Owner Review: An underrated car for daily use - My 2017 Kia Cerato K3 1.6 SX

Reason why I bought this car

I always had a wrong mindset about Korean cars, but that is all in the past now. The new generation Korean cars are now handsome, reliable and well-equipped (after Peter Schreyer was recruited in 2016). I need to travel frequently for my job so I wanted a brand new car that was reliable with sufficient warranty and good fuel efficiency. Another thing that attracted me to this car was the spirited driving experience during the test drive.

Car selection process

• I had a budget of: RM 100~120k
• Models that I have considered include: Mazda 3, Honda Civic.

The reason why I choose this car

Most value for money C segment car. I bought it for around 90k after discount, which was less than my budget. I like the European look and tiger nose grille. The car is fitted with a smooth 6-speed automatic transmission. Despite being only 1.6, it doesn't feel underpowered unless fully loaded. It also comes equipped with good safety features; 6 airbags, traction control, ABS etc. The drive mode selection is my favorite feature in this car. The sports mode will change the steering feel, transmission shifts and throttle response for a different driving experience.

User experience

• I have already done 85,000 km
• My average fuel consumption is 8 L/100km

I have owned the car for 4 years now. It has not given me any issue except the usual wear & tear (brake pads, front absorber). It has a modest 130 hp from the factory and I did a subtle stage 1 mod which helped add more hp. The 6 speed AT is more responsive than a CVT transmission. The NVH is good but the handling could be improved. I have changed to wider tyres and installed sport springs to stiffen the ride. I have also installed stage 1 safety bars to reduce body roll. This car is quite sturdy and more grounded at high speed. Driving through corners can be quite fun. Despite these mods, it is still a practical daily driving car.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Design & Looks
• 6 speed AT with drive mode
• Value for Money
• Safety Features
• NVH
• Packed with Features (cruise control, auto seat, memory seat, ventilated glove box etc)

Cons

• Torsion Beam (multilink would have been better)
• After sales & service centre (no longer naza, now is - Bermaz and I hope their service will improve)
• Resale value

Ratings

Total Score: 4 Performance: 4 Quality & Features: 5 Space: 5 Ride Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Price & Cost: 5

Summary

If I look past the lack of power, it is still a lot of car for the money paid. It is an underrated good daily use car. According to JD Power's 2021 dependability study, Kia is the third most reliable brand after Lexus and Porsche. I have to agree as I don't face any issues with my K3, except for one time the petrol lid couldn't open and I needed the service center to readjust the cable tension. The wear & tear parts are slightly more expensive than Japanese cars. Unfortunately, in Malaysia it is not a highly regarded brand. Overall, I am happy with my car.

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