2011 KIA Picanto spied in Southern Spain

Updated: 07/12/10

Kia has begun testing the all-new Picanto city-car. Now entering its second generation (launched in 2004, facelifted in 2007 & 2009), the Picanto is set to be bigger and wider than the current model.

Spied sunning itself in Granada, Southern Spain, the newcomer is wearing very thick disguise, but that doesn’t mean we can’t visualise the basics. Judging by this prototype, the Picanto will ditch its curvy, feminine look for something more manly and masculine.

Up front, out go the circular headlamps, in favor for ones that are swept back along the flanks, while the Schreyer tiger nose grille is visible and will be similar to that of the Venga sub-compact MPV. In fact, the new model will take most of its design cues off the Venga mini-MPV.

The rear side window kink has been replaced with a muscular shoulder line, lending the Picanto a sportier, leaner look. The boxy side profile will amount to excellent headroom and visibility. While the rear is hidden, we imagine KIA will play it safe.

While the 5dr (pictured here) is the only body-style currently available, KIA is reported into looking at a 3dr variant to help lower the base price. Expect the Picanto to be even more practical than the outgoing model.

Internally, the Picanto is likely to bare resemblance to the Venga, Soul and forthcoming RIO supermini.

Hyundai-KIA’s all-new 1.0 litre petrol engine will live under the bonnet, alongside a 3-cylinder 1.1 CRDi. The 1.0 litre petrol will emit 99g/km. A turbo-charged 1.2 litre petrol engine, developing anything upto 150bhp may be in the pipeline.

Like the current line-up, value for money is key here. So we expect electric front windows, air-conditioning, x4 airbags, MP3 compatible radio/CD player, and electrically adjustable door mirrors to be standard. The all-new Picanto is likely to premier at the Geneva motor show next March, before going on sale next Summer. We anticipate a modest price increase compared to the current £6,500 before topping out around £9,000. Automatics will add anything upto £800 on top of manual models. European prices may start at €8,000.

Via Secretnewcars.com