Honda Civic vs Kia Cerato: Which Should You Buy in UAE?

A complete comparison of the ⁦Honda Civic⁩ VS ⁦Kia Cerato⁩ — specs, prices, pros and cons, and live used listings across UAE.

⁦Honda Civic⁩ VS ⁦Kia Cerato⁩: the verdict

The Honda Civic emerges as the winner for drivers prioritizing performance, modern features, and a more engaging driving experience, despite its higher price point. However, the Kia Cerato offers unbeatable value and practicality for budget-conscious buyers in the UAE, making it an excellent choice for daily commuting and city life.
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Price Comparison
Starting at124,900 AED66,000 – 72,000 AED
Engine & Power
Engine1,498 – 1,996 cc · 4 cyl1,600 cc · 4 cyl
Horsepower (bhp)158 – 180 hp128 hp
Torque (Nm)187 – 240 Nm154 Nm
Acceleration 0-100 Km/h (sec)7.5 – 9.2 s11 s
Top Speed (Km/h)200 – 210 km/h190 km/h
Fuel Economy (L/100 Km)6.5 – 6.7 L/100km6.7 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity46.9 – 47 L53 L
Gears—6
TransmissionAutomaticAutomatic
Drive TypeFront Wheel DriveFront Wheel Drive
Fuel TypePetrolPetrol
Measurements
L×W×H4.7 m × 1.8 m × 1.4 m4.6 m × 1.8 m × 1.4 m
Wheelbase (meters)2.7 m2.7 m
Curb Weight (kg)1,305 – 1,363 kg1,287 – 1,633 kg
Trunk Capacity (liters)413 – 419 L427 L
Overview
Body StyleSedanSedan
Seating Capacity5 seats5 seats
Doors4 doors4 doors
Features
Key features
12V Socket360-Degree CameraABS (Anti-lock Brake System)Acoustic HoodActive BonnetActive SteeringActive Understeer Control (AUC)Adaptive Brake LightsAirbagsAlloy PedalsAluminum WheelsAmbient LightingAnti theft alarmAnti-theft Wheel BoltsAudio Controls on Steering WheelAuto Dimming MirrorAuto Door LockAutomatic ACAUXBA (Brake Assist)BluetoothBody Colored GrilleBonnet LightBumper Side StepCargo Area LightCargo Area Tie Down AnchorsCD PlayerCenter Arm RestCentral LockingChrome Door HandlesChrome Exhaust PipesChrome Plated Radiator GrilleClimate ControlCollision DetectionCompassCornering assistCruise ControlCruise Control Switch on SteeringCupholdersDaytime Running LightsDifferential LockDoor Mirrors with Side Turn SignalDrive ComputerDual Exhaust TipDynamic Stability ControlEBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)Eco Drive ModeElectric Door MirrorsElectric SunroofElectronic HandbrakeFabric SeatsFire ExtinguisherFirst Aid KitFog Lamp - Front and RearFoldable Rear SeatsFoldable Rear Seats with 60:40 SplitFootwell LightsFront BrakesFront Seat ArmrestGas Shock AbsorberGlove Box CoolingHalogen HeadlampsHDDHDMIHID HeadlightsHigh Mount Stop LampHill AssistImmobilizerIntelligent KeyiPod InterfaceISOFIX Child Seat AnchorsKeyless EntryLane Departure CameraLeather Gear Shift LeverLeather SeatsLeather Steering WheelLED Fog LightsLED HeadlightsLegroomMap Reading LampsMP3MudguardMulti-Information DisplayNavigation SystemNight VisionNumber of SpeakersOBD (On-board Diagnostics)OdometerOff-Road DampersPaddle ShiftersParking SensorsPedestrian airbagPower MirrorsPower OutletsPower SeatsPower SteeringPower TailgatePower WindowsPower Windows - Front and RearPuddle LampPush Button StartRacing Or Bucket SeatsRadioRear AC VentsRear Audio ControlsRear BlindsRear CameraRear CupholdersRear Lcd screensRear Seat PocketsRear SpoilerRear Window DefoggerRemote StartSeat Adjustment - AutomaticSeat Adjustment - ManualSilver TrimSpare WheelSpeed LimiterSpeed Sensitive Power SteeringSpeed Sensitive Windshield WipersSpoilerSteering Tilt AdjustmentTemperature DisplayTiptronic GearsTouchscreenTouchscreen SizeTowing HookTraction ControlTrip ComputerTyre Defect IndicatorTyre Pressure Monitoring DisplayUrethane Steering WheelUSB PortVanity MirrorVariable Cylinder Management (VCM)Vehicle Stability Control (VSC)Voice Operated ControlWelcome LightWheel SizeWheels - AlloyWheels - SteelWinchWind BlockerWireless HeadphonesWood Trim
12V SocketABS (Anti-lock Brake System)Acoustic HoodActive BonnetActive SteeringAdvanced Air Bags System (AABS)AirbagsAluminum WheelsAnti theft alarmAudio Controls on Steering WheelAuto Dimming MirrorAuto HeadlampsAutomatic ACAUXBA (Brake Assist)BluetoothBonnet LightBumper Side StepCargo Area LightCenter Arm RestCentral LockingChrome Door HandlesChrome Exhaust PipesChrome Plated Radiator GrilleCollision DetectionCruise ControlCruise Control Switch on SteeringCupholdersDaytime Running LightsDifferential LockDoor Mirrors with Side Turn SignalDrive ComputerEBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)Eco Drive ModeElectric Door MirrorsElectronic HandbrakeFire ExtinguisherFog Lamp - Front and RearFoldable Rear Seats with 60:40 SplitFootwell LightsFront BrakesGas Shock AbsorberHDMIHID HeadlightsHigh Mount Stop LampHill AssistImmobilizerIntelligent KeyiPod InterfaceISOFIX Child Seat AnchorsKeyless EntryLeather Gear Shift LeverLeather SeatsLeather Steering WheelLED Fog LightsLED TaillightsMap Reading LampsMP3Multi-Information DisplayOBD (On-board Diagnostics)OdometerOff-Road DampersParking SensorsPedestrian airbagPower OutletsPower SteeringPower TailgatePower Windows - Front and RearPush Button StartRadioRear CameraRear CupholdersRear Lcd screensRear Window DefoggerSeat Adjustment - AutomaticSeat Adjustment - ManualSeatbelt pretensionerSpeed LimiterSpeed Sensitive Audio VolumeSpeed Sensitive Power SteeringSpoilerSteering Tilt AdjustmentTemperature DisplayTiptronic GearsTouchscreenTraction ControlTrip ComputerTrip MeterTyre Defect IndicatorTyre Pressure Monitoring DisplayUSB PortVanity MirrorVehicle Stability Control (VSC)Welcome LightWheel SizeWheels - AlloyWinchWireless Headphones

Which one should you buy?

1

Best for Value Seekers

The Kia Cerato is the undisputed champion for those on a budget, offering a much lower starting price of 66,000 AED compared to the Honda Civic's 124,900 AED. It provides reliable transportation without breaking the bank.

2

Best for Driving Performance

For enthusiasts craving power, the Honda Civic takes the lead with up to 180 hp and quicker acceleration of 7.5 seconds, significantly outperforming the Kia Cerato's 128 hp and 11-second acceleration.

3

Best for Practical Daily Use

The Kia Cerato shines in daily practicality, offering a larger 53 L fuel tank and a slightly more spacious 427 L trunk, making it highly suitable for errands and longer intervals between fuel stops.

4

Best for a Sportier Feel

The Honda Civic delivers a more dynamic and refined driving experience, thanks to its more powerful engine options and responsive handling, appealing to those who enjoy a spirited drive.

Pros & cons

Honda Civic

Pros

  • Higher maximum horsepower (up to 180 hp)
  • Quicker acceleration (as low as 7.5 seconds)
  • Higher top speed capability (up to 210 km/h)
  • More robust engine torque (up to 240 Nm)
  • Slightly better minimum fuel economy (6.5 L/100km)

Cons

  • Significantly higher purchase price
  • Smaller fuel tank capacity
  • Slightly less trunk space
  • Slower acceleration in base models (9.2 seconds)

Kia Cerato

Pros

  • Significantly more affordable starting price (from 66,000 AED)
  • Larger fuel tank capacity (53 L)
  • Slightly more generous trunk space (427 L)
  • Excellent value for money proposition

Cons

  • Lower horsepower output (128 hp)
  • Slower acceleration (11 seconds)
  • Lower top speed (190 km/h)
  • Less overall engine torque (154 Nm)

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Honda Civic or Kia Cerato more affordable in the UAE?

The Kia Cerato is significantly more affordable in the UAE, with a starting price range of 66,000 – 72,000 AED. In contrast, the Honda Civic starts at 124,900 AED. If budget is your primary concern, the Cerato offers a much lower entry point into the sedan segment.

Which car offers better performance, the Honda Civic or Kia Cerato?

The Honda Civic clearly outperforms the Kia Cerato. It boasts up to 180 hp and can accelerate from 0-100 km/h in as little as 7.5 seconds, with a top speed of 210 km/h. The Kia Cerato offers 128 hp, an 11-second acceleration, and a top speed of 190 km/h. For a more dynamic driving experience, choose the Civic.

Which has more trunk space, the Honda Civic or Kia Cerato?

The Kia Cerato offers slightly more trunk space with 427 liters. The Honda Civic provides 413 – 419 liters of trunk capacity. While the difference is minor, the Cerato has a slight edge for carrying luggage or groceries.

What are the key differences between the Honda Civic and Kia Cerato?

The primary differences lie in price and performance. The Civic is considerably more expensive but offers superior power (up to 180 hp) and quicker acceleration (7.5s). The Cerato is much more affordable (from 66,000 AED) and provides a larger fuel tank (53L) and slightly more trunk space (427L), making it a strong value proposition for practical daily driving.

Which car is more fuel-efficient, the Honda Civic or Kia Cerato?

Both cars offer comparable fuel efficiency. The Honda Civic's fuel economy ranges from 6.5 – 6.7 L/100km, while the Kia Cerato is rated at 6.7 L/100km. The Civic has a slight edge in its most efficient trim, but both are economical choices for daily driving.