2011 Kia Picanto Review
Price
from: RM43,199
to: RM45,447
Installment
from: RM412/mth
to: RM433/mth
2011 Kia Picanto at a glance
The 2011 Kia Picanto makes a fine case as a city runabout that is cheerful, competent and cheap to run. But against Proton and Perodua rivals, the 2011 Kia Picanto is priced out of contention—not cheap enough to attract attention.
2011 Kia Picanto quick specs
| Body Style | Hatchback |
| Class | Supermini |
| Assembled | - |
| Engine Range | - |
| Fuel Options | - |
| Seating Capacity | 5 |
2011 Kia Picanto ratings (overall rating : 3.5/5.0)
| Styling | |
| Handling | |
| Comfort | |
| Quality + Reliability | |
| Performance |
| Roominess | |
| Running Costs | |
| Value for Money | |
| Equipment | |
| Environment |
Styling
Competing in the supermini segment does not necessitate a dull, careless design—take the 2011 Kia Picanto for example: it is certainly pleasing, cheerful and some might even say cute. The cabin is reasonably well-designed, keeping the dashboard neat and simple.
Handling
The 2011 Kia Picanto provides a safe, painless driving experience, performing competently as a city car. The light controls coupled with the Kia Picanto's compact dimensions means city driving is nice and easy. But while the 2011 Kia Picanto takes on corners with minimal fuss, there is little fun to be had, no thanks to the modest grip levels, fair bit of body roll and feel-lacking steering.
Comfort
The 2011 Kia Picanto does not ride with the kind of composure class-leaders enjoy—urban road irregularities are transmitted into the cabin, while highway dips bring about too much vertical motion. Cabin refinement is on par with many rivals; engine, wind and road noise are audible but not intrusive at cruising speeds, but road noise can be intrusive on particularly rough surfaces. Ergonomics are good with everything within reach. But the tilt-only steering column and limited driver's seat adjustments mean a cramped driving position for taller drivers.
Quality + Reliability
Considering the asking price and what rivals are offering, there is little to complain about the 2011 Kia Picanto's cabin quality. Yes, the plastics used are less than appealing—mostly are of the shiny, hard variety, but that they feel tough and durable is without doubt. The same can be said about the cabin assembly, which seems sturdy enough to withstand the rigours of everyday use. Kia is well-known for reliability and the Picanto should present little, if any, mechanical problems.
Performance
The 2011 Kia Picanto is driven by a 1.1-litre engine mated to a four-speed automatic gearbox. With 64 bhp and 98 Nm, the engine performance can at best be described as adequate. The 1.1-litre provides decent urge for start-stop city driving, but needs to be revved hard to reach higher speeds. The engine note certainly makes itself heard under hard acceleration, but is not as harsh as in certain rivals. The automatic gearbox goes about its job rather smoothly, too.
Roominess
The 2011 Kia Picanto has class-competitive room at the front and rear. Headroom is not an issue, and neither is the front legroom. Rear legroom is not great but comparable to what rivals offer. The well-shaped boot is however small in volume, so it is a good thing the rear seats can fold for more loading space.
Running Costs
The frugal 1.1-litre engine returns an excellent 17.2 km/litre. Servicing and repairs should be affordable, too. The 2011 Kia Picanto may not be the most desirable car out there, but being a Kia, a brand noted for reliability, a crucial consideration for used cars, the Picanto should be able to fetch above-class average resale prices.
Value for Money
The 2011 Kia Picanto is a thoroughly competent city car that continues to make a fine case for itself, so as long as it spends most of its time in the city and less on highways. The problem lies with the 2011 Kia Picanto's pricing, which brings established cars such as the Proton Saga and Perodua Myvi into the picture, making the Kia Picanto's originally compelling case seem mediocre.
Equipment
LS comes with standard equipments including 14" steel wheels with full cover, air conditioner, radio/CD player with 2 speakers, childproof rear door locks, front power windows and central door lock. GS adds items such as 14" alloy wheels, keyless entry system, reverse sensor and fog lamps. NOVUS package further adds body kit with rear spoiler, leather seats, door mirrors with side repeater, Naza cool tint and rear speakers.
Environment
The low carbon dioxide emissions of 137 grams/km and the excellent fuel economy of 17.2 km/litre combine to make the 2011 Kia Picanto one of the cleanest and most efficient car on Malaysian roads. Certain rivals are even better on both counts, but in the absolute sense, the 2011 Kia Picanto deserves a place on the “green” list.
Live Life Drive Verdict
Cheerful looks
Competent as a city car
Low running costs
Ride composure could be better
Engine needs working hard
Cheap but not cheap enough
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