LIFE’S A CRUISE IN THE TOYOTA PRADO

EXPANDING: THE NEW 1.2 SMART AUTO GIVES KIA FANS A TOP-OF-THE-PILE OPTION

Adding even more convenience to a car already packed with comfort and convenience features, KIA Motors South Africa is expanding the KIA Picanto range with the introduction of the Kia Picanto 1.2 Smart Auto.

The range-topping Picanto model has thus far only been available with a five-speed manual transmission.

With more than 700 units sold every month since its launch a mere six months ago, the KIA Picanto is without a doubt one of the most-loved city cars currently available in South Africa.

Now in its third generation, the latest Picanto’s striking new styling makes it stand out in any crowd, with a range of 11 exterior colours – from classic white to vibrant lime green metallic – cementing the Picanto’s reputation as the go-choice for the young and young-at-heart.

The range-topping Picanto Smart’s notably high specification level has also seen many new customers join the KIA family as the trend of buying down continues.

A combination of compact dimensions, smart styling and smart features have convinced these customers that the Picanto is the perfect companion for everyday urban driving.

With everything from two-tone leather upholstery to Apple CarPlay included as standard, comfort and convenience is covered.

And while the compact dimensions go far to ease driving in congested traffic situations, it also makes parking a breeze – especially because of the rear park assist system that incorporates a reverse camera with dynamic guidelines, displayed on a large, 7-inch colour touchscreen, all included as standard on the Picanto Smart.

The Picanto 1.2 Smart Automatic is powered by a four-cylinder 1.25-litre MPI engine that produces peak power of 61 kW, and 122 Nm of torque.

Mated to KIA ’s well-known four-speed automatic transmission, the combination ensures high levels of fuel efficiency to keep running costs low.

For its application in the new Picanto, Kia engineers have optimised the valve timing of the engine’s dual CVVT (continuously-variable valve timing) system, and a new cooling system with shut-off valve that reduces the time it takes the engine to warmup from a cold start. Low-friction coated piston rings also help to reduce cylinder friction for greater efficiency.

The KIA Picanto 1.2 Smart Automatic retails for R212 495, inclusive of KIA ’s class-leading unlimited kilometre, five-year warranty, inclusive of three years’ unlimited kilometres roadside assistance, as standard.

A service plan is available as an option through KIA Financial Services.

“The introduction of an automatic version of the Picanto 1.2 Smart is a direct result of market feedback,” says David Sieff, Marketing Director, KIA Motors South Africa.

“With urban congestion only getting worse, many customers are realising just how perfect the Picanto is for the daily commute to work.

“Our research among both current and prospective owners have confirmed this, and we’re confident that the addition of an automatic derivative of the Picanto 1.2 Smart will cement the Picanto’s position as a customer favourite.”