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In Brief: Kia Picanto – What else can you ask for?

Eric · Nov 21, 2019 09:58 AM

2019 Kia Picanto front

(2019 Kia Picanto Price and Specs | Gallery)

The Kia Picanto has been a value-for-money preposition since the TA generation was introduced here back in 2013, as it was generously equipped for not a lot of money. 

2019 Kia Picanto front and rear

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Fast forward to 2018, Kia Malaysia introduced the all-new third generation Kia Picanto, which remains as the benchmark for how small and cheap cars should be.

How Much Is It?

Kia Malaysia offers two variants of the Picanto: the 1.2 EX and 1.2 GT-Line. The 1.2 EX is priced from RM 49,888, while the 1.2 GT-Line is priced from RM 57,888.

In Brief: Kia Picanto – What else can you ask for? 01

With a price tag that starts from RM 49,888, the Kia Picanto 1.2 EX is the cheapest new car to offer 6 airbags, stability control, and hill start assist.

2019 Kia Picanto side

As for the pricier Picanto 1.2 GT-Line, this variant adds a host of features including auto emergency braking, a more aggressive exterior design, larger wheels, automatic air-conditioning, and a sunroof.

2019 Kia Picanto front

Kia Picanto GT-Line

Both variants of the Picanto offer a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support, six speakers, keyless entry with engine push start button, and automatic headlights.

Pros and Cons

Although the Kia Picanto competes with the Perodua Axia, the Picanto’s on-road behaviour is miles ahead of the Axia, as it soaks up road irregularities like a large sedan. Only on really poor roads does the Picanto struggle to iron it out, but that could be caused by its short wheelbase.

In Brief: Kia Picanto – What else can you ask for? 04

Apart from its ability to soak up road irregularities, the Picanto also strives in taking corners, thanks to its responsive steering rack and well-tuned suspension set-up. The suspension set-up also helps the Picanto to remain planted at highway speeds.

2019 Kia Picanto dashboard

Further separating the Picanto apart from the Axia is its soundproofing, allowing for a cabin that is more pleasant to be in than the Axia.

2019 Kia Picanto rear seats

However, what the Picanto lacks is telescopic steering adjustment, which could be a deal breaker for taller folks, as it is much harder to get into a comfortable driving position.

2019 Kia Picanto rear

Then there’s the rear leg room, which could be a bit tight for taller folks sitting at the back. Although you could fit 3 adults at the rear, we wouldn't recommend it.

2019 Kia Picanto Apple CarPlay

The tiny foot print also means that the Picanto’s boot space is nothing to shout about, coming in at 255 litres. Boot space can be further expanded by folding down the rear seats.

In Brief: Kia Picanto – What else can you ask for? 09

Eric

Editor

Started from the IT industry but somehow managed to find his way into the automotive industry. If he’s not gaming, he’s constantly tinkering with his daily/weekend car.

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