Not very long until the launch of the new Kia
Picanto, it seems – distributor Naza Kia has opened a new teaser website for
the car, and while it doesn’t specifically mention the name of the “compact”
model, the sole image of the headlight confirms that we’re talking about the
next-generation A-segment hatch.
Preliminary specifications of the new JA model have
also been listed, and these include safety equipment such as six airbags, ABS,
stability control and hill-start assist. That’s no surprise, given that the
outgoing TA model already had these items as standard.
Also included are projector headlights with LED
daytime running lights, LED tail lights and keyless entry, again all fitted to
its predecessor. What is new is the seven-inch infotainment touchscreen, with
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity and a reverse camera with dynamic
guidelines.
Although there were no mention of the powertrain on
offer, expect the Picanto to soldier on with the same 1.25 litre four-cylinder
as before – making 87 PS at 6,000 rpm and 122 Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm – mated
to a four-speed automatic transmission. A five-speed manual was briefly offered
on the previous model.
Naza Kia announced that the car will be launched in the first quarter of next
year, with sales advisors present hinting of a sub-RM 60,000 price tag. That
would be more or less identical to the previous model, which retailed at
RM 61,888 on-the-road with insurance.