Kia: This is the next Picanto
SMALL, BUT OHO Early, even very early, Kia announces details of the new Picanto, even though it won't be on the market until next year. The facelift is so extensive that the little one is hardly recognizable.
The renovation measures are particularly extensive at the front. It is completely new with slim LED daytime running lights and angular headlights, which are also optionally available in LED technology. The bumper has also been completely redesigned. The suggested tiger-nose radiator grille is now slimmer, while the air intake underneath is slightly larger.
16 inch alloy wheels ex works
At the rear, on the other hand, the upgraded Picanto only has redesigned taillights and a new bumper. In the top GT-line trim, the bumper is additionally adorned with a suggested rear diffuser. The GT-line comes as standard on new 16-inch diamond-cut aluminum wheels, while the entry-level Picanto is fitted with 14-inch wheels.
Overall, the revised Picanto now looks more masculine. Its new design language, which Kia calls Opposites United, is intended to provide insights into the future design direction of the Koreans.
4.2 inch display
We board the interior. Even the smallest Kia has arrived in the modern age. The digital instrument cluster with a 4.2-inch display in front of the driver is completely new and easy to read. To the right of it in the center of the cockpit is an eight-inch touchscreen. The multimedia system connects smartphones via Apple Carplay and Android Auto and navigates to the destination via online route guidance. The infotainment receives updates over-the-air.
Good air above the heads
Everyone finds their way around the Picanto. The workplace is tidy and the controls are impeccable. You sit comfortably and the space in the first row proves to be decent. The rear, on the other hand, is noticeably more cramped. There is still room above the heads even for long Europeans, but there is a lack of knee room. However, it's still enough for small children or short journeys. With an exterior length of only 3.60 meters, the Kia can't perform any miracles either - it's a small car, not a luxury sedan. However, the small Korean is not sparsely equipped. If desired, the interior can even be spruced up with (pet-free) leather.
Manual or automatic transmission
The engines will remain the familiar three-cylinder with a displacement of one liter or the 1.2-liter four-cylinder. Kia currently does not provide any precise information on the power output. Power is transmitted via a manual five-speed transmission or optionally via an automated gearbox with five gears. Depending on the engine and equipment, there are also many driver assistants available for the Picanto, some of which come as standard and some of which are available at extra cost.
