Cerato II (TD) vs Solano I: which is better?
Kia Cerato II (TD) (2008–2013) vs Lifan Solano I (2008–2016): specs, fuel economy, tax and common problems.
Kia Cerato II (TD)
Lifan Solano ISpecifications
| Kia Cerato II (TD) | Lifan Solano I | |
|---|---|---|
| Production years | 2008–2013 | 2008–2016 |
| Body | sedan | sedan |
| Fuel | petrol | petrol |
| Engines | 1.6 | 1.6 |
| Power, up to | 126 hp | 106 hp |
| Torque, up to | 156 Nm | 137 Nm |
| Gearbox | automatic | manual |
| Drive | front-wheel drive | front-wheel drive |
| Length | 4 530 mm | 4 550 mm |
| Width | 1 775 mm | 1 705 mm |
| Height | 1 460 mm | 1 495 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2 650 mm | 2 605 mm |
| Ground clearance | 160 mm | — |
| Fuel tank | 52 L | 50 L |
| KZ tax 2026 (car under 10 years) | ≈ 13 675 ₸ | ≈ 13 675 ₸ |
The better value is highlighted in green.
Pros, cons and common problems
Kia Cerato II (TD)
Pros
- Conventional automatic, no robotized gearbox or CVT
- Sold in all major markets of the region — parts and mechanics available
Cons
- Hyundai/Kia Gamma 1.6 engine (G4FC, G4FG): catalytic converter breakdown and debris entering the cylinders — scoring
- Hyundai/Kia automatic: jolts on 2–3 shifts and when braking
Engine (Hyundai/Kia Gamma 1.6 (G4FC, G4FG)): catalytic converter breakdown with debris entering the cylinders — scoring; timing chain stretch after 150k km; knocking when worn (valves adjusted with shims).
Gearbox (Hyundai/Kia automatic): kicks on the 2–3 shift and when braking; solenoid and clutch pack wear at high mileage.
Lifan Solano I
Pros
- Sold in all major markets of the region — parts and mechanics available
Cons
- No data
Which one to choose
- Cerato II (TD) — if you care more about: power, torque, wheelbase, fuel tank.
The condition of a specific car matters more than the model: check the service history and get the engine and gearbox inspected before buying.
FAQ
Which is more powerful: Cerato II (TD) or Solano I?
Cerato II (TD): up to 126 hp, Solano I: up to 106 hp.
What is the vehicle tax in Kazakhstan?
For 2026, for a car under 10 years old: Cerato II (TD) — about 13 675 ₸, Solano I — about 13 675 ₸ (base engine). A 0.7 factor applies to cars aged 10–20 years and 0.5 to cars over 20.