Latest news with #Picanto
The Advertiser
08-07-2025
- Automotive
- The Advertiser
Cut-price electric Kia Picanto replacement coming to take on BYD Seagull
Kia has confirmed it's planning an affordable city-sized electric car – even smaller than the 2026 Kia EV2 already announced – and much would be a direct competitor to the BYD Seagull, Dacia Spring and Fiat 500e. Speaking to UK publication Autocar, Kia president and CEO Ho Sung Song said a cheaper, smaller electric city car, which could be called the EV1, was "homework" for the company's product developers, confirming such a car was "one area we are studying and developing". Mr Song also said affordable, city-sized cars would remain an important part of the brand's lineup as European buyers move towards EVs. Kia technically already offers a city-sized EV – the Picanto-based Ray – but this tall, boxy model is exclusive to Korea. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. The new city EV would take over from Kia's entry-level petrol-powered Picanto – currently Australia's cheapest new car – which was significantly updated in 2023 and still sells strongly in Europe. With a replacement still as far off as 2028-2029, the Picanto's successor could well ditch the current version's 1.2-litre four-cylinder petrol engine to become a battery-electric city hatch. It would face the BYD Seagull, set to go on sale in the United Kingdom later this year as the Dolphin Surf, at less than £20,000 ($41,874). The Seagull is under consideration for Australian showrooms and could become the cheapest EV offered here, given it would sit below the current price leader – the BYD Dolphin electric hatch at $29,990 drive-away. Even then, the current petrol Picanto could remain on sale alongside a newer, electric offering in Kia showrooms. Other brands have also planned this approach, such as Volkswagen, which intends to sell the petrol-powered Golf alongside battery-electric versions well into next decade. Kia has been prolific in rolling out new EVs. Its smallest, the funky EV2 five-door SUV, is due on sale overseas in 2026 but is unlikely to be offered here. The Kia EV4 electric sedan – a Tesla Model 3 rival – is scheduled to arrive in Australia in the last quarter (October-December) of 2025, joining the EV3, EV5, EV6 and EV9 electric Kias currently in Australian showrooms. The EV5 has been Kia Australia's most popular EV so far in 2025 and the fourth-most popular EV overall, with 2765 delivered to the end of June – putting it behind the third-place Model 3 with the MG 4 behind in fifth. Mr Song said Europe will "drive volume from a full EV lineup" because of a "strong trend" towards electric cars – yet internal combustion engines will remain important in emerging markets lacking electric-charging infrastructure. It will also enable Kia to maintain a flexible approach to respond to market trends when necessary. "The final destination in Europe is EVs, which is why I want to be a very strong EV player in Europe… but if we look at worldwide demand we should have alternative powertrains, like hybrids, plug-in [hybrids] and EREVs [extended-range electric vehicles]," he said. Sales of hybrids in Australia in the first six months of 2025 increased 14.9 per cent, following a 76 per cent jump in popularity in 2024, while key markets – including China and the United States – have also seen significant hybrid growth. MORE: Everything BYD Content originally sourced from: Kia has confirmed it's planning an affordable city-sized electric car – even smaller than the 2026 Kia EV2 already announced – and much would be a direct competitor to the BYD Seagull, Dacia Spring and Fiat 500e. Speaking to UK publication Autocar, Kia president and CEO Ho Sung Song said a cheaper, smaller electric city car, which could be called the EV1, was "homework" for the company's product developers, confirming such a car was "one area we are studying and developing". Mr Song also said affordable, city-sized cars would remain an important part of the brand's lineup as European buyers move towards EVs. Kia technically already offers a city-sized EV – the Picanto-based Ray – but this tall, boxy model is exclusive to Korea. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. The new city EV would take over from Kia's entry-level petrol-powered Picanto – currently Australia's cheapest new car – which was significantly updated in 2023 and still sells strongly in Europe. With a replacement still as far off as 2028-2029, the Picanto's successor could well ditch the current version's 1.2-litre four-cylinder petrol engine to become a battery-electric city hatch. It would face the BYD Seagull, set to go on sale in the United Kingdom later this year as the Dolphin Surf, at less than £20,000 ($41,874). The Seagull is under consideration for Australian showrooms and could become the cheapest EV offered here, given it would sit below the current price leader – the BYD Dolphin electric hatch at $29,990 drive-away. Even then, the current petrol Picanto could remain on sale alongside a newer, electric offering in Kia showrooms. Other brands have also planned this approach, such as Volkswagen, which intends to sell the petrol-powered Golf alongside battery-electric versions well into next decade. Kia has been prolific in rolling out new EVs. Its smallest, the funky EV2 five-door SUV, is due on sale overseas in 2026 but is unlikely to be offered here. The Kia EV4 electric sedan – a Tesla Model 3 rival – is scheduled to arrive in Australia in the last quarter (October-December) of 2025, joining the EV3, EV5, EV6 and EV9 electric Kias currently in Australian showrooms. The EV5 has been Kia Australia's most popular EV so far in 2025 and the fourth-most popular EV overall, with 2765 delivered to the end of June – putting it behind the third-place Model 3 with the MG 4 behind in fifth. Mr Song said Europe will "drive volume from a full EV lineup" because of a "strong trend" towards electric cars – yet internal combustion engines will remain important in emerging markets lacking electric-charging infrastructure. It will also enable Kia to maintain a flexible approach to respond to market trends when necessary. "The final destination in Europe is EVs, which is why I want to be a very strong EV player in Europe… but if we look at worldwide demand we should have alternative powertrains, like hybrids, plug-in [hybrids] and EREVs [extended-range electric vehicles]," he said. Sales of hybrids in Australia in the first six months of 2025 increased 14.9 per cent, following a 76 per cent jump in popularity in 2024, while key markets – including China and the United States – have also seen significant hybrid growth. MORE: Everything BYD Content originally sourced from: Kia has confirmed it's planning an affordable city-sized electric car – even smaller than the 2026 Kia EV2 already announced – and much would be a direct competitor to the BYD Seagull, Dacia Spring and Fiat 500e. Speaking to UK publication Autocar, Kia president and CEO Ho Sung Song said a cheaper, smaller electric city car, which could be called the EV1, was "homework" for the company's product developers, confirming such a car was "one area we are studying and developing". Mr Song also said affordable, city-sized cars would remain an important part of the brand's lineup as European buyers move towards EVs. Kia technically already offers a city-sized EV – the Picanto-based Ray – but this tall, boxy model is exclusive to Korea. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. The new city EV would take over from Kia's entry-level petrol-powered Picanto – currently Australia's cheapest new car – which was significantly updated in 2023 and still sells strongly in Europe. With a replacement still as far off as 2028-2029, the Picanto's successor could well ditch the current version's 1.2-litre four-cylinder petrol engine to become a battery-electric city hatch. It would face the BYD Seagull, set to go on sale in the United Kingdom later this year as the Dolphin Surf, at less than £20,000 ($41,874). The Seagull is under consideration for Australian showrooms and could become the cheapest EV offered here, given it would sit below the current price leader – the BYD Dolphin electric hatch at $29,990 drive-away. Even then, the current petrol Picanto could remain on sale alongside a newer, electric offering in Kia showrooms. Other brands have also planned this approach, such as Volkswagen, which intends to sell the petrol-powered Golf alongside battery-electric versions well into next decade. Kia has been prolific in rolling out new EVs. Its smallest, the funky EV2 five-door SUV, is due on sale overseas in 2026 but is unlikely to be offered here. The Kia EV4 electric sedan – a Tesla Model 3 rival – is scheduled to arrive in Australia in the last quarter (October-December) of 2025, joining the EV3, EV5, EV6 and EV9 electric Kias currently in Australian showrooms. The EV5 has been Kia Australia's most popular EV so far in 2025 and the fourth-most popular EV overall, with 2765 delivered to the end of June – putting it behind the third-place Model 3 with the MG 4 behind in fifth. Mr Song said Europe will "drive volume from a full EV lineup" because of a "strong trend" towards electric cars – yet internal combustion engines will remain important in emerging markets lacking electric-charging infrastructure. It will also enable Kia to maintain a flexible approach to respond to market trends when necessary. "The final destination in Europe is EVs, which is why I want to be a very strong EV player in Europe… but if we look at worldwide demand we should have alternative powertrains, like hybrids, plug-in [hybrids] and EREVs [extended-range electric vehicles]," he said. Sales of hybrids in Australia in the first six months of 2025 increased 14.9 per cent, following a 76 per cent jump in popularity in 2024, while key markets – including China and the United States – have also seen significant hybrid growth. MORE: Everything BYD Content originally sourced from: Kia has confirmed it's planning an affordable city-sized electric car – even smaller than the 2026 Kia EV2 already announced – and much would be a direct competitor to the BYD Seagull, Dacia Spring and Fiat 500e. Speaking to UK publication Autocar, Kia president and CEO Ho Sung Song said a cheaper, smaller electric city car, which could be called the EV1, was "homework" for the company's product developers, confirming such a car was "one area we are studying and developing". Mr Song also said affordable, city-sized cars would remain an important part of the brand's lineup as European buyers move towards EVs. Kia technically already offers a city-sized EV – the Picanto-based Ray – but this tall, boxy model is exclusive to Korea. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. The new city EV would take over from Kia's entry-level petrol-powered Picanto – currently Australia's cheapest new car – which was significantly updated in 2023 and still sells strongly in Europe. With a replacement still as far off as 2028-2029, the Picanto's successor could well ditch the current version's 1.2-litre four-cylinder petrol engine to become a battery-electric city hatch. It would face the BYD Seagull, set to go on sale in the United Kingdom later this year as the Dolphin Surf, at less than £20,000 ($41,874). The Seagull is under consideration for Australian showrooms and could become the cheapest EV offered here, given it would sit below the current price leader – the BYD Dolphin electric hatch at $29,990 drive-away. Even then, the current petrol Picanto could remain on sale alongside a newer, electric offering in Kia showrooms. Other brands have also planned this approach, such as Volkswagen, which intends to sell the petrol-powered Golf alongside battery-electric versions well into next decade. Kia has been prolific in rolling out new EVs. Its smallest, the funky EV2 five-door SUV, is due on sale overseas in 2026 but is unlikely to be offered here. The Kia EV4 electric sedan – a Tesla Model 3 rival – is scheduled to arrive in Australia in the last quarter (October-December) of 2025, joining the EV3, EV5, EV6 and EV9 electric Kias currently in Australian showrooms. The EV5 has been Kia Australia's most popular EV so far in 2025 and the fourth-most popular EV overall, with 2765 delivered to the end of June – putting it behind the third-place Model 3 with the MG 4 behind in fifth. Mr Song said Europe will "drive volume from a full EV lineup" because of a "strong trend" towards electric cars – yet internal combustion engines will remain important in emerging markets lacking electric-charging infrastructure. It will also enable Kia to maintain a flexible approach to respond to market trends when necessary. "The final destination in Europe is EVs, which is why I want to be a very strong EV player in Europe… but if we look at worldwide demand we should have alternative powertrains, like hybrids, plug-in [hybrids] and EREVs [extended-range electric vehicles]," he said. Sales of hybrids in Australia in the first six months of 2025 increased 14.9 per cent, following a 76 per cent jump in popularity in 2024, while key markets – including China and the United States – have also seen significant hybrid growth. MORE: Everything BYD Content originally sourced from:
Bangkok Post
07-07-2025
- Automotive
- Bangkok Post
KIA LINES UP NEW EVs AS CEO COMMITS TO CITY CAR
The next wave of Kia EVs is being prepared for launch by the end of the decade, among them an entry-level model as well as a next-generation architecture that will underpin replacements for the likes of the EV6 and EV9. Kia's rollout of electric cars continues apace, with the current EV3, EV6 and EV9 being joined this year by the EV4 and EV5, followed by the EV2 in 2026. Now the firm's efforts are focused on what comes next. New range-extender EV technology is also in the works, alongside continued development of hybrids and even internal-combustion engined models as Kia plans to continue offering a whole range of vehicles that is now expanding beyond cars and into vans and pick-ups for the first time. SMALLER KIAS Kia president and CEO Ho Sung Song confirmed his commitment to entry- level models and keeping his cars affordable and accessible, and to that end suggested a baby Kia is deep into its development. Song said Kia was in no rush to replace the current Picanto city car, which is still selling well in Europe, and the strength of Kia's electric car range means the firm isn't under any imminent pressure from the CO2 regulations that have doomed other city cars on the market in recent years. The Picanto, heavily updated in 2023, would therefore remain on sale up until the point that Kia was able to create an entry-level electric city car for less than €25,000 (995,000 baht). The brand feels it is important to keep such an affordable entry-level model in its range. Song said the mooted entry-level EV was "homework" for Kia at the moment, and a sub-€25,000 model was "one area we are studying and developing". Given Song's comments, it seems inevitable that when the Picanto does reach the end of its life -- which is expected to be before the end of the decade -- it will be replaced by the entry-level EV rather than an ICE model. Yet there is a scenario in which the two models are sold alongside each other, depending on how CO2 rules develop. Other car makers have already taken this approach. Kia design director Karim Habib said the firm was looking at Japanese brand Muji for inspiration for its smaller cars. The clothing and homeware retailer focuses on simplicity and utility, and Kia was exploring how to "reduce things to their very essence and still have a desirability to them". Habib said this work also included customisation and "how you design something super-basic that you can customise or individualise for different types of customers". He added: "In our view, that's where it can be really interesting in a lower-end price bracket." SOFTWARE-DEFINED VEHICLES Kia is preparing to embrace SDVs and launch a new architecture for its larger models using the technology. SDVs move a car away from having a host of different subsystems to just a few core systems that are all centrally integrated. The approach allows for greater stability and reliability for the car. It is also easier to update and manage across multiple vehicles, because they all share the same "brain". Song said this would allow Kia to decouple hardware and software development and allow shorter development times. He added that development work on a new SDV architecture had been ongoing for some three years and a pilot project concept may be shown next year. That is a reference to the "SDV Pace Car" that Kia confirmed earlier this year and which is the development mule for this project. Following this timeline through to production would fit with Kia launching an EV6 replacement off this new 800V architecture. A second-generation EV9 should also be due by the end of the decade. Further benefits for future Kias from SDVs will be more personalised user interfaces inside customers' vehicles and "frequent upgrading of software to give them freshness for their vehicle", according to Song, who said it could help bring down the costs of cars because "our development cycle is shorter so the cost is much cheaper". Song added: "Because we are decoupling hardware and software, we can be more flexible making different kinds of vehicles based on the same platform." Kia will also introduce learnings from its new range of "PBV" vans into the development of its future cars, particularly around the integration of software and hardware. The PV5, Kia's first van, will be followed by a larger PV7 van in 2027 and a PV9 in 2029. FUTURE DESIGN Kia is already planning a new evolution for the design of its models, and Song said he recognises the importance of staying ahead and maintaining innovation in this area. He added: "Design is one of the highest preferences for our customers buying our cars, but today's design philosophy has already been in the market for five years. We continually think about how to renew it. "If we repeat again and again [with the same design], maybe customers will feel it is boring, so we have to think about how to renew vehicles. We will continue to study what can be improved and renewed for our customers."
Time of India
06-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Moses Sibiya, known as Lady Mo, dies at 33 in tragic crash; fans honour beloved South African influencer with heartfelt tributes
Fans across the globe are in shock after the sudden and tragic death of South African social media star and performer Moses 'Lady Mo' Sibiya. Known for his vibrant presence, comic flair, and magnetic stage energy, Lady Mo was just 33 years old when his life was cut short in a car crash. He had earned widespread love not only in South Africa but also internationally, especially for his emotional live singing at funerals, which became his signature and touched countless hearts online. News of his passing has left the internet in mourning, with tributes pouring in on social media. Tragic head-on collision claims Lady Mo's life Lady Mo died on Friday, July 4, 2025, in a fatal head-on collision near the MRTT intersection, just outside Mbombela in Mpumalanga, South Africa. He was reportedly driving a Kia Picanto when the vehicle collided with a minibus taxi. Emergency responders confirmed that he died on the scene. Five other occupants of the Picanto were injured and rushed to nearby hospitals, while the taxi driver remains in critical condition. According to officials from Emer-G-Med and the Mpumalanga Department of Community Safety, Security and Liaison, investigations are ongoing to determine the cause of the crash. The road was temporarily closed as emergency crews worked to assist the injured and clear the wreckage. Lady Mo is no more! An accident between a minibus taxi and a Kia Picanto which occured on the KaNyamazane road near the MRTT claimed the life of a socialite Moses Sibiya AKA Lady Mo on Friday, 4 July 2025 after being rushed to Rob Ferreira Hospital. #ThingsInAfrica Photo cred.… Fans mourn Lady Mo's tragic demise The internet has been flooded with tributes since the news of Lady Mo's death surfaced. Fans, entertainers, influencers, and everyday people from around the world have shared their shock and sorrow, remembering the joy he brought into their lives. From heartfelt TikTok videos to emotional posts on X and Instagram, the online community has united in grief. RIP fighter Lady Mo. ✊🏾 Bathong Moses aka Lady Mo🕊️💔😢May his soul rest in peace. One user wrote, 'News is circulating that social media sensation and beloved socialite Moses, popularly known as Lady Mo, has sadly passed away in a tragic car accident. He rose to fame for his heartfelt singing at funerals. May his soul rest in perfect peace.' News is circulating that social media sensation and beloved socialite Moses, popularly known as Lady Mo, has sadly passed away in a tragic car accident. He rose to fame for his heartfelt singing at funerals. May his soul rest in perfect peace. Another added, 'What a blow!!! He lived his life... Life is not about how long but how you lived. Rest In Perfect Peace, Lady Mo.' A third tribute read, 'When you put me in my final resting place, please locate someone who comes close to Fighter Lady Mo in singing this song. RIP Fighter Lady Mo.' His unique ability to comfort and entertain, often at the same time, has clearly left a lasting impression far beyond his local community. What A Blow!!!He lived his life... Life is not about how long but how you In Perfect Peace, Lady Mo Who was Lady Mo? Moses Sibiya, widely known as Lady Mo, was a standout figure in Mbombela's entertainment scene and quickly became a beloved digital icon. He built a loyal following through comic skits, viral dance trends, and unforgettable performances at events ranging from weddings and public ceremonies to funerals. But it was his emotional, heartfelt funeral singing that truly distinguished him often turning moments of grief into deeply memorable tributes. These performances, shared online, resonated across cultures and made Lady Mo a comforting presence for people he had never even met. Beyond his funeral singing, Lady Mo's infectious energy, bold fashion choices, and magnetic personality made him a favourite among content lovers. His recent single, Dumi Dumi Dumi, showcased his musical talent and hinted at a promising future in music. He was more than just a social media personality—he was a cultural icon in the making. Final farewell to a beloved entertainer Lady Mo's death at 33 has left a deep void in both the local creative community and the wider online world. Tributes continue to roll in, and fans are hoping for a memorial that honours the light and laughter he gave so generously. For many, he wasn't just someone they watched on their screens—he felt like a friend, a comforter, and a celebration of life. Rest in peace, Lady Mo. You lifted spirits in the darkest times—may you now rest in eternal light. To stay updated on the stories that are going viral, follow Indiatimes Trending.
The Advertiser
30-06-2025
- Automotive
- The Advertiser
CarExpert Choice winner: Best City Car
The Kia Picanto micro hatch has been named Australia's best city car in the inaugural 2025 CarExpert Choice Awards. It beat out the Mazda 2 light hatch and sedan and the MG 3 light hatch, which were finalists for the title. The Picanto is Australia's cheapest car, but it didn't win because of its low price alone. That sharp pricing goes hand-in-hand with a seven-year warranty, as well as a long list of standard safety equipment. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. Even the base Picanto Sport has active blind-spot and rear cross-traffic assist, systems which can apply the brakes if they detect an imminent collision. This is technology you won't find on some luxury cars costing thousands of dollars more, and it shows Kia cares about providing comprehensive safety equipment to even its most price-conscious consumers. The Picanto also has a handsome, user-friendly and well-packaged interior, and it's economical and comfortable to drive and very easy to park. All of these attributes make the Picanto a very compelling choice for a city car. To see all the CarExpert Choice winners, click here. MORE: Explore the Kia Picanto showroom Content originally sourced from: The Kia Picanto micro hatch has been named Australia's best city car in the inaugural 2025 CarExpert Choice Awards. It beat out the Mazda 2 light hatch and sedan and the MG 3 light hatch, which were finalists for the title. The Picanto is Australia's cheapest car, but it didn't win because of its low price alone. That sharp pricing goes hand-in-hand with a seven-year warranty, as well as a long list of standard safety equipment. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. Even the base Picanto Sport has active blind-spot and rear cross-traffic assist, systems which can apply the brakes if they detect an imminent collision. This is technology you won't find on some luxury cars costing thousands of dollars more, and it shows Kia cares about providing comprehensive safety equipment to even its most price-conscious consumers. The Picanto also has a handsome, user-friendly and well-packaged interior, and it's economical and comfortable to drive and very easy to park. All of these attributes make the Picanto a very compelling choice for a city car. To see all the CarExpert Choice winners, click here. MORE: Explore the Kia Picanto showroom Content originally sourced from: The Kia Picanto micro hatch has been named Australia's best city car in the inaugural 2025 CarExpert Choice Awards. It beat out the Mazda 2 light hatch and sedan and the MG 3 light hatch, which were finalists for the title. The Picanto is Australia's cheapest car, but it didn't win because of its low price alone. That sharp pricing goes hand-in-hand with a seven-year warranty, as well as a long list of standard safety equipment. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. Even the base Picanto Sport has active blind-spot and rear cross-traffic assist, systems which can apply the brakes if they detect an imminent collision. This is technology you won't find on some luxury cars costing thousands of dollars more, and it shows Kia cares about providing comprehensive safety equipment to even its most price-conscious consumers. The Picanto also has a handsome, user-friendly and well-packaged interior, and it's economical and comfortable to drive and very easy to park. All of these attributes make the Picanto a very compelling choice for a city car. To see all the CarExpert Choice winners, click here. MORE: Explore the Kia Picanto showroom Content originally sourced from: The Kia Picanto micro hatch has been named Australia's best city car in the inaugural 2025 CarExpert Choice Awards. It beat out the Mazda 2 light hatch and sedan and the MG 3 light hatch, which were finalists for the title. The Picanto is Australia's cheapest car, but it didn't win because of its low price alone. That sharp pricing goes hand-in-hand with a seven-year warranty, as well as a long list of standard safety equipment. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. Even the base Picanto Sport has active blind-spot and rear cross-traffic assist, systems which can apply the brakes if they detect an imminent collision. This is technology you won't find on some luxury cars costing thousands of dollars more, and it shows Kia cares about providing comprehensive safety equipment to even its most price-conscious consumers. The Picanto also has a handsome, user-friendly and well-packaged interior, and it's economical and comfortable to drive and very easy to park. All of these attributes make the Picanto a very compelling choice for a city car. To see all the CarExpert Choice winners, click here. MORE: Explore the Kia Picanto showroom Content originally sourced from:
Scotsman
21-06-2025
- Automotive
- Scotsman
Kia Picanto review: why this charming city car deserves a comeback
The latest facelift has given the Picanto some bold styling, but it's still a charming little car | Kia This article contains affiliate links. We may earn a small commission on items purchased through this article, but that does not affect our editorial judgement. Motoring writer Gareth Butterfield might be getting misty-eyed about the apparent end of the city car, but Kia's Picanto proves there's still magic in small, simple, petrol-powered motoring. Sign up to our daily newsletter – Regular news stories and round-ups from around Scotland direct to your inbox Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know with a Digital Subscription to The Scotsman, you can get unlimited access to the website including our premium content, as well as benefiting from fewer ads, loyalty rewards and much more. Learn More Sorry, there seem to be some issues. Please try again later. Submitting... For reasons I'll never really understand, the city car is dying. We're an overpopulated society bearing the brunt of sweeping urbanisation but we've seemingly fallen out of love with small cars. What's that all about? And by small cars, I don't mean Ford Fiestas and Vauxhall Corsas, that's another tragic tale to tell for another day, I mean really small cars, like the Volkswagen Up, the Smart ForTwo, and the Peugeot 108. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad They're the cars that gave the world cheap, frugal, easy personal transport in a crowded environment, and they're the cars that many of us first engaged a clutch in. The car I've been testing this week, then, the Kia Picanto, is part of a dying breed. I feel like I should be harvesting its DNA rather than taking it for a trip up the A38. But duty calls. In top GT-Line spec, the Picanto is surprisingly grown up and very well equipped | Kia And as much as it feels sad to be in what could be the last of the true city cars, I'm determined to stay chipper, because it's quite hard to feel sad when you're driving a Kia Picanto. Most models are powered by a peppy one-litre, three cylinder engine with 62bhp, or there's a fizzy 1.2-litre four cylinder, and both suit the car brilliantly. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Don't get me wrong, chasing a 0-60 time below 15 seconds is a trifle pointless, but you could happily dust off the old cliché we always used to apply to city cars, and refer to it as "nippy". And then there's the way it drives. In a motoring landscape that's being blighted by heavy EVs, or complex hybrids, there's a refreshing sense of mechanical charm to the Picanto. The interior is roomier than you'd expect, and everything is easy to live with | Kia Stirring the manual gearstick and throwing it into a corner is borderline nostalgic, and always fun. Sure, it's not fast, but most of us have forgotten the joy of driving a slow car in a spirited manner and reaping the rewards of feeling every response. The Picanto takes a B-road jaunt in its stride. It's a delight. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Of course, it's at its best in the city, as you'd imagine, and you'll be rewarded for your frugal choice of car with decent MPG, low emissions, and easy parking. But it's also remarkably civilised and grown-up inside, too. I tested a high-spec GT-Line S, which has more gadgets than a city car strictly should, but you've got all the safety kit you'd need in the urban sprawl, and some useful kit for helping long journeys pass by with minimal effort. All versions get a rather basic but decent enough touch-screen display | Kia Even basic versions, which arguably make more sense, get an eight-inch touchscreen as standard, as well as a decent digital instrument panel. There's also aircon and all-round electric windows, and you're only one trim level away from the joys of heated front seats and steering wheel, auto aircon, keyless go and wireless phone charging. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Price up a basic "2", and your starting point is around £16,000. A few years ago we'd baulk at that for a tiny car, but I'm afraid it's par for the course now. The top models can easily knock on the door of £20,000 and even I'd admit that's getting a bit silly, but you'd be surprised at how well equipped they are. And there aren't many premium small cars to choose from these days, if you still long for internal combustion. The rear seats are pretty roomy for a city car, and the boot is good too | Kia Kias still get a seven-year warranty, and given the scarcity of options in this segment, I'd hope the residuals would be fairly robust too. I park some seriously nice cars outside my house from time to time, but during my week in a Picanto my neighbour made a point of crossing the road to ask me all about it. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad He's unashamedly disinterested in cars generally, but the sight of a distinctive little city runabout piqued his interest. I'd like to think this served as an indication that there's life in city cars yet. I certainly hope so, because the Picanto was an absolute joy to live with. Selling your car? Here's the fastest way to get cash – and how it compares to rivals Thinking of selling your car this summer? It all starts with a valuation – and you can get one in under a minute with WeBuyAnyCar. With over 500 branches across the UK and same-day payment available, it's one of the quickest ways to find out what your vehicle is worth and get the cash if you're ready to sell. Used car prices have stayed surprisingly strong, especially for economical hatchbacks and SUVs. Whether you're upgrading for road trips or switching to a hybrid, a fast online quote can give you a solid starting point – even if you're still weighing up your options.
