Kia crosses the line with safest Picanto derivative yet. Meet the new X-Line

Kia’s “evergreen” Picanto has undergone a subtle mid-life refresh to emerge as the all-new Picanto X-Line — hallmarked by modern and distinctive crossover styling.

Kia announced the release of the updated model this week via Motorpress, along with details of its new body lines, which include rear-end updates and the redesign of Kia’s “tiger nose” front end and other specifications.

X-Line replaces SMART Picanto

Placing a premium on the X-line’s safety credentials, the South Korean automaker said the X-Line would replace the SMART derivative in the Picanto range.

“The Picanto is a mainstay in the Kia product-line up and has for many years been recognized by industry experts and members of the press alike as one of the best cars you can buy in the entry-level A-segment,” said Kia South Africa sales director Stephen Crosse.

“The introduction of the new X-Line derivative sees Picanto gain an adventurous spirit perfect for those who believe in seizing the day and sharing experiences beyond their daily lives. It’s the perfect car for here, there and anywhere.”

Redesigned ‘tiger-nose’

The new Picanto X-Line features a series of bespoke design details that make it stand out from its other siblings in the Kia stable.

At the front, a redesigned radiator grille – a new interpretation of Kia’s well-known “tiger nose” – and aggressive front bumper gives the X-Line a sporty stance, perfectly augmented by its eye-catching LED headlights.

At the rear, a bespoke and completely redesigned rear bumper completes the picture, with faux skid-plate detailing and full LED rear lights ensuring it looks the part from all angles.

Crossover-inspired cladding, mud guards and 15-inch alloy wheels gives X-Line a true ‘Go There’ stance.

Customers have a choice of 10 exterior colours, and an optional sunroof is available on special order.

Creature comforts

The Picanto X-Line comes standard with all the creature comforts you can think of.

Replacing the SMART derivative in the Picanto range, X-Line features a vast array of specification and features.

This includes two-tone artificial leather upholstery and a new eight-inch colour touchscreen infotainment system, allowing for the safety and convenience of screen mirroring services such as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

The system also incorporates a reverse camera with dynamic guidelines.

Safety through strength

The Picanto remains the safest A-segment vehicle Kia has ever built, with 44% of its body shell cast in Advanced High-strength Steel (AHSS).

This super-strong steel has been used specifically to reinforce the Picanto’s floor pan, roof rails, A- and B-pillars, and engine bay, strengthening the core structure of the car.

Overall, Kia SA says, 67 metres of joins throughout the body structure is also reinforced with structural adhesive, improving the Picanto’s torsional stiffness by 32% over its predecessor.

“Various safety tests have proven that the Picanto’s expertly engineered safety shell makes it one of the safest cars you can buy in its segment,” said Crosse.

“With ABS, ISOFIX, Datadot and dual front airbags across the range, Picanto offers superb safety standards.”

Picanto retains its power plants

Kia’s well-loved 1.0 MPI and 1.25 MPI engines remain on duty in the Picanto range, with the new X-Line derivative only offered with the 1.25-litre engine.

The fuel-efficient 1.0 MPI three-cylinder engine produces 49kW at 5 500 r/min and 96Nm torque, while the four-cylinder 1.25-litre engine develops 61kW of power and 122Nm of torque.

Customers have a choice between a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission.

Apart from the Picanto X-Line, Kia has also introduced subtle revisions to the remainder of the Picanto range. While there are no exterior design updates, the range specification has been revisited in order to ensure that customers get the value for money that Kia is renowned for.

The Picanto START retains its 13-inch steel wheels with stylish wheel covers.

The Kia Picanto has always been ahead of the pack with its amazing looks and incredible build quality. With its crossover styling, high-tech features and “Go There” attitude, the new X-Line brings a fresh spirit of adventure to the compact segment.

Pricing

Model                                    Price incl. VAT

Picanto 1.0 Manual START	R187 995
Picanto 1.0 Automatic START	R201 995
Picanto 1.0 Manual STREET	R201 995
Picanto 1.0 Automatic STREET	R215 995
Picanto 1.0 Manual STREET	R211 995
Picanto 1.0 Automatic STYLE	R225 995
Picanto 1.2 Manual STYLE	R210 995
Picanto 1.2 Automatic STYLE	R224 995
Picanto 1.2 Manual STYLE	R220 995
Picanto 1.2 Automatic STYLE	R234 995
Picanto 1.2 Manual X-Line	R237 995
Picanto 1.2 Automatic X-Line	R251 995
Picanto 1.0 Manual Runner	R207 995

All Picanto models ship as standard with KIA’s industry-leading Unlimited Kilometre, 5-year warranty (inclusive of Roadside Assistance), as well as a prepaid 2-year / 30,000km service plan.

The 2021 KIA Picanto range is on sale now.