As promised, Kia has unveiled its next-generation Cerato for 2025, which will switch to the name, Kia K4. It will make its public debut at the New York Auto Show later this week.
The new model takes on a completely different design direction to the outgoing Cerato, showcasing Kia’s ‘Opposites United’ philosophy, which is expected to carry over to other models in the future showroom as well.
Kia describes the look as representing ambition, boldness, energy, and strength. As you can see, the new-look model features a full-width trim piece at the front connecting the headlights, with vertical headlight treatment. The sides go for a thick, slab-like profile with flattened contours, and a stretched C-pillar and D-pillar area.
At the back you’ve got BMW-like taillights that almost meet in the middle, only with vertical sections that drop down like with the headlights. A large, up-swept diffuser section down below appears to give it the departure angle of a serious off-roader. Speaking about the design, Karim Habib, executive vice president and head of Kia Global Design, said:
“Every contour, curve and detail of the K4 has been carefully considered and crafted to adhere to Kia’s design philosophy, Opposites United, bringing together clean faceted surfacing and technological details in a bold, cohesive statement. Every aspect further strengthens the relationship between brand and design.”
No word on specs just yet, but it is expected to come with a similar lineup of powertrains as the outgoing Cerato. For example, the 150kW 1.6-litre turbo from the GT is likely to continue, while the 1.6L hybrid from the recent Hyundai i30 Sedan will probably make its way across as well.
Inside, twin digital screens run across the dash, but it’s great to see Kia has retained some physical button controls for easier use while on the go. Kia says there will be a range of new trim colours available too, including Slate Green and Canyon Brown, with lots of elements designed to focus around the driver.
More details will be unveiled in a few days, along with some details for the Australian market.
