Features / 12 May 2024 / Michael Taylor

R200,000 hatchbacks taking on the updated Kia Picanto

The updated Kia Picanto has finally arrived in South Africa, revitalizing one of the long-running nameplates in the budget market.

The hatchback’s line-up now consists of six units, with prices ranging from R260,995 to R325,995.

There are two drivetrains to choose from: a 1.0 or 1.2-litre petrol plant with an output of 49kW and 95Nm, or 62kW and 122Nm, respectively.

The 1.0l option has a typical fuel consumption of 5.0-5.3l/100km, while the 1.2l has an average of 5.0-5.9l/100km, and both engines can be paired to either a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic gearbox.

Standard kit on the base Picanto LX includes a multifunction leather steering wheel, remote central locking, black cloth upholstery, 14-inch steel rims with plastic covers, manual aircon, a reverse camera, four speakers, ABS, two front airbags, and an 8.0-inch infotainment screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Upgrading to the EX models will then throw in a set of 14-inch alloy wheels, occupant alert for the rear seats, armrest storage, a 4.2-inch driver’s display, automatic headlights, two more speakers, electronic stability control, and hill-start assist.

Finally, the top-spec EX+ units add larger 15-inch alloys, automatic climate control, two-tone black-and-grey artificial leather upholstery, push-button start, and rear parking sensors.

Each purchase comes with a 5-year/unlimited-kilometre warranty and roadside assistance plan, and a 2-year/30,000km service plan.