The 8 best similar cars to the Kia Picanto
Compact city cars remain a steadfast choice for consumers buying their first car and even some buying their next car. The combination of compact size and keen prices means vehicles like the Kia Picanto still sell well. If the Kia Picanto isn't quite what you're looking for, we take a look at eight options.
Related: Kia Picanto 1.0LX Manual (2024) - Review
The Kia Picanto range in South Africa is available in several trim levels, each with manual or automatic transmission options. Pricing varies, but generally starts from around R236 995 for the entry-level model and goes up to R325 995 for the top-spec version. If the Kia Picanto isn't to your specific tastes, perhaps one of the many contenders will. Here are eight options that may tickle your fancy!
Entry-Level Cars in SA: Ownership Costs for the Kia Picanto
Toyota Starlet
Priced from R 258 000
I love the little Starlet, it drives really well, it's a wonderful little companion and for the money, it's a great buy! - Chad Luckhoff
Suzuki Swift
Priced from R 224 900
The Swift has brilliant starter car makings and driving characteristics, and is all grown up! Don't let anyone put you off buying the latest model. It looks great and drives that way, too. - Ane Albertse
Hyundai i20
Priced from R 309 900
The i20 N Line is a lovely package to spruce up the daily commute.There's merit to this vehicle in what it does to separate itself from the more pedestrian models in its range, and there's fun to be had with it. - Taye Mbiri
Renault Clio
Priced from R 312 999
In terms of ride and handling, the refinement and general ride quality are more than acceptable for a vehicle of this type, with the light thrum of the 3-pot making its way into the cabin, but never feeling intrusive. - Sean Nurse
Fiat 500
Priced from R 310 500
Even after a rough day, the little 500 had the ability to make me smile; it truly is an enjoyable drive. Being able to flat-foot it in almost all scenarios is a hoot and parking lots become so much easier to navigate. With the ever-increasing size of vehicles, it's refreshing to drive a vehicle that is small, compact and easy to park. - Chad Luckhoff
Mazda Mazda2
Priced from R 321 500
The Mazda2 Individual Plus is a wonderful family companion and an ideal second car for the household of four. If you're yet to start your family, then it will be a great first car as well. - Chad Luckhoff
Volkswagen Polo
Priced from R 373 800
A week in the Polo reminded us of just how impressive Volkswagen's small car is in general; however, the price Volkswagen now asks for a product produced locally is far too high, with new entrants to the market offering more value for money. - Sean Nurse
Suzuki Baleno
Priced from R 266 900
This has been such a pleasure to drive, not only to drive but just to live with and then some. It's no surprise why they are so popular on the roads you cant go wrong! - Taye Mbiri
