Kia has finally unveiled the new Picanto facelift in its top-spec GT-Line guise. The third-generation Picanto (which debuted in 2017) received its first facelift in 2020, and this new one is the second facelift to Kia’s entry-level hatchback.
On the outside, the Picanto has undergone significant design revisions, with the front fascia adopting design influences from the Niro and blending them with EV9 to create a distinctive look. An LED bar at the upper section of the ‘tiger nose’ grille connects vertically stacked headlamps in the center. There is a busy front bumper with various indents and a meshed air dam. It’s a similar situation at the back, where upright taillights are linked by the tailgate’s light bar.
Inside, the cabin has only slightly evolved from the outgoing iterations. Kia has included an 8-inch touchscreen and a digital instrument cluster, and new graphics for the infotainment system, however, heating and ventilation controls are now separate. The GT-Line receives a flat-bottomed steering wheel, as well as extras like a heated steering wheel.
Engine details are still unavailable, but we do know that the new Picanto will be available with three-cylinder 1.0- and 1.2L naturally aspirated petrol engines, unless there is a new powertrain option available. The automatic manual gearbox (AMT) is here to stay. Though Kia has reportedly tweaked the engines to make them more environmentally friendly and efficient than previously.
Despite its small size, the Picanto is packed with safety features such as blind spot monitoring and automatic emergency braking, as well as an active lane assistant and a driver attention warning system. More details will become available close to the formal launch of the vehicle.
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The current third-generation Kia Picanto debuted in 2017, over two years before the globally retired second-generation model arrived in Pakistan in late 2019. The one we have here first appeared in 2011 and was phased out in the rest of the world in 2017. Despite the fact that the 3rd generation model has now received its second facelift, we have yet to get rid of the worldwide outmoded 2nd generation Picanto, the price of which has just been jacked up to reach PKR 38.25 lac.
A computer animation professional with over 23 years of industry experience having served in leading organizations, TV channels & production facilities in Pakistan. An avid car enthusiast and petrolhead with an affection to deliver quality content to help shape opinions. Formerly written for PakWheels as well as major publications including Dawn. Founder of CarSpiritPK.com
