Still the budget king, or have rivals like the Toyota Starlet stolen its crown?
The 2025 Kia Picanto remains one of South Africa’s top-selling micro-hatches, offering budget-friendly motoring with surprising tech upgrades. But with rivals like the Toyota Starlet and Suzuki Swift upping their game, does it still deliver? We break it down.
What’s New for 2025?
Kia hasn’t reinvented the wheel, but subtle tweaks keep the Picanto competitive:
- Sharper Styling – Revised grille, LED daytime running lights, and fresh alloy wheel designs
- Tech Boost – 8-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto (finally!)
- More Safety – Rear parking sensors now standard across the range
Note: No major mechanical changes—still the same 1.25L 4-cylinder engine.
The Good: Why the Picanto Still Wins Hearts
1. Surprisingly Spacious for Its Size
- Seats 4 adults comfortably (unlike the cramped Suzuki S-Presso)
- 255L boot (bigger than a Toyota Starlet’s 250L)
- Clever storage with dual-tier dash shelves and USB-C ports
2. Cheap to Run
Fuel economy: 5.4L/100km (claimed) | 6.0L/100km (real-world tested)
7-year/unlimited km warranty – best in class
Low insurance costs (perfect for first-time buyers)
3. Fun to Drive (If You Get the Manual)
- The 5-speed manual is engaging—unlike the sluggish 4-speed auto
- Light steering = easy parking in Joburg traffic
- Surprisingly stable at highway speeds (for a micro-car)
The Bad: Where It Falls Short
1. Underpowered on Highways
- 62kW/122Nm means overtaking requires patience
- Noisy at 120km/h—engine sounds like it’s working overtime
2. Basic Interior in Lower Trims
- Hard plastics everywhere (GT-Line adds leatherette)
- No LED headlights on base models (unlike rivals)
3. Safety? It’s… Okay
- No AEB (Autonomous Emergency Braking) or adaptive cruise control
- 4-star ANCAP rating (based on 2017 tests—now expired)
Pricing & Trim Levels (South Africa)
| Model | Price (Est.) | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| 1.2 LX Manual | R235,000 | Basic infotainment, no rear sensors |
| 1.2 EX Auto | R275,000 | 8-inch screen, rear parking sensors |
| 1.2 GT-Line | R310,000 | LED lights, sportier styling |
Alternatives:
- Toyota Starlet (R265,000+) – More refined, better safety
- Suzuki Swift (R260,000+) – Zippier engine, softer ride
Verdict: Who Should Buy It?
Best for: Urban commuters, students, budget-focused buyers
Avoid if: You regularly drive long distances or want premium features
– Still a great city car, but rivals offer more tech
