Kia Industries first opened its factory doors in Korea in 1952 as a moped producer. Kia's first car-only plant commenced production some twenty years later, with the first car rolling off the line in early 1974.
Today, Kia is in partnership with Hyundai. The companies are fully entwined but they trade as separate entities. This collaboration is just part of the reason that Kia models are some of the most prevalent on the UK's roads, accounting for an estimated 1 in 10 vehicles.
The Kia Picanto is an award-winning vehicle, being recipient of the coveted What Car? Award for 'City Car of the Year 2019'. So far, it's proving to be a well-deserved honour.
As befits a car designed for urban driving, there are just two small petrol engine options available for the Kia Picanto Hatchback: a 1.0 litre or, with just a tad more poke, the slightly bigger 1.25 litre. Rumour has it that a sportier engine is currently underdevelopment.
Here are some highlights from three of the Picanto's much-loved range.
Despite its uninspiring name, the 2 has a lot of improvements compared to its baby brother the 1 in terms of the extra features included as standard. The wheels are 14" alloy, there is basic climate control, electric windows and mirrors, an upgraded stereo system with Bluetooth connectivity and some functional improvements to the upholstery.
The 3 is the most popular model of all, having features designed to suit all drivers, regardless of their age, sex or size. Although only up one trim level from the 2, upgrades are apparent in every aspect of the car, from driver comfort to aesthetics. The alloy wheels have moved up a size to 15 and there is the addition of AEB (Autonomous Emergency Braking) to help keep you safe. For many drivers who spend time stuck in urban traffic, the infotainment upgrade is likely to be most attractive! This model enjoys a high-spec, six-speaker audio system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity.
The GT Line is certain to inspire the younger generation. Gone is the plain city car persona. Enter sports styling, including flared wheel arches to show off 16" alloys, twin tailpipes, dual headlamp/foglight fittings, plus re-shaped bumpers and tail lamps. Inside, there's another massive boost for the infotainment system and an upgrade to sporty (faux) leather upholstery.
With the exception of the GT Line model, improvements to the Kia Picanto Hatchback range reflect the needs of the urban-style driver. A lot of thought has gone into driver-comfort features and in-car entertainment. Options go through big changes with each upgrade, with the mid-range options the most popular choices by far.
All models have a good level of built-in safety equipment. This includes six airbags, side-impact protection, ISOFIX child seat fixtures, auto door unlock in the event of an impact and AEB from model 3 up.
There are further driver-assist features included on some models, optional for the basic ones. Particularly recommended for tight city parking is the reversing camera with dynamic guidelines. Also handy for areas with lots of speed cameras is the dual-purpose cruise control and speed limiter function.
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