The Kia Picanto is a budget-friendly car that offers a fun driving experience. Despite its low price, it comes with a naturally aspirated engine and a manual gearbox, making it an appealing option for those who enjoy the thrill of driving. The facelifted version of the third-generation Picanto features some cosmetic updates, such as Kia EV9-inspired headlights and a new light bar at the rear.
Under the hood, the Picanto offers a choice of engines. The 1.0-litre three-cylinder engine remains, but with slightly less power at 62bhp. The 99bhp turbo version has been discontinued due to fleet CO2 averages. However, the 1.25-litre four-cylinder engine has been reintroduced, although it has also lost a few horses, going down from 83bhp to 77bhp.
In terms of design and styling, the Picanto offers a cutesy look that has been toned down with the facelift. It still retains its charm, but some may prefer more aggressive styling options available in other models. The interior of the Picanto is reasonably well-appointed, with an attractive cabin design. The materials used are fairly cheap-looking hard plastic, but they feel sturdy enough. The entry-level 2 trim comes with artificial leather upholstery on the gear knob and steering wheel, providing a nice touch. The driving position is a bit compromised, especially for taller drivers, but the seats are comfortable and offer adjustable headrests.
When it comes to performance, the Picanto offers a willing and smooth driving experience. The 1.2-litre four-cylinder engine provides more power and torque compared to the 1.0-litre three-cylinder engine, allowing for a more effortless drive. However, the 1.0-litre engine has its own charm and can be enjoyed by revving it out. The manual gearbox is outstanding, offering smooth shifts, while the automated manual gearbox option is best avoided due to its slow and clunky performance.
In terms of ride and handling, the Picanto shines with its light and small footprint. It may not be the fastest or most exciting car to drive, but its small size and light weight make it a joy to maneuver. The steering is light but does provide some feedback when pushing the car to its limits. The suspension setup offers a surprising amount of isolation and composure, although the low-speed ride can be affected by larger wheels and shorter sidewalls.
In terms of running costs, the Picanto is economical and one of the cheapest cars in the UK. However, some rivals may offer even lower prices. The Picanto’s light weight and small engines contribute to its efficiency, allowing for a fuel economy of around 50mpg.
Overall, the updated Kia Picanto may not be better than its predecessor in every aspect, but it still offers a charming and fun driving experience. While some manufacturers have given up on the cheap car segment, the Picanto continues to provide an affordable option with its well-equipped interior, good driving dynamics, and decent practicality. Alternatives such as the Dacia Sandero, Hyundai i10, Toyota Aygo X, and upcoming Citroën C3 are worth considering, but the Picanto holds its own in this competitive market.