A small but proven engine offers enough brio to provide this latest Kia Picanto with adequate get up and go, while the five-speed manual gearbox makes for engaging driving. Confident handing adds to the experience, while this top-level version impresses with a feature-laden cabin, too. Add cheeky styling, and the latest-generation Kia Picanto is an appealing small hatchback.

SPECS
Make and model: Kia Picanto 1.2 Smart Manual
Engine: In-line four-cylinder, 1 248 cc
Power: 61 kW @ 6 000 rpm
Torque: 122 Nm @ 4 000 rpm
Power-to-weight ratio: 68,23 kW/ton
Gearbox: Five-speed manual, FWD
Wheels/tyres: 15-inch alloy, 185/55 R15 tyres

PERFORMANCE
0-100 km/h: 13,0 sec (est)
Top speed: 170 km/h
Fuel tank capacity: 35 litres
Fuel consumption (claimed/tested): 6,5 litres/100 km (est)
Operating range (claimed/tested): 540 km (est)
CO2 emissions: 116 g/km

SUMMARY AND PRICING

PROS
Sharper looks, smarter cabin.
CONS
Could do with more pep.

Retail price/as tested: R195 995/R195 995

RIVALS
Hyundai Grand i10 1.25 Fluid: R202 900
Toyota Yaris1.0 Pulse: R199 000