The Kia Picanto II 5D 1.2 16V (85 hp) automatic, produced between 2011 and 2015, represents a key variant within the second generation of Kia’s city car. Positioned as an accessible and economical option, this model aimed to provide convenient urban transportation with the ease of an automatic transmission. It was part of the TA series Picanto, built on the Hyundai/Kia BA platform, and primarily targeted buyers seeking a practical, affordable, and easy-to-drive vehicle. This particular configuration occupied a mid-range position within the Picanto II lineup, offering a step up from the base models while remaining below the more comprehensively equipped trims.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Kia |
| Model | Picanto |
| Generation | Picanto II 5D |
| Type (Engine) | 1.2 16V (85 Hp) automatic |
| Start of production | 2011 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6.7 l/100 km (35.1 US mpg, 42.2 UK mpg, 14.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.5 l/100 km (52.3 US mpg, 62.8 UK mpg, 22.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.3 l/100 km (44.4 US mpg, 53.3 UK mpg, 18.9 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 13.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 13.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 12.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 163 km/h (101.28 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.3 kg/Hp, 97.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.3 kg/Nm, 137.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 85 Hp |
| Power per litre | 68.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 120 Nm @ 4000 rpm (88.51 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | G4LA |
| Engine displacement | 1248 cm3 (76.16 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.5 l (3.7 US qt | 3.08 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 5.1 l (5.39 US qt | 4.49 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 875 kg (1929.04 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1370 kg (3020.33 lbs.) |
| Max load | 495 kg (1091.29 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 200 l (7.06 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 605 l (21.37 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 35 l (9.25 US gal | 7.7 UK gal) |
| Length | 3595 mm (141.54 in.) |
| Width | 1595 mm (62.8 in.) |
| Height | 1480 mm (58.27 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2385 mm (93.9 in.) |
| Front track | 1421 mm (55.94 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1424 mm (56.06 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 9.8 m (32.15 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 4 |
| Gearbox type | automatic transmission |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the Picanto II 5D 1.2 automatic lies the Kia G4LA engine, a 1.2-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine utilizes a multi-point fuel injection system, delivering fuel directly into the intake ports. The engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain, operating 16 valves (four per cylinder) to optimize airflow and combustion efficiency. The G4LA is a naturally aspirated engine, meaning it doesn’t rely on turbocharging or supercharging for increased power. The engine’s modest output of 85 horsepower and 88.5 lb-ft of torque is delivered at 4,000 rpm. Paired with this engine is a four-speed automatic transmission. This transmission, while providing convenience, is a relatively simple design compared to more modern automatics with six or more gears. It prioritizes smooth operation over maximizing fuel efficiency or performance.
Driving Characteristics
The driving experience in the Picanto II 5D 1.2 automatic is characterized by its ease of use and suitability for urban environments. The four-speed automatic transmission provides smooth, if not particularly quick, gear changes. Acceleration is modest, taking approximately 13.4 seconds to reach 62 mph (100 km/h). The limited number of gears means the engine can feel strained during hard acceleration or when climbing hills. Compared to the five-speed manual version of the same engine, the automatic suffers a slight performance penalty and typically exhibits slightly lower fuel economy. However, the automatic’s convenience makes it a popular choice for drivers prioritizing ease of driving over outright performance. The steering is light and responsive, making maneuvering in tight city streets effortless.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.2 automatic trim level of the Picanto II 5D typically included standard features such as air conditioning, central locking, power steering, and electric front windows. Safety features included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and dual airbags. Interior upholstery was generally cloth, with a functional, if basic, dashboard layout. Optional extras available for this trim could include alloy wheels, a radio/CD player with MP3 compatibility, and upgraded interior trim materials. Higher trim levels offered additional features like a sunroof, parking sensors, and a more sophisticated audio system.
Chassis & Braking
The Picanto II 5D utilizes a front-wheel-drive layout with a MacPherson strut front suspension and a torsion beam rear suspension. This setup provides a comfortable ride quality, well-suited for navigating uneven road surfaces. Braking is handled by disc brakes on the front wheels and drum brakes on the rear wheels. The braking system is adequate for the vehicle’s weight and performance, but doesn’t offer the stopping power of more advanced braking systems. The steering employs a rack and pinion system, providing precise and responsive steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Kia Picanto II 5D 1.2 automatic was generally well-received by automotive critics as an affordable and practical city car. Its fuel economy, averaging around 44.4 US mpg in combined driving, was a significant selling point. However, the automatic transmission was sometimes criticized for its lack of responsiveness and limited number of gears. Compared to other city cars in its class, such as the Fiat Panda or Volkswagen Up!, the Picanto offered a competitive level of equipment and a longer warranty. The 1.2-liter engine provided adequate power for urban driving, but it was outmatched by larger-displacement engines offered in some competing models.
Legacy
The Kia Picanto II 5D 1.2 automatic has proven to be a relatively reliable vehicle, with the G4LA engine and four-speed automatic transmission generally exhibiting good durability. Common maintenance items include regular oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug replacements. On the used car market, these Picantos are often sought after for their affordability and low running costs. While not a performance car, the 1.2 automatic variant remains a practical and economical choice for drivers seeking a small, easy-to-drive vehicle for urban commuting.
