2024 Kia Picanto (Facelift): Upgraded Safety, New Style at a Steeper Price

The 2024 Kia Picanto, previously known as Australia's most affordable car, has received a comprehensive update, pushing its starting price above the coveted sub-$20,000 drive-away mark.

The revised pricing begins at $17,890 for the Sport manual model, up $1600 from the 2023 S manual, while the drive-away price starts at $20,690, marking an $1800 increase.

Despite the price hike, the 2024 Picanto brings a host of new features and improvements, particularly in safety.

The base Sport model now includes active blind-spot assist, lane-keep assist, and rear cross-traffic alert, alongside the existing autonomous emergency braking (AEB) system. These enhancements are particularly significant in the car’s segment, where advanced safety features are not always standard.

Alongside the safety upgrades, the Picanto sees aesthetic and functional improvements. New additions include power-folding exterior mirrors, LED rear fog lights, and a leatherette-wrapped steering wheel and shifter. The GT-Line models get an additional boost with LED headlights and refreshed design elements.

Under the hood, the Picanto retains its naturally aspirated 1.25-litre four-cylinder engine, with outputs standing at 62kW of power and 122Nm of torque. However, there's a slight increase in fuel consumption, with manual models now using 5.4L/100km and auto models consuming 6L/100km.

In terms of design, the Picanto introduces new colors such as Adventurous Green and Sporty Blue, replacing Honey Bee Yellow and Pop Orange. These changes are complemented by a refreshed design inspired by Kia's EV9 electric SUV, adding a modern touch to the Picanto's appearance.

The updates to the Picanto reflect a broader trend in the automotive industry, where manufacturers are increasingly focusing on enhancing safety features and updating designs, even in budget-friendly segments. With these changes, the Picanto positions itself as an attractive option for buyers seeking a blend of affordability, safety, and style.

As the automotive landscape continues to evolve with heightened safety standards and changing consumer expectations, the 2024 Picanto’s enhancements make it a compelling choice. Full details of the updated model are expected to be released by Kia in the coming weeks.

As we anticipate more information on the revamped Kia Picanto, we encourage our readers to join the conversation.

What are your thoughts on the balance between the Picanto's price increase and its added features? Share your views in the comments below.

Price and Specs of facelifted 2024 Kia Picanto:

Base Model: Sport Manual

Price: $17,890 (plus on-road costs); $20,690 (drive-away)

Engine: 1.25-litre, four-cylinder

Power and Torque: 62kW, 122Nm

Fuel Economy: 5.4L/100km (Manual)

Safety:

• Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB)
• Lane-keep assist (New)
• Active blind-spot assist (New)
• Rear cross-traffic alert (New)

Exterior:

• Power-folding exterior mirrors (New)
• LED rear fog lights (New)

Interior:

• Leatherette-wrapped steering wheel and shifter (New)

Other Features:

• 14-inch alloy wheels (New, replacing steel wheels with hubcaps)
• Dusk-sensing halogen headlights
• 8.0-inch infotainment touchscreen
• Air conditioning
• Cloth seat upholstery
• Six airbags

GT-Line (Higher Grade)

Price: $19,690 (plus on-road costs); $22,490 (drive-away for manual)

Additional to Sport:

• LED headlights (New)
• New-design 16-inch alloy wheels (New)
• GT-Line body styling
• Heated side mirrors
• Synthetic leather-look seat trim with contrasting accents
• Sliding front-centre armrest
• Possibly additional unique features and safety systems not yet detailed

Differences and Highlights in Higher Grades

• GT-Line adds premium features like LED headlights, larger alloy wheels, and enhanced interior and exterior styling.
• Advanced safety features like blind-spot assist and rear cross-traffic alert are new across all grades, setting a higher standard for the segment.
• LED headlights and body styling of the GT-Line model distinguish it visually and functionally from the base Sport model.

Price Summary

• Sport Manual: $17,890 (plus on-road costs); $20,690 (drive-away)
• Sport Automatic: $19,490 (plus on-road costs); $21,690 (drive-away)
• GT-Line Manual: $19,690 (plus on-road costs); $22,490 (drive-away)
• GT-Line Automatic: $21,290 (plus on-road costs); $23,490 (drive-away)