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

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

⁦Honda Civic⁩ VS ⁦Kia Cerato⁩: the verdict

The Honda Civic edges out the Kia Cerato as the overall winner, particularly for buyers seeking a more dynamic driving experience and superior fuel efficiency in its higher trims. While the Civic commands a higher price, its enhanced performance and greater maximum trunk capacity offer compelling advantages. However, the Kia Cerato remains an excellent choice for budget-conscious buyers prioritizing affordability and a larger fuel tank.
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Price Comparison
Starting at6,999 – 7,590 BHD6,295 – 7,000 BHD
Engine & Power
Engine1,498 – 1,996 cc · 4 cyl1,600 cc · 4 cyl
Horsepower (bhp)123 – 180 hp128 hp
Torque (Nm)151 – 240 Nm154 Nm
Acceleration 0-100 Km/h (sec)7.5 – 11.6 s11 s
Top Speed (Km/h)200 – 210 km/h190 km/h
Fuel Economy (L/100 Km)5.4 – 6.7 L/100km6.7 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity45 – 47 L53 L
Gears—6
TransmissionAutomaticAutomatic
Drive TypeFront Wheel DriveFront Wheel Drive
Fuel TypePetrolPetrol
Measurements
L×W×H4.6 / 4.7 m × 1.8 / 1.8 m × 1.4 / 1.4 m4.6 m × 1.8 m × 1.4 m
Wheelbase (meters)2.7 / 2.7 m2.7 m
Curb Weight (kg)1,255 – 1,363 kg1,287 – 1,633 kg
Trunk Capacity (liters)413 – 525 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 HeadlightsLegroomManual ACMap 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 ComputerTrip MeterTyre 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 is the clear winner here. With up to 180 hp and an acceleration as quick as 7.5 seconds, the Civic provides a more engaging and powerful driving experience compared to the Cerato.

2

Best for Value Seekers

The Kia Cerato takes the lead for affordability. Starting at a more accessible 6,295 BHD, it offers a compelling package of features and reliability at a significantly lower entry price than the Civic.

3

Best for Fuel Efficiency

The Honda Civic is the more economical choice. Achieving as low as 5.4 L/100km, it offers better fuel savings for daily commutes and long drives than the Cerato's 6.7 L/100km.

4

Best for Longer Journeys

The Kia Cerato is better suited for extended trips. Its larger 53 L fuel tank provides a greater range between fill-ups, making it more convenient for road trips compared to the Civic's 47 L maximum.

Pros & cons

Honda Civic

Pros

  • Higher maximum horsepower (up to 180 hp)
  • Quicker acceleration (as low as 7.5 seconds)
  • Better maximum fuel efficiency (as low as 5.4 L/100km)
  • Larger maximum trunk capacity (up to 525 L)
  • Broader range of engine options

Cons

  • Higher starting price point
  • Smaller fuel tank capacity
  • Lower entry-level power
  • Less uniform pricing across trims

Kia Cerato

Pros

  • More affordable starting price (from 6,295 BHD)
  • Larger fuel tank capacity (53 L)
  • Consistent engine offering across trims
  • Lighter starting kerb weight

Cons

  • Lower maximum horsepower
  • Slower acceleration
  • Higher fuel consumption
  • Smaller maximum trunk capacity

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Honda Civic or Kia Cerato better for performance?

The Honda Civic generally offers superior performance, especially in its higher trims, boasting up to 180 hp and accelerating from 0-100 km/h in as little as 7.5 seconds. The Kia Cerato, with 128 hp and 11 seconds acceleration, is more modest. For a more dynamic and responsive drive, the Honda Civic is the better choice.

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

The Honda Civic is more fuel-efficient, with its best trims achieving an impressive 5.4 L/100km. The Kia Cerato offers a fuel economy of 6.7 L/100km. If maximizing fuel savings is a priority, the Honda Civic offers a clear advantage.

Which is more affordable, the Honda Civic or the Kia Cerato?

The Kia Cerato is more affordable, with a starting price of 6,295 BHD, compared to the Honda Civic's starting price of 6,999 BHD. For buyers on a tighter budget, the Kia Cerato presents a more cost-effective entry point without compromising on essential features.

Which car has a larger trunk, the Honda Civic or Kia Cerato?

The Honda Civic offers a larger maximum trunk capacity, reaching up to 525 L in some trims, whereas the Kia Cerato provides 427 L. For those needing more cargo space for luggage or groceries, the Honda Civic has the edge.