In a world where cars seem to be getting bigger and heavier, the Kia Picanto remains a breath of fresh air. While the number of new small city cars has halved since 2018, Kia has stuck to its guns with the Picanto, offering a simple, fuel-powered, and affordable option that could appeal to many drivers. Let’s dive into why this car might be just what you’re looking for.
A Quick History of the Kia Picanto
The Kia Picanto first hit the roads in 2003, followed by a second-generation model in 2011. In 2017, the third generation was introduced, with a significant update arriving in 2020. Now, in 2024, the Picanto has received another facelift while remaining part of the third generation.
What’s New on the Outside?
The front of the new Picanto has undergone a noticeable transformation, with a new bumper, gloss black accents, headlights, and a light bar. The sportier trims—GT Line and GT Line S—get a distinct look, while other trims have a slightly different front end.
The alloy wheels range from 14-inch to 16-inch, with fresh designs across the lineup. At the back, there’s a new look with a relocated badge and a standard light bar across the rear.
Stepping Inside the Picanto
Inside, the updates are more subtle. You now get a digital driver display and an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system as standard across the lineup. The system is straightforward with good graphics and physical shortcut buttons, though more physical controls would be a welcome addition.
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are also standard, though they aren’t wireless. Higher trims offer features like wireless phone charging and a sunroof, but the overall interior design remains focused on practicality rather than luxury.
Space and Comfort
Despite its compact size, the Picanto is surprisingly accommodating. The back seats now come standard with five seats across all trims, and while space is tight for taller passengers, it’s still comfortable for its class. The trunk offers 255 liters of space, with an adjustable boot floor to increase storage capacity when needed.
Under the Hood: Engine Options
The Picanto lineup has seen some changes in the engine department. The 1.0-liter turbocharged engine has been dropped, leaving two naturally aspirated options: a 1.0-liter MPI with 65 horsepower and a 1.2-liter MPI with 77 horsepower.
These engines aren’t built for speed, with the quickest option taking 13.1 seconds to reach 62 mph. However, they offer decent fuel economy, with the 1.0-liter engine achieving up to 54.3 mpg.
On the Road: Driving Experience
The Picanto may not be a powerhouse, but it’s a pleasant car to drive, especially around town. The steering provides good feedback, and the suspension strikes a balance between handling and comfort. While it’s not the quietest car on the highway, it handles daily driving tasks with ease.
Trim Levels and Pricing
Kia has streamlined the Picanto’s trim lineup, starting with the well-equipped “2” trim and moving up to the sportier GT Line and GT Line S. The pricing has seen a slight increase, with the entry-level “2” trim starting at $15,590, making the Picanto one of the more affordable new cars on the market.
Final Thoughts
The Kia Picanto is a great option if you’re looking for a small, fuel-efficient car that doesn’t break the bank. It may not be the fastest or most luxurious option out there, but it’s practical, reliable, and offers plenty of features for its price. If you’re after a simple, no-frills car that’s easy to live with, the Picanto is definitely worth a look.
