In this article:
Who is the Kia Picanto a good car for?
What is the Kia Picanto like to drive?
Tech features in the Kia Picanto
Similar cars to the Kia Picanto
Is the Kia Picanto a good car?
South Africa first saw the diminutive little Kia back in 2004 and while the initial reception was one of scepticism, the model soon proved to a hit with the consumer that was looking for an affordable runabout that was light on fuel and fun to drive. Now in its third generation, the compact Kia still flies off of showroom floors thanks to it's practicality, frugality and attractive packaging.
Who is the Kia Picanto a good car for?
Everyone from the first-time driver, to the experienced hand, looking for a friendly, easy-to-drive package will gravitate towards the Picanto and appreciate the amount of standard equipment and frugal operation of this entry into Kia ownership. Frankly, anyone that is looking to save on fuel costs and requires a reliable daily driver should consider the Kia Picanto.
Is the Kia Picanto a good first car?
The Kia Picanto is an excellent first car. Its small size and light controls make it considerably easier to drive than most crossovers, SUVs and sedans. The low running costs also mean that it's friendlier to student and young professionals who are just getting started out.
Is the Kia Picanto a good family car?
The Picanto only offers a 255-litre boot which will prove a little small for some. It can be expanded to 1010-litres when the seats are folded down, but this is at the expense of the rear seats. Rear leg and headroom are also a little smaller than most would like and as such, the Picanto is only suitable for smaller, younger families.
Is there a Hybrid Kia Picanto?
There are no hybrid models available in the Picanto range. You only get a choice of two petrol engines, either a 1.0-litre 3-cylinder or a 1.2-litre 4-cylinder.
View the latest used Kia Picanto for sale in South Africa
What’s it like to drive?
Reviewer's opinion
"The Picanto X-Line may look cute and adorable, but underneath its streamlined yoga suit is a zesty go-kart that’s itching to make its presence felt. I had just picked up the Picanto X-Line from the airport in Cape Town and was making my way to Somerset West on the N2, when I realised just how at home the Picanto feels in the fast lane."
- Ané Albertse, AutoTrader
Read the full Kia Picanto review
What does it look like?
Exterior
Interior
What is the Kia Picanto like inside?
"Surprisingly spacious" is a term you will often hear used with the Kia Picanto. Space up front is generous enough to cater to most adults and is trimmed respectably for this price point. As a budget offering, one cannot expect swathes of leather and alloys, but the plastics used in the Picanto give no cause for immediate concern. It's stylishly designed and the use of different textures help make it a more interesting place to spend time.
Style
Carrying the unmistakable Kia Tiger Nose design on the front, the current generation Picanto looks far more mature than those than came before it. Sharp creases and a selection of attractive alloy wheels help the affordable Kia look considerably more upmarket than its price tag would suggest.
Tech features
- 8-inch colour touch screen audio
- AUX and USB ports
- Audio remote controls
- Front cup holder
- MDPS (motor-driven power steering) with tilt steering wheel
Price and specs
Which is the cheapest Kia Picanto?
You can expect to pay as little as R198 995 for the entry-level Kia Picanto 1.0 Start
Search the latest New and Used Kia Picanto deals in South Africa
How much does it cost?
| Model | Price |
| Kia Picanto 1.0 Start | R198 995 |
| Kia Picanto 1.0 Street | R212 995 |
| Kia Picanto 1.0 Start auto | R212 995 |
| Kia Picanto 1.2 Street | R221 995 |
| Kia Picanto 1.0 Style | R222 995 |
| Kia Picanto 1.0 Street auto | R226 995 |
| Kia Picanto 1.2 Style | R231 995 |
| Kia Picanto 1.2 Street auto | R235 995 |
| Kia Picanto 1.0 Style auto | R236 995 |
| Kia Picanto 1.2 Style auto | R245 995 |
| Kia Picanto 1.2 X-Line | R248 995 |
| Kia Picanto 1.2 X-Line auto | R262 995 |
*Pricing correct at time of publishing and subject to change without notice.
Competitors
Similar Cars to the Kia Picanto
Suzuki S-Presso
Read our latest Suzuki S-Presso reviews
Search the latest new and used Suzuki S-Presso for sale in South Africa
Hyundai Atos
Read our latest Hyundai Atos reviews
Search the latest new and used Hyundai Atos for sale in South Africa
Toyota Agya
Read our latest Toyota Agya reviews
Search the latest new and used Toyota Agya for sale in South Africa
