Geneva Motor Show 2017: Kia reveals new Picanto

Kia has unveiled the all-new Picanto, which had its public debut at the 2017 Geneva Motor Show.

Sales are due to start in Spring 2017 and prices should start at around £8500, though they have yet to be officially confirmed.

A 1.0-litre petrol with 67PS and a 1.25-litre petrol with 84PS will be available from launch, while a 1.0-litre petrol turbo with 100PS will arrive at the end of 2017. Transmission is a five-speed manual as standard across all three engines, while the 1.25-litre engine will also be available with a four-speed auto.

Official economy for the turbocharged engine is to be announced, but the 67PS 1.0-litre has an official figure of more than 70mpg. The 1.25 manages up to 62mpg with a manual transmission or 52mpg with the auto.

The new model has the same exterior dimensions as the outgoing car, but promises to provide more cabin space and a larger boot, thanks to a longer wheelbase. Cargo capacity is 255 litres, up 55 litres on the outgoing car, expandable to 1010 litres by folding the rear seats.

Interior quality has taken a step up, with better materials and improved refinement. In fact, Kia promises that the new Picanto will be the quietest car in its class both when at idle or when cruising at a steady speed. There is a higher level of customisation available than before, with a wider variety of interior colour combinations for upholstery and stitching.

Technology includes a seven-inch touchscreen system with navigation, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, Bluetooth, a reversing camera, a USB connector and a wireless charging pad. Auto emergency braking will be available too, though Kia hasn’t yet announced which of the technologies will be fitted as standard, nor has it finalised trim level details. 

Expect more information, including pricing to be announced nearer the launch in Spring 2017.