Kia has just launched their new Picanto in two trim levels and with an entry-level price of €11,495 ex-works for the LX. This model features generous safety features as well as front electric windows, remote central locking, a rev counter and trip computer.
The EX trim version at €12,595 ex-works is expected to be the volume seller and adds extra features including, air conditioning, steering wheel audio remote control, Bluetooth, front fogs, and rear electric windows.
Kia say that while styling, comfort, and economy distinguish the new Picanto from both the competition and its predecessor in the A segment it’s level of safety equipment is usually associated with higher segment vehicles. Standard safety equipment features six airbags (including side curtain airbags ), ESC electronic stability control, HAC hill-start assist control, and active front seat head restraints to protect against whiplash injury in a rear impact.
For additional safety, an ESS (emergency stop signal ) system is standard. Sensors detect when the driver is braking suddenly and hard, and then flash the brake lights three times to alert following drivers that the car is slowing rapidly. Kia boasts that the new model delivers the highest level of safety equipment in the A segment.
After achieving a five star safety rating in EuroNCAP crash tests with the Kia cee’d and Venga, Soul, Sportage, and Sorento, Kia engineers are confident that the new Picanto will prove to be one of the safest A-segment cars in both EuroNCAP and other international crash tests.
The new Picanto adopts the distinctive styling cues that are being rolled out on all new Kia models. It is longer than the previous model, and with an extended wheelbase, the new Picanto promises more passenger comfort, and increased cargo space.
The new model is powered by a new Kappa three cylinder 998cc engine that produces 69ps and 95Nm of torque. The advanced technology in the Kappa engine design means that exhaust emissions have been significantly reduced delivering in the case of the engine in the Irish model delivering a CO2 rating of just 99 g/km.
It also gets an upgraded suspension and running gear, which has been developed from the previous model to retain that car’s responsive handling while improving ride quality and refinement.
Kia Motors Ireland managing director James Brooks told the Advertiser, “Kia has enjoyed a healthy 11 per cent share of the small city car segment and with the introduction of the all new Picanto our share of this small but important segment is set to grow. The recently introduced Sportage, this new model and the exciting new Rio which arrives in October reinforces Kia as a world leader in automotive design whilst our seven year warranty is a continuous reminder of our commitment to quality and customer service.”
