The new engine is available as an upgrade for cars in GT-Line and GT-Line S trims, and sits above the existing naturally aspirated engines – a 1.0-litre three-cylinder and 1.25-litre four-cylinder with 67 bhp and 84 bhp respectively.
The new engine is capable of 0-60 mph in 9.8 seconds and has a top speed of 112 mph. The Picanto is capable of returning impressive fuel economy figures though – with a combined figure of 55.4 mpg and CO2 emissions of 117 g/km. It’s fully compliant with Euro 6d emissions regulations, too.
This fresh unit does come at a price, as it’s only available on the top-end GT-Line and GT-Line S trims. Both add dynamic details to the Picanto, including a sports body kit, red highlights on the grille, air intakes and side sills, a rear diffuser and twin exhaust pipes.
S models add in extra luxury in the form of an electric sunroof, climate control, heated front seats, a wireless phone charger and sat-nav with TomTom connected services.
In the best Kia tradition, the Picanto comes with an industry-leading seven-year warranty, compared with just three years on most rivals.
The GT-Line model equipped with the new engine starts at £13,320 in the UK, while GT-Line S models come in from £14,720. The challenge for the Picanto is that this price puts it in line with the significantly more powerful Volkswagen up! GTI, which starts from £13,255.
