Positioned at the very bottom of Kia’s European lineup, the Picanto stretches 141 inches long, 62.8 inches wide and 58.7 inches tall, dimensions that make it roughly the same size as the Chevrolet Spark. The pint-sized hatchback’s front end has been upgraded with a new bumper that incorporates a larger air dam and a bolder rendition of Kia’s trademarked tiger-nose radiator grille.
The middle section of the Picanto carries over essentially unchanged while the rear end gains blacked-out tail lamps and a strip of black trim at the bottom of the bumper. New 14-inch alloy wheels and an optional Sport Pack round out the exterior modifications.
Kia has added a number of features to the list of options including cruise control and a seven-inch touch screen that runs the automaker’s AVN infotainment system. One of the most notable additions to the options list is a set of larger front brakes that help the Picanto stop from 62 mph in 121 feet.
The biggest updates for 2015 are found under the hood, where the Picanto’s 1.0-liter three-cylinder has undergone a series of modifications to comply with the strict Euro 6 emissions norms that recently came into effect across Europe. The three-banger’s output remains unchanged at 68 horsepower at 6,200 rpm and 69 lb-ft. of torque at 3,500 rpm. A five-speed manual transmission is the only unit available.
Built in South Korea, the updated Kia Picanto will go on sale across Europe by the end of next month. Pricing information has not been published yet.
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