Turbo helps new Picanto to pack a powerful punch

KIA has introduced the most powerful version of its Picanto model ever, albeit with an engine of just one litre.

However, despite its diminutive dimensions, it packs quite a punch for such a small three-cylinder unit beneath the bonnet of a city car.

Thanks to turbocharging, it generates 100bhp of power and 170Nm of torque to endow the compact five-door hatchback with acceleration to 60mph in just under 10 seconds.

There is a top speed of 110mph, which means it can cruise effortlessly on motorways, and there is official average economy of 55mpg, with CO2 emissions of just 117g/km.

The car comes with upmarket GT-Line and GT-Line S trim and equipment, which means larger sports bumpers and red highlights within the upper grille, side air intakes and side sills.

The sporting appearance is further emphasised by the addition of a rear diffuser, twin exhaust tailpipes and 16-inch alloy wheels. Bi-function projection headlights deliver a racier look, alongside LED daytime running lights at the front and LED lamps at the rear. Inside, the sporty theme continues with black and red faux leather upholstery, stainless steel pedals and satin chrome interior door handles. Standard kit includes an electric sunroof, heated front seats and steering wheel, automatic air conditioning, a smart key with engine start/stop button and cruise control with speed limiter.

There is also satellite navigation, Kia Connected Services with TomTom and a wireless mobile phone charger as standard.

Alongside the arrival of the new engine, GT-Line versions gain extra equipment, with the 3.8-inch monochrome audio display replaced by a seven-inch touchscreen display with DAB radio and RDS and is now compatible with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.

Boot capacity is 255 litres, which Kia claims is the most of any car in its class, with the 60:40 split-folding rear seats folding flat to increase that space to 1,010 litres.

Prices start at £13,320 for the GT-Line model, with the GT-Line S version costing £14,720.

There is also the longest warranty available on any car, which is a fully transferable seven years or 100,000 miles.