Styling & Aerodynamics

Attractive, sleek appearance for low drag

Higher, wider and shorter than the Kia Shuma model they replace, the Cerato has a longer wheelbase (up by 50 mm) and wider track (up by 25 mm) which push the wheels out towards each corner for a supple ride, good stability, enhanced, agile handling and a much more spacious cabin.

Although the Cerato´s dimensions have been carefully tailored to fit neatly into the C-Segment, its distinctive face will ensure that the newcomer stands out from its competitors. The large front grille, with its additional side flanking air ducts, large dual headlamps, and deep front bumper with its lower air-intake, all have a strongly sculptural quality that implies power, strength and durability.

The front grille features a horizontal chromed upper slat, mounted on the leading edge of the bonnet, that imparts a look of elegance while its generous dimensions promote efficient cooling of the engine compartment. The headlamps incorporate multi-focus reflectors and clear-type lenses for an up-market look which elevates the external appearance. The twin front fog lamps draw the viewer´s eyes down the deep bumper, which also creates a road-hugging stance.

Seen from the side, the Ceratos look sleek and eager to leap forward. The steeply raked windscreen, long roofline (hatchback), deep sloping C-Pillar and short boot lid (sedan), give both cars a sporty image. A distinctive character line sweeps from the bottom of the glass house around the front wheel arch and down into the front bumper - adding to the impression that the wheels are bulging out from the car to grip the road more effectively.

The Cerato´s long wheelbase, short overhangs, and large 15 or 16 inch diameter wheels, give the car plenty of attitude and presence - even from a distance. Sporty curves and angles in the body silhouette and windows blend with clearly defined character lines to convey a sense of dynamic tension. A deep windscreen, together with the deep side windows, creates a bright, airy feel to the cabin and ensures excellent all-round visibility for the driver.

Body coloured finish is applied to the door mirror housings, the door handles and the side sill mouldings, which further support the sporty dynamic look.

On both the hatchback and sedan, extra large rear lamp clusters reach to the extreme edges of the body, accentuating the sculptural qualities. With its longer roofline and more vertical C-Pillars, the hatchback has a more rounded appearance that hints at its more practical interior and compact easy-to-park city-friendly nature.

The sedan´s trunk lid features a subtle arched top which incorporates a discreet aerodynamic lip to reduce drag. A body-coloured garnish above the license plate location accentuates Cerato´s neat, upscale exterior styling. For customers wanting to raise the sporty image of their Cerato, a body-coloured, trunk-top spoiler with high-level brake light is available as an option.

Aerodynamically, both the Ceratos are highly efficient. As well as the overall proportions - deep front bumper and steeply raked front windscreen - close attention to detailing paid dividends. The shaping of the entire nose, door mirrors, A-Pillars and upper door frames, plus tight panel fit, have resulted in a drag coefficient of Cd 0.32 (sedan) and 0.33 (hatchback).