NO ROCKET BUT IT HAS A PLUS SIDE

alert and lane keep assist, which will guide the car back between the lines if the driver loses concentration.

COMFORT

You get big-car real estate on a small platform. Supportive seats and well-designed dash provide an environment that’s comfortable and easy to navigate. The leather trim adds a touch of class, while the touchscreen sits high on the dash for better vision. Smartphone mirroring apps also make life easier. The Cerato’s firmish ride can mean you’ll feel the bumps and corrugations on rougher surfaces — but overall it is a comfortable set-up for eating up the miles.

DRIVING

The Sport Plus nomenclature is somewhat of a misnomer. Under the bonnet is the same engine found in the base model. It’s a competent fourcylinder that does the job without fuss, but it’s no rocket ship. The top-spec GT gets more firepower courtesy of a turbocharged engine, as well as a sportier tune for the suspension, so that’s the one for the revheads. The Cerato is assured through the bends, with accurate steering and suspension tuned specially for local roads.

ALTERNATIVES

This price applies to demonstrators, with

1.4-litre turbo (110kW/240Nm) and six-speed auto. Leather trim, eight-inch touchscreen and five-year unlimited kilometre warranty. Misses out on autonomous emergency braking but has forward collision alert.

Four-cylinder turbo (127kW/220Nm) makes enough for reasonable if not rapid progress. No leather trim but strong inclusions list. New safety equipment added this year brings it up to speed with rivals. Latest deal includes free servicing for two years, plus five-year warranty.

VERDICT

Quality you can afford. The Sport Plus looks and drives better than the sticker indicates.