Review: 2024 Kia Picanto III (Facelift 2023) 1.0 (62 Hp)

The 2024 Kia Picanto, with its recent facelift, is a compact hatchback that aims to deliver practicality and efficiency for city dwellers and small families. With a modest 1.0-liter engine producing 62 horsepower, this car is designed for those who prioritize fuel economy and ease of maneuverability over raw power. Let's dive into what makes the Kia Picanto a noteworthy choice for urban drivers.

Understanding the Basics

Before we delve into the specifics, let's clarify some key terms. The Kia Picanto is a hatchback, which means it has a rear door that swings upward, providing easy access to the cargo area. This body style is popular for its compact size and versatility, making it ideal for city driving. The Picanto's engine is a 1.0-liter, 3-cylinder, naturally aspirated engine, meaning it doesn't use a turbocharger to boost power. This setup is common in small cars, offering a balance between performance and fuel efficiency.

Performance and Efficiency

The Kia Picanto's 1.0-liter engine delivers 62 horsepower, which might not sound like much, but it's adequate for city driving where speed limits are lower, and traffic is denser. The car's acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0 to 62 mph) takes about 15.4 seconds, and it can reach a maximum speed of 145 km/h (90.1 mph). While it's not a speed demon, the Picanto shines in fuel efficiency, with a combined consumption of 5.2-5.4 liters per 100 km (45.23 - 43.56 US mpg). This makes it an economical choice for daily commutes and short trips.

Space and Practicality

Despite its compact dimensions, the Picanto offers a surprising amount of space. It seats five people and has a trunk space of 255 liters, expandable to 1010 liters with the rear seats folded. This flexibility is perfect for small families or individuals who occasionally need extra cargo space. The car's kerb weight is 985 kg, contributing to its nimble handling and ease of parking in tight urban spaces.

Driving Experience

The Picanto is equipped with a front-wheel-drive system and a 5-speed manual transmission, providing a straightforward and engaging driving experience. Its independent McPherson front suspension and multi-link rear suspension ensure a comfortable ride, even on bumpy city roads. The electric power steering and a minimum turning circle of 9.4 meters make it easy to navigate through crowded streets and parking lots.

Suitability for Different Lifestyles

The Kia Picanto is best suited for city driving and short commutes. Its compact size and excellent fuel efficiency make it an ideal choice for urban environments where parking space is limited, and fuel costs are a concern. For long-distance travel, the Picanto might not be the most comfortable option due to its modest power and limited space. However, for single owners or small families who primarily drive in the city, it offers a practical and economical solution.

Strengths and Weaknesses

Strengths: Excellent fuel efficiency, compact size for easy parking, affordable running costs.
Weaknesses: Limited power for highway driving, basic interior features, not ideal for large families or long trips.

Conclusion

In summary, the 2024 Kia Picanto is a practical and efficient choice for city dwellers and small families. Its compact size, fuel efficiency, and ease of maneuverability make it a standout option for urban driving. When considering a new car, think about what features matter most to you. Do you need a vehicle that's easy to park and economical to run? If so, the Kia Picanto might just be the perfect fit.

Specifications Table

Attribute	Details
Generation	Picanto III (facelift 2023)
Modification (Engine)	1.0 (62 Hp)
Powertrain Architecture	Internal Combustion Engine
Body Type	Hatchback
Seats	5
Doors	5
Combined Fuel Consumption	5.2-5.4 l/100 km
CO2 Emissions	116-121 g/km
Fuel Type	Petrol (Gasoline)
Acceleration (0-100 km/h)	15.4 sec
Maximum Speed	145 km/h
Emission Standard	Euro 6E
Engine Displacement	998 cm3
Number of Cylinders	3
Engine Configuration	Inline
Power Output	62 Hp
Torque	93 Nm
Kerb Weight	985 kg
Max Load	415 kg
Trunk Space (Minimum and Maximum)	255 l / 1010 l
Fuel Tank Capacity	35 l
Length	3605 mm
Width	1595 mm
Height	1485 mm
Wheelbase	2400 mm
Drive Wheel System	Front Wheel Drive
Number of Gears (Transmission Type)	5 gears, manual transmission
Front Suspension	Independent type McPherson
Rear Suspension	Independent multi-link suspension
Front Brakes	Ventilated discs
Assisting Systems	ABS (Anti-lock braking system)
Power Steering	Electric Steering
Tire Size	175/65 R14; 195/45 R16
Wheel Rims Size	14; 16