2013 Kia Cerato Bound For LA

Kia's all-new 2013 Cerato sedan will stop off in Los Angeles this week before making its Australian debut early next year.

The Cerato's unveiling at the LA Auto Show will mark its first appearance outside of South Korea, where it is sold as the K3. In the US, it will continue as the Kia Forte. 

An Australian debut for the new Cerato is set for the first quarter of 2013, with five-door and coupe versions expected to follow later in the year. 

Kia Australia is understood to have a pre-production 2013 Cerato already undergoing testing around the country, as part of the local operation's intensive suspension and handling program.

The new Cerato is a bigger car than its predecessor, measuring 30mm longer at 4560mm and riding on a 51mm longer 2700mm wheelbase.

Ensuring greater legroom in the cabin, the stretched wheelbase is 50mm longer than the new Hyundai i30 hatch, and just 50mm short of the coming new Rondo people mover.

The 2013 model is 5mm wider at 1780mm, and 25mm lower, lending the sedan a more sporting look.