The 2018 Kia Picanto is the smallest and most compact car in the KIA’s lineup. In terms of its size and cost, it firmly sits under the newest KIA Rio. However, that doesn’t mean the Picanto is in any way inferior to the Rio. In fact, it has plenty of features to offer in that small and cute body.

The latest iteration comes with a good number of technological advancements, safety systems, and a new Engine. The South Korean manufacturer expects the Picanto to leave a strong impression on the younger audience and compete with the Hyundai i10 and the Fiat Panda.

2018 KIA Picanto – Exterior Look, Interior Features and Tech

Whereas the previous Picanto models were known for their cheeky and cute looks, the 2018 KIA Picanto goes for a more athletic, angrier look. Just like the latest Rio, the upcoming Picanto will sport an abundance of straight lines and sharper angles. This approach will result in a more serious and somewhat menacing look.

In terms of its size, the new car will feature the exact measurements as the 2017 edition. However, the South Korean engineers have decided to change the overhangs a bit.

The front one will be shorter, contributing to a more sportier look. The rear one will be notably longer, so as to increase the interior luggage space. When it comes to the individual elements, the new Picanto will have a wider grille and redesigned air intakes. The grille will preserve that famous tiger-nose look while being slimmer and wider.

We will also see a bolder bumper, revamped headlights, and new C-shaped rear light clusters.

Interior Features and Tech

Inside the 2018 KIA Picanto, the customers can expect a lot of practicality, a decent amount of comfort, and not much luxury. This is not surprising since the Picanto is designed to offer reliability and convenience at a low price. Its cabin will feature middle-class materials, including durable plastic, faux leather, and a bit of satin chrome.

As we’ve mentioned before, the 2018 edition will be roomier than the previous one.

Therefore, we will see more legroom and headroom, as well as larger cargo capacity. This, along with comfortable and fully supportive seats, will ensure a good amount of comfort and a pleasant experience.

Tech-wise, the 2018 KIA Picanto will feature a 7-inch touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, TomTom navigation, a 6-speaker sound system, Bluetooth and more.

Engine Options, Specs, and Performance of the 2018 KIA Picanto

Under the hood, the 2018 KIA Picanto will offer a selection of 3 engines. The basic variant will be a 1.0-liter 3-cylinder engine, with 66 hp and 70 lb-ft. This one will propel the car from 0 to 62 mph in 13.8 seconds. Next up, there will be a 1.25-liter 4-cylinder engine, with 83 hp and 89 lb-ft of torque. With it, the Picanto will go 0-62 mph in less than 12 seconds.

The most powerful variant will be a 1.0-liter turbocharged 3-cylinder engine. This powertrain will produce 98 hp and push the car to a speed of 62 mph in less than 9 seconds. These engines will come paired with either a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic transmission.

Availability Date and Price

The 2018 KIA Picanto is expected to hit the car stores during the 4th quarter of 2017. Its price will range from $12.000 for the basic variant, to $15.000 for the premium one.

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