The Kia Picanto has proven to be a rather popular city car option, especially amongst the younger buyers. Ideal as a city runabout, student car, or even a second car to help ease the burden of high fuel prices. The third and current generation has been with us since 2017 and recently received a revamp for the 2021 model year. This has seen the introduction of a cheeky crossover-styled option, the X-Line and a number of tech updates throughout the rest of the range.
Related: Kia Picanto X-Line (2021) Review
With prices starting from as little as R189 995 for the Kia Picanto 1.0 Start, it's an extremely attractive proposition and we can't blame you for taking a keen interest in it. You'll want to book a test drive with a Kia dealership before making your decision to make sure that it's the right car for you and we'd like to help. We've compiled a list of features that you should look out for when test driving a new Kia Picanto so that you get the most from the experience.
1. Infotainment
We all like to jam out when we drive, the addition of the radio to automobiles was probably one of the best ideas this century and over the last few years the technology has progressed to such an extent that even entry-level cars now feature wonderful infotainment systems.
The unit in the Kia Picanto is an 8-inch touchscreen unit with a clear and legible menu system This rather impressive little system is also Android Auto and Apple CarPlay equipped which means that you can mirror your phone's screen on the infotainment screen and use a variety of in-car approved apps, such as Spotify, Google Maps, Waze and even Whatsapp (the system will read your messages to you so that you don't get too distracted).
These units are available in the new X-Line as well as from the Street grade up. Street models don't have this feature but do have an MP3 radio with Bluetooth connectivity for audio streaming and hands-free phone use.
2. Auto convenience
If you're shopping for one of the better-trimmed models in the range, the Style grade features some stylish cosmetics to make your ride look a little classier. These included a set of 14-inch alloy wheels. That's not the best bit though.
Style models also feature automatic headlights to ensure that you'll never be caught out with your lights off again. This simple addition is one of those features that you'll wonder how you ever managed without it.
Style models also have electric folding mirrors for added convenience so that you can always ensure that your visibility is unobstructed and that your mirrors are safe when parking in tight spots.
3. Safety
Here's one that we hope you don't have to test on your test drive! You'll have to take our word for it that the Kia Picanto has a good safety rating with systems in place to help keep you and your family safe on the road.
44% of the Kia Picanto's bodyshell is crafted from Advanced High-Strength Steel (AHSS) and this includes areas like the floorplan, A-pillars, B-pillars, engine bay, and roof rails, effectively creating a roll cage around the occupants.
In addition to this, the Picanto also has dual airbags, ABS with EBD and ISOFIX mounting points for child seats in the rear.
