Kia Picanto 1.1 SE 5d (2004/54) Owner Review
Want to know everything there is to know about this car?
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Economy
Value
Build and equipment levels can't be beaten by any other car below £7000.
Costs
Can't comment on parts yet but fuel economy is 47mpg on a new petrol engine (and getting better).
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On the road
Driving
It's no Ford Ka but the Picanto betters the Seat Arosa's balance of handling and ride easily. Steering is well weighted but short on feedback. Brakes are powerful, if a little snatchy.
Performance
It's a 900kg city car with a 1.1 engine so it's no pocket rocket. Notwithstanding those limitations, the Picanto feels almost as peppy as a 1.2 Fiat Panda.
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Living with it
Reliability
Too early to comment fully. The only problem to date has been squeaking rear brakes when cold.
Image
It might be handicapped by the poor overall quality of its older brothers in the range, but the Picanto is a quantum leap forward for Kia in terms of styling, packaging and drivability. And that grille does grow on you...
Comfort
Firm, supportive seats and quality trim. Good driving position with footrest and a well designed, clean dash - but the indicator stalk is on the wrong side. If this is your second car, this oversight might drive you up the wall.
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Security and Service
Security
Has an alarm, immobiliser and remote locking but poor positioning of the remote button on the side of the key means that it is easy to activate or deactivate the system accidentally.
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Problems and Ownership
Problems
Engine
Other
Rear brakes squeal when cold.
Ownership
Did you buy the car new?
New
Would you buy the same model again?
Yes
Did you buy from the same manufacturer again?
Yes