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 preferred choice for drivers prioritizing performance, modern features, and a more refined driving experience in the UAE. Its superior power and acceleration offer a more engaging ride. However, the Kia Cerato presents an undeniable value proposition, making it the clear winner for budget-conscious buyers seeking reliable and practical daily transport at nearly half the price.
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Price Comparison
Starting at126,900 AED61,250 – 78,200 AED
Engine & Power
Engine1,498 – 1,996 cc · 4 cyl1,600 – 2,000 cc · 4 cyl
Horsepower (bhp)158 – 180 hp128 – 152 hp
Torque (Nm)187 – 240 Nm154 – 192 Nm
Acceleration 0-100 Km/h (sec)6.0 – 9 s10.5 – 11 s
Top Speed (Km/h)200 – 210 km/h190 – 210 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 kg1,295 – 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 Performance Enthusiasts

The Honda Civic, with its powerful 180 hp engine and quick 6.0-second acceleration, delivers a far more dynamic and exhilarating driving experience, perfect for those who enjoy spirited driving.

2

Best for Budget-Conscious Buyers

The Kia Cerato is the undisputed winner for value, starting at just 61,250 AED. It offers a practical and feature-rich package without breaking the bank, providing excellent affordability in the sedan segment.

3

Best for Longer Journeys

The Kia Cerato offers a larger 53-liter fuel tank, providing a greater range between fill-ups compared to the Honda Civic's 47-liter tank, making it slightly more convenient for extended trips.

4

Best for Everyday Utility

With a trunk capacity of 427 liters, the Kia Cerato provides marginally more cargo space than the Honda Civic's 419 liters. This extra room can be beneficial for families or those needing to carry more luggage.

Pros & cons

Honda Civic

Pros

  • Higher maximum horsepower (180 hp)
  • Significantly faster acceleration (as low as 6.0 seconds)
  • More modern and premium interior design
  • Higher torque output (up to 240 Nm)

Cons

  • Significantly higher purchase price
  • Smaller fuel tank capacity
  • Slightly less trunk space

Kia Cerato

Pros

  • Much lower starting price (from 61,250 AED)
  • Larger fuel tank capacity (53 liters)
  • Slightly more trunk space (427 liters)
  • Competitive fuel economy (6.7 L/100km)

Cons

  • Lower maximum horsepower
  • Slower acceleration performance
  • Less premium feel and interior materials

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Honda Civic or Kia Cerato better value for money in the UAE?

The Kia Cerato offers significantly better value for money in the UAE, with a starting price of 61,250 AED compared to the Honda Civic's 126,900 AED. For buyers prioritizing affordability and practicality, the Cerato provides a comprehensive package at a much lower cost. If budget is your primary concern, the Cerato is the clear choice.

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

The Honda Civic clearly offers superior performance. It boasts up to 180 hp and can accelerate from 0-100 km/h in as little as 6.0 seconds, outperforming the Kia Cerato's 152 hp and 10.5-second acceleration. For a more dynamic and powerful driving experience, the Civic is the better option.

Which sedan has more trunk space, the Civic or the Cerato?

The Kia Cerato offers slightly more trunk space with 427 liters, compared to the Honda Civic's maximum of 419 liters. While the difference is minor, those who frequently carry more luggage might find the Cerato's extra capacity marginally more beneficial. For maximum cargo utility, the Cerato has a slight edge.

How does the fuel economy compare between the Honda Civic and Kia Cerato?

Both the Honda Civic and Kia Cerato offer very competitive fuel economy. The Civic achieves 6.5 – 6.7 L/100km, while the Cerato records 6.7 L/100km. For practical purposes, their fuel efficiency is quite similar, making neither a distinct winner in this specific aspect.

Which car is more suitable for long drives, the Honda Civic or the Kia Cerato?

The Kia Cerato might be slightly more suitable for longer drives due to its larger 53-liter fuel tank, offering a longer range between refueling stops compared to the Honda Civic's 47-liter tank. While both are comfortable sedans, the Cerato's larger tank provides an edge for extended journeys.