Following the introduction of the KIA Picanto 1.0 LS in October 2015, KIA Motors South Africa has expanded its Picanto offering with a 1.2-litre LS model to fill the gap between the 1.0 LS and 1.0 LX models.
The new Picanto is positioned just above the entry-level Picanto 1.0 LS and intends to remain a fine example of an affordable car that doesn't compromise on quality.
Specs
Visually, the Picanto 1.2 LS is identical to the Picanto 1.0 LS, offering customers colour-coded bumpers at the front and rear, as well as colour-coded door handles and side mirrors and 14-inch steel wheels shod with 165/60 R14 tyres and full wheel covers. Inside, the LS models feature air-conditioning, tilt-adjustable steering, a trip computer, height adjustable head rests, 60:40 split rear folding seats and a convenient luggage floor box. While the Picanto LS is not fitted with a standard radio, two front speakers and an Aux/USB connection is included and wired to work with an aftermarket radio unit.
The new KIA Picanto 1.2 LS shares its powertrain and five-speed manual transmission with the Picanto EX, with the efficient four-cylinder, 1,2-litre Kappa MPI engine producing 65 kW of power at 6,000 r/min and 120 Nm of torque at 4,000 r/min. The engine features DOHC, dual CVVT (continuously variable valve timing), a cast aluminium block, off-set crankshaft, maintenance-free long-life timing chain and low friction ‘beehive’ valve springs, which aids reduced tailpipe emissions and increased fuel efficiency.
The car also features a Shift Indicator Light (manual transmission models), which assists drivers in changing gears in such a way as to optimise fuel efficiency. The new Picanto 1.2 LS is also available with an optional automatic transmission (not available on 1.0 LS models).
Safety remains a focus due to the greater percentage of high-strength steel used in the construction of the Picanto’s bodyshell, with greater rigidity achieved through ring-shaped reinforcing loops within the B- and C-pillars, across the floor pan and roof, and additional bracing at the front between the cowl and suspension towers. A driver’s airbag and ISOFIX child seat anchors remain standard.
All models ship as standard with KIA’s new five-year/unlimited km warranty and five-year/unlimited km roadside assistance.
Pricing
The KIA Picanto range is available in 10 exciting colours and comprises the following derivatives:
• KIA Picanto 1.0 LS Manual - R129,995
• KIA Picanto 1.2 LS Manual - R139,995
• KIA Picanto 1.2 LS Automatic - R152,995
• KIA Picanto 1.0 LX Manual - R159,995
• KIA Picanto 1.0 LX Automatic - R172,995
• KIA Picanto 1.2 EX Manual - R178,995
• KIA Picanto 1.2 EX Automatic - R191,995
A two-year/45,000km service plan is available across the range at an additional cost, while 1.2 EX models can be specified with an optional sunroof for an additional R7,500.
