The K4 replaces the Cerato and ushers in some significant changes. It has been completely redesigned inside and out, there is new advanced driver tech, a focus on refinement and a lot more standard gear.
As a result, prices have increased across the range. The model grades are largely the same as they were with Cerato and start with the base S, then Sport, Sport+ and GT-Line. The latter is where the changes lie.
The Cerato range was topped by a GT with a potent 1.6-litre four-cylinder turbo. The K4 swaps that out for a GT-Line with a detuned version of the same powertrain. It lacks the performance focus of the full-fat GT, hence the GT-Line badge for the new model.
Pricing kicks off at $30,590, before on-road costs, for the entry-level S, which is $3500 more than the equivalent Cerato S.
You then step up into the Sport for $35,190 (+$6030), Sport+ $37,590 (+$5380) and the GT-Line at $42,990 (+$6130).
This new pricing is in line with key rivals like the Toyota Corolla, Mazda3 and the mechanically related Hyundai i30 Sedan, although the Corolla has a higher starting price.
There’s a lot of standard safety gear offered but more on that in the ‘Safety’ section.
All grades except the S feature twin 12.3-inch digital screens for multimedia and instrumentation, with the base S making do with a 4.0-inch driver’s display.
However, you can add the 'Safety Pack' to the K4 S for $2100 and that adds a 12.3-inch instrument display, a 5.0-inch air-con display, dual-zone climate control and an expanded auto emergency braking (AEB) system with junction turning and crossing and direct/oncoming lane change detection.
From the S up the K4 comes standard with 16-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, digital radio, a smart key with push button start, power folding and heated exterior mirrors, four USB-C outlets and a six-speaker audio system.
The Sport+ gains heated front seats, a passenger side rear map pocket, illuminated glove box, soft-touch door panels, auto-dimming rear view mirror, rain-sensing wipers, synthetic leather seats and 17-inch alloys.
The GT-Line further adds 18-inch alloys, LED projection headlights, unique synthetic leather two-tone trim, eight-way powered driver’s seat, a sunroof, a three-spoke (two-tone, heated) steering wheel, paddle shifters, ambient lighting, alloy sports pedals, a Harman Kardon eight-speaker audio system, ventilated front seats and a wireless charging pad.
The standard features list is solid without breaking new ground and some items like the wireless charging pad could be offered in lower grades.