As it enters its third generation, the Kia Picanto continues to impress, writes Tim Barnes-Clay.
Since its debut in 2003, the Picanto has showcased its resilience and adaptability. The latest iteration brings aesthetic enhancements and engineering tweaks, making it a well-rounded option for urban dwellers.
Revamped Trim Options and Engines
The updated Picanto offers four main trim levels and a limited edition variant. Notably, Kia has streamlined its engine line up, discontinuing the turbocharged 1.0-litre petrol in favour of two options now available in detuned versions. This adjustment has trimmed power and carbon emissions by about five to six PS. Consequently, the bottom three trims house a non-turbo 1.0-litre engine, delivering 62 PS, while the more upscale Shadow and GT-Line S trims feature a 1.2-litre unit with a slightly peppier output of 78 PS. You can opt for either a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic transmission.
Striking Looks with Modern Flair
Visually, the Kia Picanto’s refashioned front end stands out. The spread-out headlights are now connected by a stylish horizontal lightbar, enhancing the contemporary look. The revised grille structure and more aggressive air intakes add a sporty flair that gives the car a dynamic stance, especially in the GT-Line and GT-Line S trims.
Interior Comfort Meets Technology
While the interior remains essentially unchanged – maintaining its innovative design – it has been upgraded with features that make it even more appealing. The cabin boasts grey seat outlines in the GT-Line trim tested here, complemented by bright silver accents. The sporty steering wheel adds an inviting touch. A significant upgrade is the inclusion of a standard infotainment touchscreen across the range, ensuring that even the base model is equipped with features like SatNav. A new digital instrument cluster also replaces analogue dials, providing clarity and ease of use.
Driving Dynamics: A Joyful Experience
One of the Picanto’s notable qualities is its agility, particularly within urban landscapes. With a weight under a tonne, this compact car excels at navigating through tight traffic and sharp turns. The Picanto handles admirably, rewarding you with sharp responsiveness and a lively feel even on rural roads.
Performance figures reveal that the automatic transmission lags behind the manual option. The automatic takes 16.5 seconds to reach 62 mph with the 1.2-litre engine and 18.4 seconds with the 1.0-litre. In contrast, the manual ties the 1.2-litre to a 13.1-second sprint, while the 1.0-litre, driven for this review, registers 15.4 seconds – a solid performance for manual enthusiasts.
Space and Practicality
Inside, the Picanto offers a comfortable driving experience with ample legroom for taller drivers, although this may impact rear legroom if the front seats are pushed back. The boot space measures 255 litres and expands to an impressive 1,010 litres with the rear seats folded in a 60/40 configuration, making it ample for everyday needs like supermarket shopping.
Final Thoughts
My test of the GT-Line trim with the 1.0-litre engine yielded a commendable 52.3 mpg, with CO2 emissions clocking in at 121 g/km. Overall, the Kia Picanto emerges as a delightful package, offering a blend of fun driving dynamics, improved aesthetics, and solid cabin quality – all at an attractive price point (£16,745 for the GT-Line, as tested).
For those seeking a city car – or a school run vehicle – that doesn’t compromise on style or comfort, the Picanto is an excellent choice. Even the entry-level ‘2’ trim likely meets the needs of most drivers. However, the GT-Line certainly delivers a more dynamic appeal for those desiring a sporty edge. The benefits of the Kia Picanto outweigh any minor drawbacks, making it a genuine competitor in its segment.
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