Naza Kia Malaysia Launches the Cerato
KUALA LUMPUR, July 2 – Naza Kia Malaysia today launched the highly-anticipated Cerato, Kia’s second best-selling model globally in 2013 after the Rio.
With a monthly target of 600 units, the Cerato is set to change the landscape of the C-segment of the market as a new benchmark in its class and is positioned for consumers between the ages of 26 and 40 who are seeking a vehicle with superior aesthetics and premium features and uncompromising safety standards.
“The Cerato has been one of the most highly-anticipated model launches in Malaysia and will play a key part in growing Naza Kia Malaysia’s sales volume this year.
“With the Cerato, we will be able to tap into the growing C-segment market,” said Datuk Hafiz Syed Abu Bakar, COO of Naza Kia Malaysia.
In profile, the Cerato features detailed styling with masculine lines that are aerodynamically-sleek and purposeful, with a sense of fluidity that’s strongly coupéwhile its interior features high-quality materials and executive-level comfort.
Kia’s signature ‘Tiger Nose’ radiator grille features a geometrical lattice pattern that sets off the Cerato’s stylish profile along with projection-type lensesand LED Daytime Running Light (DRL) for optimal visibility. Its automatic electric folding mirrors are aerodynamically sculpted with LED side repeaters while at the back, its LED rear combination lamps improves the Cerato’s visibility and brightness. Additionally, the Smart Welcoming Light system presents puddle lamps that automatically sense the Smart Key and lights up the car ground while pocket lights illuminate the door handle.
Inside, the Cerato features a motor-driven power steering (MDPS) with flex steer system that comes in three settings: Comfort, Normal and Sport with audio and hands-free functionality, push start ignition, Bluetooth connectivity, a 4.3” touch screen TFT-LCD with rear view camera display and audio controls as well as AUX and USB connectivity, 10-way power driver seat with memory functionality, dual zone full auto air-conditioning with cluster ionizer, rear air vent, glove box cooling, front and rear parking assist system, an auto defog system that is automatically initiated when the sensors detect misty conditions and 17” alloy rims.
Other premium features available exclusively in the 2.0 variant include a sunroof and a supervision cluster with a 4.2-inch full-colour TFT-LCD as well as an air-ventilated driver’s seat, HID Xenon headlamps with auto levelling device and rear spoilers.
Prospective buyers have the option of two engine choices. Kia’s Gamma 1.6 MPI D-CVVT Engine which produces 130 PS and 157 Nm of torque while Kia’s 2.0 Nu D-CVVT Engine produces 161 PS and 194 Nm of Torque; both variants are mated to a six-speed automatic transmission.
The Cerato boasts of a 0.27 Drag Coefficient to reduce fuel consumption and noise. Fuel consumption on a combined cycle is mooted at 14.7 km per litre with CO2 emissions limited to 160g per km.
The drivability of the Cerato is further enhanced through the improved braking system with a 42.3m brake distance (from 100km/h – 0km/h) and 5.3m turning radius for easy manoeuvrability. The front suspension is fitted with Macpherson Strutsto improve ride quality while the rear suspension is fitted with a coupled torsion beam axle for increased stability.
Safety-wise, the Cerato comes with ESC, Brake Assist Control (BAS), Traction Control System (TCS), Brake Assist System (BAS), six-airbags, passenger airbag switch, frontal collision and side collision sensors, ISOFIX lock-in child seats, safety power windows and sunroof with speed sensing auto door lock and impact sensing auto door unlock.
The Cerato is fitted with a Vehicle Stability Management (VSM) next-generation braking system that operates in tandem with the ESC to safely negotiate asymmetrical driving situations such as when one side of the car runs over a wet surface and loses traction.
The Cerato has achieved five-star ratings in safety for NHTSA safety tests in the United States as well as chosen as the Top Safety Pick 2013 by IIHS.
“For 2013, we are targeting to increase our sales volume by 8% to 13,345units and the Cerato will play a significant part in achieving this target,” said Datuk Hafiz.
As part of Naza Kia Malaysia’s pre-launch activities for the Cerato, the company held the ‘What is Project C’ campaign complete with its own website where one lucky winner would walk away with one unit of 1.6 variant.
The contest, which was held from 20th May 2013 until 13th June 2013, required contestants to solve five clues that were each revealed at different time phases and displayed on the ‘What is Project C’ website.
With a total daily traffic of 61,000, a total of 3,227 entries were received and the top 50 finalists shortlisted had to submit a tagline for the Cerato to win the grand prize.
The winner of the grand finale was presented with the grand prize at the launch of the Cerato.
The Cerato will be available in Clear White, Glittering Metal, Bright Silver, Temptation Red and Golden Beat.
The on-the-road price for the Cerato 1.6 is RM99,888 while the on-the-road price for the Cerato 2.0 is RM118,888.
The Cerato comes with a five-year unlimited mileage warranty.
