The Kia Cerato has long been a go-to option for Australian sedan buyers seeking solid reliability, modern styling, and great value. In 2025, Kia returns with an all-new iteration of its popular small sedan — refreshed inside and out. But in a market shifting toward SUVs and electrification, does the Cerato still make sense? We took the 2025 Cerato for a comprehensive test to find out.
🔧 What's New in the 2025 Kia Cerato?
The 2025 Kia Cerato doesn’t reinvent the formula — and that’s a good thing for loyal fans. Instead, Kia has focused on refining what made the previous Cerato models popular:
- Sleeker exterior design inspired by the Kia K5/Optima
- Updated infotainment with a larger touchscreen
- Improved safety tech across all variants
- Refined petrol engine options with better fuel economy
- More spacious and tech-enhanced cabin
Let’s dive into each of these areas in detail.
🚘 Exterior Design – Bolder and More Upscale
The Cerato has always been a stylish sedan, but the 2025 model adds some premium design elements that make it look more upmarket than ever before.
- Front fascia: Sharper LED headlights, new grille pattern, and sportier bumper shapes give the front end a confident look.
- Side profile: Clean lines, updated alloy wheel designs (ranging from 16–18 inches), and strong shoulder contours offer a more athletic vibe.
- Rear end: Slimmer taillights, a refined boot lip, and improved rear bumper make it resemble more expensive sedans.
- Colour options: The 2025 range includes new metallics like Deep Ocean Blue and Graphite Grey, alongside classics like Snow White Pearl and Aurora Black.
Though it's still a compact sedan, the Cerato now exudes more road presence, aligning with Kia’s overall design evolution seen in models like the Sportage and EV6.
🛋️ Interior Comfort & Space – Big Car Feel in a Compact Package
Step inside the 2025 Kia Cerato, and you’ll notice immediate changes in both layout and materials.
Highlights:
- New dual 10.25-inch screens (digital cluster + infotainment) on GT and Sport+ variants
- Improved cabin plastics and soft-touch surfaces
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto standard on most variants
- Upgraded seating materials, with faux leather available on mid-trim models and leather-appointed seats on the GT
- Generous legroom for both front and rear passengers
Despite being a small sedan, the Cerato is surprisingly roomy inside. Adults can sit comfortably in the rear, and the boot offers 502 litres of cargo space — competitive for the segment.
Verdict:
The Cerato continues to punch above its class in terms of interior quality and practicality. It’s perfect for urban families, young professionals, or even retirees seeking comfort without a bulky SUV.
⚙️ Engine Options and Driving Dynamics
Engine Lineup for Australia:
| Variant | Engine | Power (kW) | Torque (Nm) | Transmission |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| S & Sport | 2.0L MPI petrol | 112 kW | 192 Nm | 6-speed auto |
| Sport+ & GT | 1.6L turbocharged petrol (T-GDI) | 150 kW | 265 Nm | 7-speed DCT |
Driving Impressions
✅ Everyday Driving (S & Sport):
The 2.0L MPI engine is adequate for daily commuting. It’s smooth, reliable, and quiet. The 6-speed auto is well-matched and predictable, though not sporty.
✅ Performance (GT):
The GT variant is where the Cerato truly shines. The 1.6L turbo engine delivers punchy acceleration and more engaging performance. Kia's tuning ensures that it's still comfortable for long drives.
Ride & Handling
- Suspension is tuned for Aussie roads, striking a balance between comfort and agility
- Steering is responsive and light in city driving, heavier at highway speeds
- Road and wind noise are minimal, even on coarse bitumen
⛽ Fuel Economy – Efficient and Budget-Friendly
In a cost-conscious market, the Cerato’s fuel consumption is a major win:
| Variant | Combined Fuel Use (Claimed) |
|---|---|
| 2.0L MPI | 7.4L/100km |
| 1.6L Turbo | 6.8L/100km |
Real-world driving on mixed roads during our test gave us ~7.1L/100km in the 2.0L and 7.0L/100km in the turbo GT — impressive figures for a petrol sedan in 2025.
🛡️ Safety & Driver Assistance – Well Equipped at Every Level
All 2025 Cerato models come equipped with a solid suite of safety tech. Kia has improved this area to compete with rivals like the Toyota Corolla and Mazda3.
Standard Safety Features:
- Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) with pedestrian/cyclist detection
- Lane Keep Assist + Lane Following Assist
- Blind Spot Collision Avoidance
- Rear Cross Traffic Alert
- Rear parking sensors & camera
Optional/GT-only Features:
- Adaptive cruise control
- Highway Driving Assist (semi-autonomous)
- Front parking sensors
- Smart Parking Assist
The Cerato also scored a 5-star ANCAP safety rating (updated in 2025 under the latest criteria).
📱 Tech & Infotainment – A Step Ahead in Its Class
The new Cerato takes a big leap forward in tech:
- 10.25-inch infotainment display standard on Sport+
- Wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto across the range
- Upgraded 8-speaker JBL audio system on GT variant
- Digital instrument cluster on higher trims
- USB-C ports and rear seat charging
It feels more premium than its price tag would suggest, rivaling more expensive sedans in tech capability.
🪙 Pricing & Value – Still One of the Best Bargains
Kia has kept Cerato pricing competitive, even with all the upgrades:
| Variant | Drive-Away Price (Est. AUD) |
|---|---|
| S | From $26,990 |
| Sport | From $28,990 |
| Sport+ | From $31,490 |
| GT | From $36,990 |
Every variant includes Kia’s 7-year unlimited km warranty, roadside assist, and capped-price servicing — adding to its long-term value.
🔄 How Does It Compare to Rivals?
| Model | Price From | Power Output | Fuel Economy | Safety | Infotainment |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kia Cerato | $26,990 | 112–150 kW | 6.8–7.4 L/100km | ★★★★★ | 10.25" + wireless CP |
| Toyota Corolla | $29,270 | 103–126 kW | 4.2–6.0 L/100km | ★★★★★ | 8" (wired CarPlay) |
| Hyundai i30 Sedan | $29,000 | 110–150 kW | 6.1–7.0 L/100km | ★★★★★ | 10.25" + wired CP |
| Mazda3 Sedan | $30,000+ | 114–138 kW | 6.3–6.6 L/100km | ★★★★★ | 8.8" + wired CP |
The Cerato holds its own — especially considering you get more features for less money compared to rivals.
🛠️ Maintenance & Running Costs
Kia offers:
- 7-year capped-price servicing
- Service intervals: 12 months or 15,000km
- Total servicing cost (7 years): ~$3,100 AUD
Insurance premiums are reasonable, with the S model attracting quotes from $950/year for comprehensive cover.
🧾 Verdict – Is the 2025 Kia Cerato Still a Great Value?
Absolutely. The 2025 Kia Cerato delivers more tech, better safety, and refined styling while maintaining its reputation for affordability and reliability. It’s one of the few sedans left that feels relevant and rewarding in a market dominated by SUVs.
✅ Who Should Buy the Cerato 2025?
- Commuters looking for value and comfort
- First-time buyers after a low-cost, stylish sedan
- Families wanting a second car that’s efficient and easy to maintain
- Drivers who don’t need an SUV but still want space and features
🏁 Final Scorecard
| Category | Score (/10) |
|---|---|
| Exterior Styling | 9 |
| Interior Comfort | 8.5 |
| Tech & Infotainment | 9 |
| Driving Dynamics | 7.5 |
| Safety Features | 9 |
| Fuel Efficiency | 8 |
| Value for Money | 9.5 |
💬 Closing Thoughts
In a world where sedans are being outshined by SUVs, the 2025 Kia Cerato is proof that small cars can still offer excellent value, comfort, and fun. If you’re not ready to jump on the SUV bandwagon or just want something efficient and well-equipped for less than $30K, the Cerato deserves a top spot on your shortlist.
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