Upgraded Picanto introduces safety suite from Kia’s larger cars and new new ‘Smartstream’ petrol powertrain.

The new Picanto includes a refreshed design for all models, including ‘GT-Line’ and ‘X-Line’ variants

Due on-sale in Europe during the third quarter of 2020, the new Picanto introduces a new design, new technology and new safety systems typically found in its larger models.

The Picanto line-up has received a comprehensive enhancement to exterior design, with significant updates made to the sporty ‘GT-Line’ and SUV-inspired ‘X-Line’ models in particular, including revised quad-LED daytime running lamps.

The interior features a larger 8.0-inch ‘floating’ widescreen audio visual navigation (AVN) system, and a high-resolution 4.2-inch digital display in the driver’s instrument cluster, complete with new ‘Phase II’ UVO Connect telematics – of which more details are to be revealed later, Kia said.

The engine line-up features a 1.0-litre T-GDi (Turbocharged Gasoline Direct injection) engine producing 100hp, and a naturally-aspirated 1.0-litre engine, producing 67hp. The updated Picanto is the first Kia model equipped with its new Automated Manual Transmission (AMT), as previously seen on its sibling; the Hyundai i10.

Depending on specification, the Picanto’s new ADAS range includes Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA) with vehicle and pedestrian detection. Additionally, the Picanto is available with Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist (BCA), Lane Keeping Assist (LKA), Driver Attention Warning (DAW), and Lane Following Assist (LFA).

The upgraded Picanto comes with Kia’s standard 7-Year, 100,000-mile warranty. UK specification including emissions and efficiency data, on-sale date and pricing will be announced in due course.