The Kia Picanto III (facelift 2023) 1.0 (68 hp) Automatic 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 ease of use over outright performance. It slots into the Picanto lineup as the most accessible powertrain option, targeting buyers seeking a low-cost, practical, and easy-to-drive vehicle. The facelifted Picanto builds upon the foundation of the TA platform, offering updated styling and technology while retaining the core characteristics of the original Picanto III.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Kia |
| Model | Picanto |
| Generation | Picanto III (facelift 2023) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.0 (68 Hp) Automatic 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) | 7.1 l/100 km (33.1 US mpg, 39.8 UK mpg, 14.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption at Medium speed (WLTP) | 5.5 l/100 km (42.8 US mpg, 51.4 UK mpg, 18.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption at high speed (WLTP) | 5.1 l/100 km (46.1 US mpg, 55.4 UK mpg, 19.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption at very high speed (WLTP) | 6.6 l/100 km (35.6 US mpg, 42.8 UK mpg, 15.2 km/l) |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 5.9 l/100 km (39.9 US mpg, 47.9 UK mpg, 16.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 135 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 17.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 17.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 16.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 160 km/h (99.42 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6e bis |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 13.9 kg/Hp, 71.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 9.9 kg/Nm, 101.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 68 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| 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 | 946-1052 kg (2085.57 – 2319.26 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1380 kg (3042.38 lbs.) |
| Max load | 328-434 kg (723.12 – 956.81 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, automatic 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 Picanto 1.0 Automatic is powered by Kia’s G3LD engine, a 998cc inline-three cylinder gasoline engine. This engine utilizes a direct injection system, contributing to improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions. The G3LD engine produces 68 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 96 Nm (70.81 lb-ft) of torque at 4000 rpm. The engine features a compression ratio of 11:1 and four valves per cylinder. The engine is transversely mounted at the front of the vehicle. Paired with the engine is a 5-speed automatic transmission, chosen for its convenience in urban driving conditions. This transmission is not known for particularly quick shifts, but prioritizes smooth operation and ease of use.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.0L Automatic Picanto delivers modest performance, geared towards city driving rather than highway cruising. Acceleration is slow, with a 0-60 mph time of around 16.3 seconds. The automatic transmission contributes to a relaxed driving experience, but can feel somewhat sluggish when needing to accelerate quickly. The gear ratios are optimized for fuel economy, meaning the engine often operates at higher RPMs during acceleration. Compared to manual transmission versions of the same engine, the automatic sacrifices some responsiveness. Higher-trim Picantos with larger engines (like the 1.25L) offer significantly more power and a more engaging driving experience, but at a higher price point.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.0 Automatic Picanto typically comes with a base level of equipment, focusing on essential features. Standard amenities generally include air conditioning, power windows, central locking, and a basic audio system with Bluetooth connectivity. Safety features such as ABS, airbags, and stability control are also standard. Higher trim levels add features like alloy wheels, a touchscreen infotainment system, and parking sensors. Interior upholstery is typically cloth, with a simple and functional dashboard layout. Optional extras often include a rear-view camera and upgraded audio systems.
Chassis & Braking
The Picanto utilizes a McPherson strut front suspension and a torsion beam rear suspension. This setup provides a comfortable ride quality, particularly on smooth roads. The front brakes are disc brakes, while the rear brakes are drum brakes – a cost-saving measure common in this segment. The steering is electrically assisted, providing light and easy steering feel. The relatively lightweight nature of the vehicle helps to compensate for the modest braking performance.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 1.0 Automatic Picanto has been generally well-received as an affordable and practical city car. Critics have praised its fuel efficiency and ease of driving, but have noted its lack of outright performance. Compared to other trims in the Picanto lineup, the 1.0 Automatic offers the lowest price of entry but sacrifices performance and some features. Competitors like the Hyundai i10 and Mitsubishi Mirage offer similar value propositions, with comparable fuel economy and performance.
Legacy
The G3LD engine and the associated 5-speed automatic transmission have proven to be relatively reliable in the Picanto. While not known for exceptional longevity, these components generally require minimal maintenance when properly serviced. On the used car market, the 1.0 Automatic Picanto represents a budget-friendly option for buyers seeking a small, economical vehicle. Its simplicity and low running costs make it an attractive choice for first-time car owners or those needing a dependable city runabout.
