Hi, Nazhan.
I'm going to buy a Spectra 2.0 LX, another name of Cerato in North America, and like to share your experience on your Cerato.
The model seems quite controvertial, and there are many negative comments on the model as it flunked AHSA frontal collision test though it has won the Best Economy Car 2005 organized by AJAC in Canada. The styling and interior are Kia's selling poits, or even better than some of the class, but a few questions do worry me.
1. Engine. Is the 1.6L engine noisy especially above 3500 RMP, or supressed hard? Do you think the engine is as powerful as the Japanese cars?
2. Transmission. Bet yous is an automatic. Does it handle smoothly, and
suck lots of engine compared with the manual?
3. Tires. The original Hankook tires are said to be no good preformance-wise as it causes much noise and little grip especially when cornering or on wet road. Is it true or not? Do you have any commnets on changing the tires like Yokohama or Michelin, which are much better performed in these area?
4. Reliability and durability. Perhaps you own your Cerato for one year. Any other problems so far? Is Cycle & Carriage rensponsive and helpful in service and rendering help?
I understand only 2.0L Cerato is not available in Singapore, and Cycle & Carriage is the local agent, which has a good reputation after sales service. Besides that car prices are 3-4 times higher than that in America as you have COE, Import duty, ARF and so on and so forth.
Thanks for contributing your experience on your Cerato.