The 2024 Kia Picanto looks absolutely great, and it’s sad that we likely won’t get it
The Kia Picanto has already been taken out of the brand’s PH lineup. We have to admit that there’s a following for the pint-sized hatchback in the country, and as we now see the heavily redesigned and absolute-looker of a 2024 model, it makes us quite sad that we won’t be getting it. Here’s what we’re missing out on.
2024 Kia Picanto revealed in South Korea
Photo: Kia
Named the “Morning” in South Korea, the 2024 Picanto has taken on major changes both inside and out.
Its exterior, specifically the front end, adopts a similar look to that of its big SUV brother, the EV9, with its vertically-oriented headlight assemblies. That said, the front bumper and fenders had to be resculpted as well, and it now looks wider and dare we say it, more aggressive, despite its minuscule proportions.
The rear bumper also got a redesign and takes on a lightbar spanning its width. Depending on the variant, it also gets two-tone alloy wheels with low-profile tires that help to give it a much sportier vibe.
Photo: Kia
Inside, it does retain a great deal from the outgoing version, but the center stack does get a new layout. A digital gauge cluster and a “floating” infotainment screen also make their way into the 2024 Picanto.
More features have been included in the new model, including navigation system-based adaptive cruise control, autonomous emergency braking, cyclist and pedestrian detection, high-beam assist, and even a remote start system.
Photo: Kia
Under the hood, power is provided by a 1.0-Liter, 3-cylinder petrol engine. It’s good for a stately 68 HP and 95 Nm of torque, enough to putter around the city and take a leisurely drive along the highways. The Picanto is available with only one transmission option, a 4-speed slushbox. Kia is very confident in declaring that it can do 15.1 Km/L, though, so that’s one big plus that this engine-transmission pairing has retained.
As it stands, we have no word if the absence of the Picanto in the local lineup is to simply make way for the arrival of the 2024 model. Until there’s confirmation, it will all remain wishful thinking. But seriously, this is one good-looking sub-compact, and with its fanbase, it’s pretty sure to have great sales potential in the PH.
Do you like what you see? Do you think Kia PH is just gearing up for an inevitable release? We hope so.
