Now on its 3rd-generation model, the Kia Picanto still bears the same youthful and energetic qualities, yet more cabin space due to the 15 mm increase in its wheelbase. The new-generation Picanto is given an entire update on its exterior. The tiger-nose grille is now extended all the way to the headlights, which pulls it closer to Kia's sportier models like the Rio and Forte. The headlights now look more aggressive and sharper than the previous generation's rounded shape. Even the taillights were redesigned to wrap up its exterior refresh. On the inside, the Picanto offers a more modern and refined interior ambiance. It features a horizontal design that highlights the added space in the headroom, legroom, and shoulder room of the cabin. The rear seats can be folded to a 60:40 split ratio. Kia didn’t touch the Picanto’s engine. It still runs on the same gasoline engines: a 1.0L 3-cylinder with a 5-speed MT and a 1.2L 4-cylinder with a 4-speed AT. What changed though was the improvement in balance and responsive driving experience, thanks to the chassis upgrade.
Launch
Back when the current Kia Picanto was launched, the subcompact hatch was made available on four distinct variants. Both LX and EX trims can be had in either manual or automatic. The engine may also vary depending on the trim level you purchase, there's a 1.0-liter 3-cylinder gasoline engine for the LX trims, while the higher EX trims get a slightly bigger 1.2-liter 4-cylinder gasoline engine that puts out greater figures. Its funky profile can be then personalized through a wide range of vibrant colors such as Lime Light, Honey Bee, and many more.
Platform, Chassis and Powertrain
The Kia Picanto maintains that comfortable yet stable ride all thanks to its front McPherson strut with stabilizer and coupled torsion beam axle for the rear. As mentioned, this subcompact hatchback has two engine options. For the LX trim, there's a 1.0-liter 3-cylinder gasoline engine, producing 66 hp and 95 Nm of torque. Moreover, there's also a larger 1.2-liter 4-cylinder gasoline engine reserved for the EX trims, respectively, it churns out a healthier 83 hp and 122 Nm of torque. Both of the said mills could either be paired with a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic. Power is then sent to the front wheels.
Chassis
Class
City Car
Body Style
5-Door Hatchback
Platform
Layout
Front Engine, Front-Wheel Drive
Platform
SA Platform
Powertrain
Engine
1.0L Inline-3 Cylinder Petrol, Multi Point Injection
1.2L Inline-4 Cylinder Petrol, Multi Point Injection
Power Output
66 hp, 95 Nm of torque (1.0L)
83 hp, 122 Nm of torque (1.2L)
The Picanto is a cinch to drive. The light and rather sharp steering feel allows for precise inputs, and the well-behaved chassis allows for you to take turns at speed with confidence. It’s indeed manageable, which is admittedly given for the category. You get nice feedback with the steering wheel and the small hatchback feels stable at speed. NVH insulation is also well managed for such a light vehicle. You also get creature comfort like a reverse camera that makes backing into parking lots a breeze. Power is adequate in the 1.2-liter 4-cylinder motor, but it's no athlete. It goes up to speed respectably, and the transmission performs adequately being a 4-speed automatic.
Technology Features
While lower variants of the Picanto get the more traditional radio with AM/FM function and Bluetooth connectivity, EX trims, on the other are equipped with a state-of-the-art touchscreen, which measures 7-inches. The larger infotainment system features voice control, and more importantly, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, therefore allowing drivers or passengers to seamlessly pair their phone with the touchscreen throughout the entire journey. Apart from the more advanced infotainment system, EX trims also benefit from the additional two speakers, which equates to a total of six units.
Other standard features of the Picanto include manual airconditioning, power windows, and a 2.6-inch LCD on the instrument panel which displays important information about the vehicle.
Exterior
On the outside, the Kia Picanto looks clean yet sleek. Apart from the well-planted lines incorporated throughout its body, this subcompact hatch also comes with familiar design cues, including the brand's 'Tiger-nose grille'. The entire front lighting system is composed of halogen units, while the taillights also get halogen bulbs as well. As for the wheels, LX variants get a set of 14-inch steels with covers, while EX variants get 14-inch alloys. Both of the said rims are then wrapped in 175/65 tires.
Interior
The subcompact hatchback offers generous space on the inside. The materials used do give a hint of quality and durability, plus, the overall dash is well laid out, with the buttons and other amenities strategically situated in the right places. Most importantly, the seats are soft and bolstered enough. Like most hatchbacks, the cargo area of the Picanto boasts in terms of good cargo space, 200 liters to be exact, have the second-row seats folded and you'll be greeted with 870 liters of space.
Safety
Standard safety and security features of the Picanto include dual airbags up front, ABS, and ISOFIX tethers. Additionally, selected variants of the Picanto also comes with a reverse camera for that added certainty while backing up.
Connect with the top Kia sales agents in the Philippines. These agents have good reply speeds, process transactions quickly and have good customer reviews
Small hatchbacks in the Philippines are making a return to popularity in the country, and the segment keeps getting better and better. Participants in this comparo include the Honda Brio, Kia Picanto and Toyota Wigo, hoping to claim the title of best small hatchback on a budget. We compare these three popular Models on this small car comparo.
Our Verified Buyer Reviews come from confirmed customers that have had their purchase registered on the AutoDeal platform.
Anonymous
Verified Buyer
Kia Picanto 1.2 EX AT
Purchased from Kia, Davao
3.8/5
August 18, 2022
nice car good for city driving
nice car good for city driving
Anonymous
Verified Buyer
Kia Picanto 1.0 LX AT
Purchased from Kia, Pampanga
4.8/5
March 27, 2021
Ronaldo Naman
Verified Buyer
Kia Picanto 1.0 LX AT
Purchased from Kia, Pangasinan
4.7/5
July 27, 2020
Kia Picanto FAQs
Ask our team of experts any question and we will do our best to give you the best answer possible.
Does the Kia Picanto come with an automatic transmission
The Kia Picanto in the Philippines can be had with a 4-speed automatic transmission for its LX and EX variants.
How many occupants can fit in the Kia Picanto?
The Kia Picanto in the Philippines comes with a maximum seating capacity for 5 occupants.
Is the Kia Picanto gasoline?
The Kia Picanto comes powered by two frugal gasoline engines in the Philippines.
Does the Kia Picanto come with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto?
The Kia Picanto in the Philippines has Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard for its EX variants.
How many engine options does the Kia Picanto have?
The Kia Picanto in the Philippines can be had with either a 1.0-liter or a 1.2-liter naturally aspirated engine
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