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ALL-NEW CERATO TWINS TO BOOST KIA RANGEThursday 24 June 2004
Modern, advanced technology, family car with European appeal
Introduction of two common-rail diesel engines and a new 2.0-litre CVVT petrol engine
The all-new Kia Cerato hatchback and saloon, which go on sale across Europe this summer, are hugely significant model introductions for the ambitious Korean company. Kia is currently Europe’s fastest-growing automotive brand and the Cerato is a highly competitive entry into the popular and all-important C-segment (Focus/Astra size) of the European market.
For the first time in this segment, Kia will be offering customers a choice of petrol and diesel engines in the Cerato. The 1.5-litre and 2.0-litre diesel engines feature common-rail technology for the optimum balance between performance, economy and clean emissions. Cerato will be Kia’s first diesel-powered passenger car, as previously the company has marketed diesel engines only in MPV and SUV models.
Styled to attract modern, image conscious consumers, the Cerato is the latest product intended to move Kia towards its ‘young, sporty and friendly’ brand positioning.
There is a choice of two modern four cylinder petrol engines both with double overhead camshafts and 16-valves. The 1.6 produces 105 ps, while the 2.0 unit features for the first time in a Kia engine, CVVT (continuously variable valve timing), which boosts power at low and medium revs, and generates 143 ps.
The all-new 1.5 CRDi diesel engine, which produces a maximum of 102 ps, will be available from autumn 2004 and will deliver ‘best-in-Class’ performance and fuel economy with 235.4 Nm of torque. The 2.0 CRDi diesel engine is available from launch. It is based on the power unit used in the Kia Carens, and develops 112 ps (82.5 kW) and a massive 245.2 Nm of torque from just 1,800 rpm up to 2,500 rpm.
By judicious weight saving measures and attention to matching engine performance and gearing the Cerato achieves highly competitive performance and fuel economy results. Acceleration times for the Cerato models (0-62 mph) range from 9.0 sec (2.0-litre CVVT) to 13.0 sec (1.6 Auto), and top speeds from 129 mph (2.0-litre CVVT) to 107 mph (1.6 Auto). Combined fuel consumptions range from 58 mpg* (1.5-litre CRDi) to 34 mpg* (2.0-litre CVVT Auto), while CO2 ratings spread from
128 g/km* (1.5-litre CRDi) to 198 g/km (2.0-litre CVVT Auto).
In Europe, every Cerato will come fitted with Bridgestone tyres. The high safety specification includes dual front airbags, front side airbags and full length side curtain airbags; while there are all round disc brakes, ABS with EBD and Brake Assist for maximum stopping power.
The modern European influenced exterior of the Cerato is matched to a spacious and up-to-date interior which will hold five adults. The emphasis on refinement and the use of high quality materials clearly represents the new generation of Kia products. However, Cerato will continue Kia’s winning blend of offering stylish cars with high levels of equipment that offer unbeatable value for money.
The UK line-up is expected to include three specification levels with standard equipment including twin front, side and curtain airbags, air conditioning, remote central locking, ABS with EBD and Brake Assist, JVC audio with CD/MP3 and split/folding rear seats.
*Figures to be confirmed.
The Cerato is a high volume product designed to achieve stronger market penetration globally and particularly to increase the appeal of Kia’s C-segment offerings in Europe. Kia is confident that the Cerato range will attract more than 30,000 European customers annually within two years of its launch.
Designed at Kia facilities in Korea, the USA and Europe, and manufactured in Korea, the new Cerato is the result of more than 40 months intensive work and a total investment cost of approximately €220 million.
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