Kia Picanto 1.0 LX MT

Characterful and fun to drive. Fitment of ESC would be a welcome addition

Marius Boonzaier

Remains a strong and stylish option in this competitive segment

Kyle Kock

Billed by Kia South Africa as the country’s favourite Kia, more than 100 000 South Africans have put pen to paper for the Picanto since the first generation was launched in SA two decades ago. The facelifted third generation aims to build on the tenets that made its predecessors such a success, while adding some visual panache to the popular package. However, in a segment that, over the years, has seen the addition of a host of equally characterful, pocket-friendly hatchbacks, does the updated Picanto still have what it takes to rule the roost?

With the introduction of the refreshed model, Kia’s local