The Kia Picanto III 1.0 (67 Hp) ISG represents an entry-level offering within the third generation of Kia’s city car, the Picanto. Produced from April 2017 to June 2020, this variant was primarily aimed at the European and Asian markets, where fuel efficiency and affordability are key considerations. It slots into the Picanto III lineup as the base model, offering a cost-effective and economical option for urban commuters. The Picanto III, internally designated as the TA platform, aimed to provide a more sophisticated and spacious package than its predecessors, while maintaining the brand’s value proposition.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Kia |
| Model | Picanto |
| Generation | Picanto III |
| Type (Engine) | 1.0 (67 Hp) ISG |
| Start of production | April, 2017 |
| End of production | June, 2020 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.3 l/100 km (44.4 US mpg, 53.3 UK mpg, 18.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.6 l/100 km (65.3 US mpg, 78.5 UK mpg, 27.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.2 l/100 km (56 US mpg, 67.3 UK mpg, 23.8 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 97 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 14.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 14.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 13.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 161 km/h (100.04 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 14 kg/Hp, 71.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 9.7 kg/Nm, 102.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 67 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 67.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 96 Nm @ 3500 rpm (70.81 lb.-ft. @ 3500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | G3LA |
| Engine displacement | 998 cm3 (60.9 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 3 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 71 mm (2.8 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 84 mm (3.31 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 2.9 l (3.06 US qt | 2.55 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 5 l (5.28 US qt | 4.4 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 935-1028 kg (2061.32 – 2266.35 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1400 kg (3086.47 lbs.) |
| Max load | 372-465 kg (820.12 – 1025.15 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 255 l (9.01 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1010 l (35.67 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.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1880 mm (74.02 in.) |
| Height | 1485 mm (58.46 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2400 mm (94.49 in.) |
| Front track | 1406 mm (55.35 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1415 mm (55.71 in.) |
| Front overhang | 675 mm (26.57 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 520 mm (20.47 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 141 mm (5.55 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 9.4 m (30.84 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Semi-independent, coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 175/65 R14 |
| Wheel rims size | 5.5J X 14 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Picanto III 1.0 ISG is the Kia G3LA engine, a 998cc inline-three cylinder petrol engine. This engine utilizes a multi-point fuel injection system and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain, contributing to its relatively efficient operation. The G3LA engine is known for its simplicity and reliability, prioritizing fuel economy over outright performance. The ‘ISG’ designation indicates the inclusion of Kia’s Idle Stop & Go system, which automatically shuts off the engine when the vehicle is stationary (e.g., at traffic lights) to further reduce fuel consumption and emissions. This engine is paired with a five-speed manual transmission, optimized for urban driving conditions. The transmission’s gear ratios are geared towards maximizing fuel efficiency and providing adequate acceleration in city traffic.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.0-liter, 67 horsepower engine in the Picanto III delivers modest performance. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes approximately 13.6 seconds, and the top speed is around 100 mph. While not particularly quick, the engine provides sufficient power for navigating city streets and highways at moderate speeds. The five-speed manual transmission allows drivers to maintain optimal engine speed for fuel efficiency or to extract the most available power when needed. Compared to higher-trim Picantos equipped with larger engines, the 1.0L ISG feels noticeably slower, especially when fully loaded or climbing hills. However, its lighter weight and responsive steering make it nimble and easy to maneuver in tight spaces.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.0 ISG trim typically came with a basic but functional equipment list. Standard features generally included air conditioning, power steering, central locking, electric front windows, and a basic audio system with USB connectivity. Safety features such as ABS, airbags, and stability control were also standard. Higher trim levels offered upgrades like alloy wheels, a touchscreen infotainment system, rear parking sensors, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. The interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a simple and durable design. Optional extras included metallic paint finishes and upgraded audio systems.
Chassis & Braking
The Picanto III 1.0 ISG utilizes a McPherson strut front suspension and a semi-independent coil spring rear suspension. This setup provides a comfortable ride quality, particularly on smooth roads. The front brakes are ventilated discs, while the rear brakes are discs, offering adequate stopping power for the vehicle’s weight and performance. The electric power steering provides light and precise steering feel, making it easy to maneuver in urban environments. The relatively small tires (175/65 R14) contribute to fuel efficiency but offer limited grip in wet or slippery conditions.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Kia Picanto III 1.0 ISG was generally well-received by critics as an affordable and economical city car. Its fuel efficiency and low running costs were particularly praised. However, its modest performance and basic interior were noted as drawbacks. Compared to other trims in the Picanto lineup, the 1.0 ISG offered the lowest price point but also the least amount of power and features. Competitors such as the Hyundai i10 and Volkswagen up! offered similar levels of fuel efficiency and affordability, but the Picanto stood out with its generous warranty and value-for-money proposition.
Legacy
The Kia Picanto III 1.0 ISG has proven to be a reliable and durable vehicle, with the G3LA engine demonstrating good longevity. In the used car market, these models are often sought after by first-time buyers and those looking for an economical and practical city car. While not known for its performance, the Picanto III 1.0 ISG remains a popular choice for those prioritizing fuel efficiency, affordability, and ease of maintenance. The ISG system, while not always universally loved by drivers, has contributed to the vehicle’s overall fuel economy and environmental friendliness.
