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Kia adds top spec Picanto auto model in SA


Kia Picanto 1.2 smart now available with automatic transmission
Feature-packed smart derivative gains even more convenience

Johannesburg – Kia is expanding the Kia Picanto range with the introduction of the 1.2 Smart Auto. The range-topping Picanto model has thus far only been available with a five-speed manual transmission.

Much loved car

With more than 700 units sold every month since its launch a mere six months ago, the Kia Picanto is without a doubt one of the most-loved city cars currently available in South Africa.

Now in its third generation, the latest Picanto’s comes with a range of 11 exterior colours – from classic white to vibrant lime green metallic.

Image: Motorpress

The range-topping Picanto smart range’s notably high specification level has also seen many new customers join the Kia family as the trend of buying down continues. A combination of compact dimensions, smart styling and smart features have convinced these customers that the Picanto is the perfect companion for every day urban driving.

With everything from two-tone leather upholstery to Apple CarPlay included as standard, comfort and convenience is covered.

And while the compact dimensions go far to ease driving in congested traffic situations, it also makes parking a breeze – especially because of the rear park assist system that incorporates a reverse camera with dynamic guidelines, displayed on a large, 7-inch colour touchscreen, all included as standard on the Picanto smart.

The Picanto 1.2 smart Automatic is powered by a four-cylinder 1.25-litre MPI engine that produces peak power of 61kW, and 122Nm of torque. Mated to KIA’s well-known four-speed automatic transmission, the combination ensures high levels of fuel efficiency to keep running costs low.

For its application in the new Picanto, KIA engineers have optimised the valve timing of the engine’s dual CVVT (continuously-variable valve timing) system, and a new cooling system with shut-off valve that reduces the time it takes the engine to warm-up from a cold start.

Low-friction coated piston rings also help to reduce cylinder friction for greater efficiency.

Image: Motorpress

The KIA Picanto 1.2 smart Automatic retails for R212 495, inclusive of KIA’s class-leading Unlimited kilometer, 5-year warranty, inclusive of 3-years / Unlimited Kilometres Roadside Assistance, as standard. A service plan is available as an option through KIA Financial Services. Pricing for the Picanto range is as follows:

Picanto 1.0 start Manual                  R 137 995
Picanto 1.0 street Manual                R 152 995
Picanto 1.0 style Manual                  R 162 995
Picanto 1.0 style Auto                      R 175 995
Picanto 1.0 smart Manual                 R 183 495
Picanto 1.2 start Manual                  R 153 995
Picanto 1.2 start Auto                      R 166 995
Picanto 1.2 streetManual               R 168 995
Picanto 1.2 style Manual                  R 179 495
Picanto 1.2 style Auto                      R 192 495
Picanto 1.2 smart Manual                 R 199 495
Picanto 1.2 smart Auto                   R 212 495

David Sieff, Marketing Director, Kia Motors South Africa said: “The introduction of an automatic version of the Picanto 1.2 smart is a direct result of market feedback.

"With urban congestion only getting worse, many customers are realising just how perfect the Picanto is for the daily commute to work. Our research among both current and prospective owners have confirmed this, and we’re confident that the addition of an automatic derivative of the Picanto 1.2 smart will cement the Picanto’s position as a customer favourite.”

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