No surprises in small perfectly formed car
The tiny Picanto may not be the most powerful vehicle, but it lives up to expectations, writes Julie Marshall
The Picanto is the smallest model in Kia’s line-up and is currently well into its third generation – launched in 2020.
It’s tiny but has five doors and can seat four in relative comfort–unlessyouhaveatrio of six-footers to transport.
It is powered by a three-cylinder 99bhp one-litre turbocharged petrol engine which is not particularly refined nor quick,andkeepingupwithtraffic on fast roads can be a challenge.
Our test model in 2 trim came mated to the five-speed gearbox which gave precise shifts – Picanto is also available with a CVT box but that makes theofficial0-62mphdashacouple of seconds slower.
Itmightnotbequick,butthe upsideistheexcellentfuelconsumption:official58.9mpgand our week-long test on mixed roadsgaveanaverageof52mpg.
And, being small it is nippy around town with a tight turningcircleandisadoddletopark due to the excellent all-round visibility.
It’squiteafunlittlecarifyou use it for its intended purpose ie around the city. Just don’t expect it to keep up with fastflowing traffic on the motorway, especially if you’re going up a hill. And be prepared to change gear on a regular basis to make the most of the 66bhp engine’s power.
The ride is actually quite refined and the little Picanto with its 14in wheels skips over potholesandbrokentarmacfar better than expected.
The exterior is stylish enough but is not so quirky as to alienate the more conservative car buyer. Body-coloured bumpers, mirrors and handles make for a smart all-over appearance
The interior is also smart withdecentqualityplasticsand a stylish three-spoke steering wheelwhichhousessomeofthe controls for the stereo and other functions. The black cloth upholstery could do with a bit of trim to liven it up, though.
Picanto offers plenty of space and all the controls are easy to access and use from the first time you get behind the wheel. There’s not a lot of storage although the door pockets are a decent enough size.
Our 2-spec came with the 4.2in mono audio display – 3-spec and above get an 8in infotainment screen which works with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. In 2 there is just one USB port and a 12V socket but at least it has Bluetooth.
The front seats slide and recline and the steering wheel tilts so we didn’t have any trouble getting comfortable.
The rear seats split 60:40 and the 255-litre boot is adequateforafewbagsofshopping or a couple of small suitcases but you’ll struggle to fit much more in unless you drop the rear seats forward.
All models come with a long list of standard equipment including a clutch of driver safety aids which have earned the Picanto a four-star Euro NCAP rating.
If you want luxuries like parking sensors and reversing camerasasstandardyou’llneed to upgrade to 3-spec: it’s amazing how much you come to rely on them once you’ve had them fittedandmissthemwhenthey are not there.
Kias all have an excellent warranty and Picanto is no exception. New cars come with seven-years/100,000milesand complimentary12-monthroadside assistance.