Next Kia Cerato could go electric

The next generation Kia Cerato due within the next five years could have the option of electric power.

That's the call from the boss of Kia Australia, Damien Meredith, who says Kia remains committed to the small-car class – despite falling sales globally – and believes the next-generation Kia Cerato could have the option of electric power to broaden its appeal.

"The (next-generation) all-new Cerato is coming to Australia, with electrified options currently under consideration," said Kia Australia general manager of product planning, Roland Rivero.

The Kia Cerato – which received a mid-generation facelift before an all-new model arrives in three years or so – is currently third place in the small-car class, behind the Hyundai i30 and the top-selling Toyota Corolla.

Last year, the Kia Cerato was the ninth best-selling car in Australia.

Speaking to the media at the facelifted 2021 Kia Cerato launch, Kia Australia boss Damien Meredith said he sees at least another "five years of reasonable volume" left in the small-car class in Australia.

"I expect the market to hold up (at least five years), but there will come a point where may not be worth it," said Meredith.

He went on to acknowledge that Kia is "one of few" brands who offer three different small passenger cars, even though the segment is in decline.

But the company says it is not ready to give up on the small-car segment just yet, as the Kia Cerato is one of the top sellers.

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