Kia has released preliminary images of its all-new Picanto compact car ahead of its international debut at the Geneva Motor Show in March.
Much more attractive than its predecessor, the all-new Kia Picanto will again be offered as a five-door hatchback, however Kia says a sportier three-door variant will premiere – but only for sale in Europe.
Under the bonnet, the new Kia Picanto will see the first appearance of four new engines for Kia – all in 1.0-litre and 1.2-litre capacity but in petrol, LPG bi-fuel and flex-fuel variants.
Car Australia discussed the Picanto with Kia Australia executives late last year at the launch of Cerato hatchback and while everyone agreed about the attributes of this global compact car (primarily targeted at Europe), currently the local Kia operation has gone down the road with the Rio hatchback and sedan.
“While there are no immediate plans to bring Picanto to Australia we have been and will continue to look at opportunities in areas in which we do not currently compete,” explained Kia Australia boss Tony Barlow. “The Picanto now has the advantage of being an all-new car and if its makes sense as a business case then it is certainly not off the agenda.”
