Kia Picanto

The cabin is crafted on a 2,400 mm long wheelbase, featuring a five-seat configuration. Most of the trims and accents inside are either finished in satin silver or gloss black. While the center fascia is finished in high gloss, the air vent surrounds, gear shifter, sport satin silver accents in the base trim. The dash fascia, on the other hand, gets a metallic finish, that complements well with the cabin and seat covers. A long list of comfort features have been packed inside that are standard across line-up, these include cruise control with speed limiter, steering wheel-mounted controls, 2.6-inch instrument cluster with multi-function trip computer, power windows at both ends, 12V front power outlet, USB charging port and driver’s side auto up/down window with safety function among several others. Also standard across carline is the 7-inch LCD touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity, steering mounted audio controls, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto, etc. Even though it is a microcar, there are a bunch of storage points such as cup-holders on the floor console, bottle holders on front doors, glovebox, sliding floor console storage box with lid, parcel shelf and front passenger seatback pockets, etc. 

The Kia Picanto hatchback sports a compact semblance with proportions measuring 3,595 mm (length), 1,595 mm (width) and 1,485 mm (height). A satin-finished grille surround is specific to the base trim, while the rest of the range gets a chrome-accented surrounding. Sporting additional bits, the GT-Line package is reserved for the GT-Line variant which includes contrast body accents, twin exhaust tip. A separate X-Line kit is available exclusively with X-Line variant. The outside door handles and waistline, both are finished in chrome, save for the base S trim. Mirrors on the doors are equipped with LED side indicators and can be electrically adjusted as well as folded. A rear spoiler atop reinforces sporty flair into the pint-sized hatchback, while it also comes fitted with wiper and washer in front and rear.

Out of the two units, the lower displacing engine is more powerful and packs a punchy performance. The grunt comes in at low rev range, besides the sports suspension and manual unit make it a more fun drive. 

Braking power on the Kia Picanto range is derived from ventilated units at the front and solid discs at the back. The long list of active safety features includes anti-lock-braking system, electronic stability control, vehicle stability management, hill-start-assist, emergency stop signal, autonomous emergency braking, reverse parking sensors, seatbelt reminders on all positions, a rearview camera with dynamic parking guidelines and a lot more. There are multiple airbags for the safety of driver and occupants, child proof rear door locks and impact sensing auto door unlocking. 

Besides sporting a modish styling, the Picanto packs a good mix of standard fitments, with some optional bits for the higher trims. Overall, it is a good value for money car that offers a fun drive.