Kia's popular, budget-beating entry level hatchback is now even easier on the pocket with the introduction of a cut-price, cut-spec LS derivative.
It costs R119 995.00, and Kia has managed to include a few nice-to-have features without binning the entire kitchen sink. It comes with air-conditioning, tilt-adjustable steering, a trip computer, height adjustable headrests, 60:40 split rear folding seats and a convenient luggage floor box. Unfortunately, you don't get a radio/cd player fitted as standard, but you do however get two front speakers and aux/USB connectivity pre-wired, meaning an aftermarket unit will work just fine.
In keeping with its cut-price ambitions, you don't get daytime running lights or alloy wheels, replaced by black mouldings in the lower front bumper and 14-inch steel items with plastic wheel covers.
The Picanto LS shares its powertrain and five-speed manual transmission with the Picanto LX - the little 1.0-litre triple good for 51kW and 94Nm of torque.
On the safety front, you get a driver’s airbag and ISOFIX child seat anchors as standard equipment.
“The A-segment of the market is one of the most hotly contested segments in South Africa,” says Gary Scott, Director of Sales for KIA Motors South Africa, “where the desire for affordable personal mobility overrides many other considerations. With the Picanto LS, customers now have access to a globally renowned vehicle without having to make any sacrifices in respect of award-winning design or exceptional quality.”
Pricing:
Included is a five-year/150 000km warranty and three years of unlimited roadside assistance. A two-year/45 000km optional service plan is also available across the range.
