The Kia Picanto just got better!
Completely redesigned, the new model moved the Picanto from ‘cute’ and ‘friendly’ to ‘mature’ and ‘handsome’, combining sporty styling, a high quality interior, frugal and efficient engines and exceptional levels of standard equipment to create a car that is, quite simply, great.
While the two-model Picanto line-up remains unchanged, enhancements to the exterior endows it with a sportier, sexier face thanks to a revised ‘tiger nose’ grille and a restyled front bumper.
Two of Kia Motor Corporation’s efficient Kappa engines do duty in the updated Picanto, starting with 51 kW and 94 N.m of torque in the 1.0 LX. A four-cylinder engine is utilised in the range-topping 1.2 EX, producing 65 kW and 120 N.m of torque. Both engines are mated to a five-speed manual transmission, but a four-speed automatic transmission is available as an option.
Features available on both models include manual air-conditioning, an under-floor trunk storage box, retractable dual cup holders and sun visors with vanity mirrors, as well as AUX/iPod/USB connections for the radio CD player with MP3 compatibility (the EX also sports steering wheel mounted controls and hands-free Bluetooth).
The 1.0 LX and 1.2 EX boasts driver and passenger airbags. ABS anti-lock braking is standard on the 1.2 EX, as is an ESS (Emergency Stop Signal) system. Sensors detect when the driver is braking suddenly and hard, and then flash the brake lights three times to alert motorists behind you that the car is slowing rapidly. All models ship as standard with ISOFIX child seat anchors.
The Picanto 1.0 LX retails for R130 995 (R142 995 for the automatic version), and the range-topping 1.2 EX for R140 995 (R152 995 for the automatic version). All derivatives ship as standard with a five-year/ 100 000km warranty. A two-year/ 45 000km optional service plan is also available.