Makers of mini subcompact hatchbacks face a big challenge. They need to fit tech and safety features into miniscule dimensions, while keeping costs to a minimum—both in production and in the finished product. And that's on top of penning an exterior that would defy the affordable price.
So, it seems that Kia has fulfilled the brief with its Picanto. From P590,000 to P745,000 for its four variants, the Picanto comes with 1.0- and 1.2-liter engines. More interesting is the looks, with uncluttered styling front, side, and rear, the Picanto will look right at home next to European cars that cost three times as much.
With the Picanto's decently equipped interior across its two lower LX and upper EX trims, perhaps Kia has nailed the "more-for-less" design approach.
Both the Picanto LX and EX have fabric seats for all five occupants, and polyurethane tillers which adjust for tilt only. The entire range boasts five cupholders.
Between the cars' speedometer and tachometer sits an LCD trip meter. Steering wheel buttons can control the trip meter in the LX, while EX adds to that a set buttons which control the audio system.
The EX adds a vanity mirror in the driver's side sun visor, and swaps the LX's black dashboard trim and inside door handles for silver ones. Seat back pockets in the front seats are exclusive to the Picanto EX.
In the Picanto LX, rear passengers use a bench-type seat, whose entire backrest folds to expand the 255-liter cargo area. For more flexibility, the EX uses a 60:40 split rear seat.
A conventional audio system, with the good old-fashioned buttons, are fitted to the Picanto LX. The system allows for connectivity via auxiliary input, Bluetooth, MP3, and USB. Music can be enjoyed through four speakers.
As for the top-spec Picanto, a seven-inch touchscreen is fitted front and center. Along with the abovementioned connectivity, this touchscreen allows Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as voice command. Two tweeters enhance the sound from the four speakers.
A 12-volt USB port is common to the two Picanto variants. Thanks to the port, there's no need to fit aftermarket gadget chargers to the cigarette lighter. Phones being charged can be placed on a tray above the 12V socket.
Four three-point seatbelts are standard across the Picanto range (a two-point belt is provided for the rear middle passenger). The base Picanto has a driver's side airbag, the top-spec adds to the latter a passenger side airbag.
Children will have safer travels with the Picanto EX's booster seat anchors, and the child locks on the rear doors of both Picanto cars.
Other safety features exclusive to the top model are anti-lock brakes, immobilizer, and keyless entry. The infotainment screen displays the image from the reversing camera.
Photos from Kia
Also read:
2021 Kia Picanto: The pros and cons
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