Kia revised its microcar Picanto a second time and brought the model no new generation. Our photographer has now delivered the first Erlkönig pictures.
The third generation of the Picanto (JA) has been on the market since 2017 and received its first facelift in 2020. From 2023/2024, the fourth generation of the micro car would be on the program, based on the classic product cycles.
Euro 7 as a reason for the Picanto facelift?
However, Kia does not change the model of the Picanto and makes the old little one even fresher. Why? One can only speculate here. The Euro 7 emissions standard will come into force from 2025, around a year after the launch of the facelift model. In the case of microcars in particular, it would be difficult to pass on the significantly greater development effort for a new generation, including new engines, to customers. Especially since the Korean carmaker is planning 14 new electric cars by 2027 and is also planning a micro electric car, the EV 1.
But back to the Kia Picanto. The model comes with a new front and shows the well-known Kia grill and the Niro-inspired headlights including the L-shaped daytime running light strips. In addition to the headlights, the new rear lights and the third brake light appear to be made of LED technology.
The side view does not reveal any changes in the familiar design and a look at the partially camouflaged interior reveals that a free-standing screen is enthroned on the dashboard as usual and the cockpit design is based on the current model. Kia is sure to adjust the equipment lines and details. There should also be an update to the infotainment and security systems.
Engine changes?
On the engine side, there should be few changes in the facelift. The Picanto is currently available with three engines. In addition to a 1.0 and 1.2 liter petrol engine, there is also a 1.2 liter diesel on the price list. The latter delivers 100 hp, while the petrol units have 67 or 84 hp. In terms of consumption, the models should then start with a little less power.
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Conclusion
Kia missed the Picanto a second major facelift, although actually a new generation would be pending. However, the completely new development of a small car is likely to be too high for the Koreans in view of Euro 7 and their own electric strategy – especially since the additional expense in the price-sensitive small car segment cannot be passed on to the customer. You can read here how Hyundai is doing with the i10, i20 and i30.