Currently reading: Kia's tweaked Picanto goes testing

Kia's tweaked Picanto goes testing

Kia's bid for European domination shows no sign of abating - we've been wowed by the new C'eed and here's the successor to the highly-rated Picanto getting ready for a 2007 launch.The new model is designed as a facelift instead of an overhaul. It certainly appears to be building on the cute styling of its predecessor - a car that Kia targeted directly at the female buyer in a clever advertising campaign. Sources suggest that the next Picanto will get reworked versions of the current 1.0- and 1.1-litre four-cylinder petrol engines, producing 61bhp and 65bhp respectively. But there are also rumours of a 97bhp mini-GTI version, too.

No word yet on when the new car will hit showrooms, but late 2007 seems likely - we expect the car to break cover officially next summer, with a 'hands-on' launch at next September's Frankfurt motor show.

Join our WhatsApp community and be the first to read about the latest news and reviews wowing the car world. Our community is the best, easiest and most direct place to tap into the minds of Autocar, and if you join you’ll also be treated to unique WhatsApp content. You can leave at any time after joining - check our full privacy policy here.

Add a comment…