Bestseller just got a lot better
Kia has announced some updates for its popular Picanto city car
KIA will unveil its enhanced Picanto at the Geneva Motor Show next month. Its popular A-segment city hatchback features a range of dynamic and visual improve- ments to maintain its competitiveness, according to the company.
Locally, a spokesperson for Kia SA has confirmed that the new model will arrive here fairly soon after its Geneva reveal during the second quarter.
We will definitely get the new five-door models but the local operation is still considering whether to bring in the threedoor derivative.
The next generation Picanto boasts redesigned front and rear bumpers to enhance the car’s bold looks, as well as updates to that hallmark “tiger nose” grille. Buyers can now choose a new 14inch alloy wheel design, and the inclusion of an optional sport pack makes the upgraded car stand out.
Inside, it is now fitted with new chrome accents surrounding the driver’s instrument binnacle and dashboard air vents, and a new cloth upholstery pattern boosts the car’s youthful appeal. At the centre of the dashboard, a more modern fascia now surrounds the audio system.
A range of optional premium features are being introduced to the model for the first time, including the latest generation of the company’s audio-video navigation system with a large seven-inch display screen. Customers can also specify a cruise control and speed limiter system to improve comfort for the driver.
In addition, there will also be a series of three interior colour packs, allowing owners to customise their car and stand out from the crowd. The sporty-looking Red Pack features black artificial leather and red cloth seats and high-gloss red and black door panel inserts. The vibrant, trendy Yellow Pack features black artificial leather and cloth seat upholstery with yellow stitching, as well as a bright yellow dashboard and steering wheel trim. Finally, the premium Brown Pack offers classy brown artificial leather seats, brown door trim and high-gloss piano black dashboard trim. Footwell illumination is also part of the colour packs.
Occupant safety is further improved in the new generation, with larger brakes reducing the vehicle’s stopping distance. New larger 252mm front brakes (increased from 241mm) are available as an option, allowing the car to stop from 100km/h in just 37m — an improvement of 2m, says the company.
There have also been a number of small modifications to its 1l multipoint injection engine, ensuring the car meets strict Euro 6 emissions standards.
The Picanto is manufactured at Kia’s Seosan manufacturing facility in Korea, and is among the brand’s bestselling models worldwide.