Driving Kia’s updated Picanto five-door hatchback, with revised exterior styling, more technology and a lot more safety features. Now just two models, the Kia Picanto Sport and GT-Line – both feature carryover 1.25-litre non-turbo four- cylinder petrol engines. The more potent 1.0-litre turbo GT dropped from the range. Once our most affordable car the entry Picanto Sport now starts $1800 dearer at $20,690 drive-away in five speed manual, four-speed automatic adding $1,000. This small hatch now features the face inspired by Kia’s impressive new EV9 electric SUV, plus revised bumpers, a refreshed interior, and the standard fitment of alloy wheels. The good news, a big lift in active safety technology with lane keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert and driver attention alert – but such welcome features account for the lift in price. However, Kia Australia suggests the addition of these features reinforces its suitability for young drivers. I tested the GT-line manual at $22,490 drive-away which also gains LED headlights and taillights, 16-inch alloy wheels, a flat bottom steering wheel, synthetic leather trim, a rear USB port and heated side mirrors. Of course, the big selling point at this end of the market – a seven-year/unlimited kilometre warranty – Drive details next segment.

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