In keeping with the general buying-down trend across all segments, the 2024 Kia Picanto 1.0 LX that we have been driving returns the power of purchase to the people.
When discussing the 2024 Kia Picanto 1.0 LX, where do you draw the distinction between a facelift and an entirely new car? The Korean company is referring to the most recent Kia Picanto 1.0 LX from 2024 as a significant facelift. Conversely, we think they’re being fairly modest. This appears to us to be a brand-new automobile overall. Let’s explain now.
2024 KIA Picanto 1.0 LX
It receives a fresh evolution from a design perspective of the notorious “tiger nose” of Peter Schreyer. Sharper headlamps and new, angular bumpers are added to this. Similar to many VW group vehicles, there is a single-bar taillight surrounding the tail. Additionally, nearly every body panel has a distinct appearance from the one before it. We enjoy…
It still uses the same dependable chassis and the same lineup of 1.2 and 1.0-liter gasoline engines that the market is accustomed to, though. Kia South Africa, thankfully, allowed us to try out the 2024 Kia Picanto 1.0 LX, which is the entry-level model with steel wheels instead of the more costly 1.2 EX (R307 995). This accurately captures the current state of the new-car market, Mzansi. Kia has shown great bravery, and thankfully, the least expensive Picanto—which retails for R260 995—is more than capable of handling the job.
Amazing Base Spec
The base EX model has an amazing specification list. Numerous convenience options, like as an 8-inch touchscreen screen with Android Auto and Apply CarPlay, are available inside the interior. Even while reversing, there’s a rear-view camera to safeguard that attractive taillight bar. The air conditioning and leather-wrapped multifunction steering wheel will be much loved by buyers. Because 14-inch wheels are limited to steelies, 15-inch alloy wheels require a somewhat higher price.
Apart from that, the 2024 Kia Picanto 1.0 LX has the fortunate ability to feel sophisticated and upscale. The switchgear is all pleasant to the touch, and the fabric seats are comfortable. Basically, I can tell you there are no unpleasant surprises after spending the entire day behind the wheel. Unfortunately, this isn’t always the case for many cars that cost significantly more.
Powertrain Transportation
The powertrains of the Picanto range are carried over from the previous model, as we have already said. A 1.0-liter, four-cylinder, naturally aspirated Kappa engine producing 49 kW and 95 Nm powers the 2024 Kia Picanto 1.0 LX. We have never previously evaluated a Picanto using the smallest unit. And the response and refinement took us by surprise.
It’s hardly a sports car, of course, but the manual clutch and gear shift work well. It pulls enthusiastically up hills, and we never felt that it was underperforming in the Cape Town CBD. We’ll have to investigate that in a later road test. However, things might be different out on the open road. The Picanto’s LCD display showed a fuel economy of never more than 5.1 l/100 km, which is rather good for exclusively urban driving.
Verdict
What does the new 2024 Kia Picanto 1.0 LX represent—a major makeover or a completely new car? We would contend with the first. The Korean producer has made subtle adjustments in certain areas and more noticeable ones in others. But together, they form a beautifully believable totality.
One of our favorite tiny vehicles has always been the Picanto, and new one feels even more upscale and sophisticated. At only R260 995, it’s also reasonably priced for this economy. That’s why it’s popular not just with first-time buyers but also with those who are over 50 and in the 26–30 age range. It is a compact automobile with no age limitations.
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