options for a proper 4 door sedan? One that feels good to get into, drives ok and has acceptable levels of comfort and reasonable NVH (noise vibration and harshness) levels.
Something that can enjoy some ownership pride really. Something that doesn't just suck or was first built around the time of the rindepest. A recent test of the Kia Cerato broke the dull motoring journalists tedium of continuous exotic junkets and new exotic sportscars mysteriously arriving in our driveways.
Did I mention we get overpaid too? Sigh, don't we wish. Around 200k for the Cerato 2.0 with Auto transmission, gets you rear park distance control, leather, full climate control, a decent interior, keyless go, reasonable fuel consumption, the ability to pass trucks on the freeway.
And good luggage space. Most importantly decent value for money.
Integrated i-pod connectivity should be de-riguer, it is with Kia now. I wonder when others will follow? Auto headlight on and off is a highlight in for bracket too. The innovative lighting, displays and layout are pleasant.
The car leaves you with a quality feeling. It just feels well built. It gives you that solid, reliable feeling few cars in this category exude. If you change cars regularly don't buy this, resale values may reduce the bargain. But if you intend to keep it, things look up.
A 4 year, 90 000 km service plan coupled to a 5 year 100 000 km warranty make this a viable keeper. It in fact mitigates itself into the highly recommended category at this price point. So comfort, a little luxury, some modern nice touches, all in all a value driven proposition.
If you want a decently built sedan, without having to check too many options boxes, and you change cars infrequently, lay your money down on this one.
