The Kia Picanto III (facelift 2023) 1.0 (68 Hp) 4-Seat represents an entry-level offering within the third generation of Kia’s city car, the Picanto. Introduced in July 2025, this variant is designed for urban environments, prioritizing fuel efficiency and affordability. It slots into the Picanto lineup as the base model, offering a more accessible price point compared to higher-trim levels with larger engines or more extensive features. The facelifted Picanto builds upon the foundation of the TA platform, offering updated styling and technology while retaining the core characteristics of the successful city car.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Kia |
| Model | Picanto |
| Generation | Picanto III (facelift 2023) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.0 (68 Hp) 4 Seat |
| Start of production | July, 2025 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption at Low speed (WLTP) | 6.6 l/100 km (35.6 US mpg, 42.8 UK mpg, 15.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption at Medium speed (WLTP) | 5.2 l/100 km (45.2 US mpg, 54.3 UK mpg, 19.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption at high speed (WLTP) | 4.8 l/100 km (49 US mpg, 58.9 UK mpg, 20.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption at very high speed (WLTP) | 6.2 l/100 km (37.9 US mpg, 45.6 UK mpg, 16.1 km/l) |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 5.6 l/100 km (42 US mpg, 50.4 UK mpg, 17.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 127 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 14.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 14.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 14 sec |
| Maximum speed | 161 km/h (100.04 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6e bis |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 13.9 kg/Hp, 72.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 9.8 kg/Nm, 101.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 68 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 68.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 96 Nm @ 4000 rpm (70.81 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | G3LD |
| 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 | 11:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.1 l (3.28 US qt | 2.73 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 5.2 l (5.49 US qt | 4.58 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 943-1049 kg (2078.96 – 2312.65 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1380 kg (3042.38 lbs.) |
| Max load | 331-437 kg (729.73 – 963.42 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) |
| Max. roof load | 60 kg (132.28 lbs.) |
| Length | 3605 mm (141.93 in.) |
| Width | 1595 mm (62.8 in.) |
| Height | 1485 mm (58.46 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2400 mm (94.49 in.) |
| Front track | 1394-1406 mm (54.88 – 55.35 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1402-1414 mm (55.2 – 55.67 in.) |
| Front overhang | 685 mm (26.97 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 520 mm (20.47 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 141 mm (5.55 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 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, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring, Elastic beam |
| Front brakes | Disc, 256 mm |
| Rear brakes | Drum, 203 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 175/65 R14 86T; 185/55 R15 86H; 195/45 R16 84V |
| Wheel rims size | 5.5J x 14 ET45; 6.0J x 15 ET51; 6.5J x 16 ET51 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The 2025 Kia Picanto 1.0 utilizes the G3LD engine, a 998cc inline-three cylinder gasoline engine. This engine is part of Kia’s Kappa family of engines, known for its compact size and efficiency. The G3LD features direct fuel injection, contributing to improved fuel economy and reduced emissions. The engine produces 68 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 96 Nm (70.81 lb-ft) of torque at 4000 rpm. The engine’s 11:1 compression ratio aids in maximizing efficiency. The engine is transversely mounted, driving the front wheels. The standard transmission is a 5-speed manual gearbox, optimized for urban driving conditions. The gear ratios are relatively short, prioritizing acceleration from low speeds over high-speed cruising.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.0-liter Picanto with a manual transmission offers a practical, if not exhilarating, driving experience. Acceleration is modest, taking approximately 14.7 seconds to reach 62 mph (100 km/h). The engine feels most comfortable in the lower to mid-range of the rev band, providing adequate power for city driving and navigating traffic. The short gear ratios mean the engine needs to be revved to maintain speed on highways. Compared to higher-output Picanto variants, this 1.0L model prioritizes fuel economy over outright performance. The steering is light and easy to maneuver, making it ideal for tight urban spaces. The suspension is tuned for comfort, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road reasonably well.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The base 1.0-liter Picanto typically comes with a modest level of standard equipment. Features generally include air conditioning, power steering, central locking, and an integrated audio system with USB connectivity. Safety features such as ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and airbags are standard. Interior upholstery is typically cloth, with a functional, if basic, dashboard layout. Optional extras, depending on the market, could include alloy wheels, a touchscreen infotainment system, and parking sensors. The focus of this trim level is on providing essential features at an affordable price point.
Chassis & Braking
The Picanto utilizes a McPherson strut front suspension and a torsion beam rear suspension. This setup provides a good balance between ride comfort and handling. The front brakes are ventilated discs, while the rear brakes are drums. This configuration is typical for vehicles in this weight class, prioritizing cost-effectiveness. The electric power steering provides light and responsive steering feel. The relatively lightweight nature of the Picanto contributes to its agility and ease of handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Kia Picanto 1.0 (68 Hp) 4-Seat is generally well-regarded as an affordable and economical city car. Critics often praise its fuel efficiency, compact size, and ease of parking. However, the engine’s limited power output is often noted as a drawback, particularly for highway driving or when carrying a full load of passengers. Compared to other trims in the Picanto lineup, such as those with larger engines, this variant offers the lowest price point but sacrifices performance. Its fuel economy of around 5.6 l/100 km (42 US mpg) is competitive within its segment.
Legacy
The G3LD engine, while not known for being a powerhouse, has proven to be relatively reliable. The Picanto III, in general, has established a reputation for being a dependable and affordable vehicle. On the used car market, the 1.0-liter variant is often sought after by first-time car buyers or those looking for a low-cost, fuel-efficient runabout. Maintenance costs are generally low, and parts availability is good. The simplicity of the engine and drivetrain contributes to its long-term reliability, making it a practical choice for budget-conscious buyers.
