Picanto is the smallest offering from the Kia family and it has gotten a facelift with exciting new technology features, refreshed styling, and more engine options. Kia Pakistan has also launched Picanto in the country. However, the new facelift will not be coming to Pakistan anytime soon. For now, Pakistan is getting the second generation of Picanto. The facelift version of Picanto will be available first in Europe in the third quarter of 2020. Prices have not yet been revealed by Kia.
Exterior
Major differences in the exterior are more pronounced in the GT-line and X-line models. Prominent changes in the exterior are made to the headlights, bumpers, front grille, and taillights. New exterior colors are also introduced with more options for alloy wheels. There are a total of 10 exterior colors offered with the new model and two new alloy wheel designs. The signature “tiger-nose” grille is more prominent now.
The LED combination taillights seem to be inspired by the Kia Telluride SUV that adds a premium feel to the exterior. New Daytime Running Lights (DRLs) design is also featured on the higher-spec GT-line and X-line models. Moreover, the GT-line gets red and gloss black highlights at the front. The fog lamps are shaped like small jewels. The X-line gets black highlights on the wheel arches and chrome trim on the bumpers.
Interior
Instead of an 7-inch infotainment screen, offered with the previous model, there is now an 8-inch screen. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard features now. Two devices can be paired with the infotainment system simultaneously. The infotainment system gets a new app-based system to run different applications smoothly and without much lag. The new UVO telematics system from Kia is also integrated into the new infotainment system. You can now choose different color packages for the interior. New options for the upholstery also make the cabin more lively and premium-looking. You can choose between black cloth or synthetic leather for seats.
Performance
The facelift version has three different powertrains or engine options. Kia is calling these engines the “Smartstream” engine as they are designed to improve fuel efficiency. This aspect makes the latest model ideal for driving in the city. The base 1.0L naturally-aspirated engine produces 66bhp and the one above it is a 1.2L naturally-aspirated engine produces 83bhp. The new naturally-aspirated engines use dual-port fuel injection system. The new engines also have improved thermal management, improved exhaust gas re-circulation and optimized intake valve timing. All of these things help the new Picanto more fuel-efficient.
The top-of-the-line turbocharged 1.0L engine produces 99bhp. This engine has a better cooling system and a new high-pressure injection system. You can also get your Picanto with a new 5-speed automated manual gearbox that combines benefits of an automatic transmission with a higher fuel average of a manual gearbox. With the help of actuators, the clutch operation is made automatic for gear shifts.
Comfort and Safety
New safety features include blindspot monitoring, driver attention warning, pedestrian detection, lane-keeping assistance, and automatic emergency braking. Other standard safety features are also present like airbags. The new upholstery options make the interior more comfortable to drive in for longer journeys. Even in an urban environment, the suspension is soft over bumps, making daily commutes to work and elsewhere very convenient.
Verdict
The new engine options, new safety technology, and better exterior features make this small hatchback a catchy and captivating choice for buyers. Kia has made this segment more competitive by introducing some of the features that it offers with its high-end premium models. It seems like the facelifted model will surely be popular among consumers and let’s hope we get this facelift in Pakistan as well.
Stay tuned for more news-related and review-based content. Drop your thoughts in the comments section below. What do you think about the Picanto facelift model?
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