The Kia Picanto is one of the brand’s important models. In the Philippines, it was one of the first nameplates that brought popularity to the subcompact hatchback segment. Recently, images of what seemed like the updated Kia Picanto have been circulating online. The leaked images show the Kia subcompact hatchback sporting major updates in the front fascia and rear end, as well as some interior updates.
In a report by Autocar UK, the leaked images show the Kia Picanto featuring a new front end design that has taken inspiration from the Korean automaker’s full electric SUV, the EV9. The leaked images that were first posted by Autospy reveal that the updated Picanto adopted the brand’s ‘Opposites United’ design language used in the EV6 which recently made its Philippine arrival.
The new design cue is evident with the upcoming Kia Picanto’s ‘Tiger Nose’ front grill, vertical LED headlights that feature EV9-inspired daytime-running lights and, for the rear, an LED taillight bar. The rear hatch handle was also moved to under the rear light bar giving a clear rear hatch look. Rear shot also shows a new rear bumper diffuser design.
The image that has been going around the internet is of a Kia Picanto GT Line, a top-of-the-line variant Picanto that features sportier trim thus the rear diffuser. The GT Line Picanto is powered by a 1.0-liter inline-three turbocharged engine as opposed with the 1.2-liter inline-four engine found in the Philippine market Picanto.
Along with the leaked photos are a peek into the upcoming Picanto’s interior which also shows subtle updates. Though a feature that might only come in the GT Line variant, one of the notable interior updates is the instrument panel that is now fully digital.
Though no information yet if there would be new engine options for the upcoming new Kia Picanto, with Kia’s announcement of being an electric-only brand by 2035 in Europe, the Autocar UK report suggests that a mild-hybrid technology could be offered with the updated Kia subcompact hatchback.
As per reports, the updated Kia Picanto is expected to be launched in markets overseas in the coming weeks.
