The smallest model of the KIA family gets a fresh new look and it suddenly isn’t so “Low-profile” anymore…
The all new redesigned Picanto was launched a couple of weeks ago in Lebanon and NATCO already managed to sell their GT-Line stock. If you’re planning on getting yourself a GT you will probably have to pre-order it now and wait another month for delivery.
While the older Picanto looked rather bubbly, the new racy-looking model sure seems angrier and more charismatic on the road. Much like the new redesigned Rio, the new Picanto gets straighter lines and sharper angles to give it a more serious face and stance.
The new Picanto has a wider radiator grille, a pair of swooped back angry led daytime running lights and some air intakes upfront for extra sportiness. What we absolutely love about the GT model is the abundant red in the radiator grille, air intakes, side skirts and rear lip bumper.
Knowing that car owners usually spend more time looking at the interior of the car rather than the exterior, Kia is giving drivers something to feast their eyes on inside of the new redesigned Picanto. Some noticeable improvements are done to the design of the cabin and we absolutely love it:
Does it drive as good as it looks?
The Third-generation Picanto is available in one engine choice only: 1.2 Liter engine, 84 HP, 5 speed and Front-Wheel-Drive.
Three different trims are offered on the Lebanese market with some spec and option variations:
Picanto LX Manual: $11,800
Picanto LX Automatic: $13,200
Picanto EX FULL Automatic: $ 14,300
Picanto GT LINE Automatic 15,800
*All prices include VAT and Registration (prices might slightly vary due to the fluctuation of the registration fees)
It’s a real bummer that the engine of the Picanto GT isn’t any different from the LS and EX but it is worth mentioning that Kia will be adding a turbocharged 1.0L 3cylinder engine emitting 99 HP later on during the year. This should make the GT even more appealing for buyers seeking additional performance (Let’s hope it will be available locally).
In other good news, the body of the new Picanto is around 32% stiffer than the older model, it also has extra insulation which means less noise and vibrations during the ride, the new Picanto also delivers great comfort and feels pretty agile on turns!
One other change you will notice is the steering, if you’ve ever driven a Picanto before you probably know that the steering usually feels light and loose, the steering on the new model is a little more weighted and this somehow makes you feel more assertive.
What additional options are available on the new Picanto?
Multi-function steering wheel, Bluetooth, AUX and USB are all standard on the New Picanto. If you can slightly increase your budget to go for the EX or GT model you will also get electric heated folding door mirrors, fog lights, keyless entry and 4 automatic windows. Besides the obvious sporty bodywork, the GT also includes Led daytime running lights, Autolight control (light sensor), anti-theft alarm and an Immobilizer.
24
Comment