The Kia Picanto II (facelifted in 2015) 1.2-liter (85 horsepower) variant was a key offering in Kia’s city car lineup, primarily targeted at the European and Asian markets. Introduced as part of the second-generation Picanto (TA series), this facelift brought updated styling and minor mechanical refinements. Production of this specific configuration ran from 2015 to 2017. Positioned as an entry-level to mid-range trim, it aimed to provide affordable and efficient transportation, appealing to first-time car buyers, city dwellers, and those seeking a practical and economical vehicle. This 3-door hatchback offered a balance between cost, fuel economy, and usability within the Picanto range.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Kia |
| Model | Picanto |
| Generation | Picanto II 3D (facelift 2015) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.2 (85 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2015 |
| End of production | 2017 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.9-6.3 l/100 km (39.9 – 37.3 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.8 l/100 km (61.9 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.6-4.7 l/100 km (51.1 – 50 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 106-109 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 175 km/h (108.74 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.1 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.2 kg/Nm |
| Power | 85 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| 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 |
| Cylinder Bore | 71 mm (2.8 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 78.8 mm (3.1 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| 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 | 860-996 kg (1895.98 – 2195.8 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1430 kg (3152.61 lbs.) |
| Max load | 434-570 kg (956.81 – 1256.63 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 200 l (7.06 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 870 l (30.72 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 | 1480 mm (58.27 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2385 mm (93.9 in.) |
| Front track | 1409-1421 mm (55.47 – 55.94 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1412-1424 mm (55.59 – 56.06 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 9.6 m (31.5 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | 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 | 155/70 R13 75T; 165/60 R14 75H; 175/50 R15 75H |
| Wheel rims size | 4.5J x 13 ET 46; 5.0J x 14 ET 49; 5.5J x 15 |
INTRODUCTION
The Kia Picanto II, launched in 2011 and facelifted in 2015, represented a significant step forward for Kia in the European city car segment. The 1.2-liter 85 horsepower variant, equipped with a 5-speed manual transmission, was a popular choice due to its affordability and practicality. This model aimed to compete with established players like the Fiat Panda, Volkswagen Up!, and Hyundai i10. The facelift brought subtle cosmetic changes, including a revised front grille and updated interior trim, along with minor improvements to fuel efficiency and emissions. The 3-door body style offered a slightly sportier aesthetic compared to the 5-door version, appealing to a younger demographic.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Picanto variant is the Kia G4LA 1.2-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine utilizes a naturally aspirated configuration with multi-point fuel injection. The G4LA engine is known for its simplicity and reliability. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) design with four valves per cylinder. The engine’s relatively low compression ratio of 10.5:1 contributes to its ability to run on standard gasoline. The 5-speed manual transmission provides a straightforward driving experience. The gear ratios are tuned for fuel efficiency and urban driving, with a relatively tall final drive. This configuration prioritizes economy over outright performance.
Driving Characteristics
The 85 horsepower output and 120 Nm of torque translate to modest, but adequate, performance for city driving. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph takes around 11.3 seconds, and the top speed is approximately 108.74 mph. The engine feels somewhat strained at higher speeds, particularly when fully loaded. The 5-speed manual transmission is light and easy to use, but the gear ratios are spaced to maximize fuel economy rather than provide spirited acceleration. Compared to higher-spec Picanto models with more powerful engines, this variant feels noticeably slower. However, its nimble handling and compact size make it easy to maneuver in tight urban environments.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.2-liter Picanto typically came with a reasonable level of standard equipment. This included central locking, power steering, electric front windows, and an ABS anti-lock braking system. Air conditioning was often an optional extra, as were features like alloy wheels and a stereo system with USB connectivity. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a simple and functional dashboard layout. Higher trim levels offered upgrades such as a leather-wrapped steering wheel, upgraded audio systems, and additional safety features.
Chassis & Braking
The Picanto II utilizes a front-wheel-drive layout with an independent McPherson strut suspension at the front and a semi-independent coil spring suspension at the rear. This setup provides a comfortable ride quality, particularly on smooth roads. The front brakes are ventilated discs, while the rear brakes are discs. The steering is electrically assisted, providing light and precise control. The relatively lightweight construction of the Picanto contributes to its nimble handling characteristics.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Kia Picanto II 1.2-liter was generally well-received by critics for its affordability, fuel efficiency, and practicality. It was often praised for its value for money and its surprisingly spacious interior for a car of its size. However, some reviewers noted that the engine lacked power, particularly when driving on motorways or with a full load. Compared to other trims in the Picanto lineup, this variant offered the most affordable entry point, but at the expense of performance. Its fuel economy was comparable to other city cars in its class, and its reliability proved to be good.
Legacy
The Kia Picanto II 1.2-liter has proven to be a reliable and durable vehicle, with many examples still on the road today. The G4LA engine is known for its longevity, and maintenance costs are generally low. In the used car market, this variant represents a good value proposition for buyers seeking an affordable and economical city car. While it may not offer the performance or refinement of more expensive vehicles, its practicality and reliability make it a popular choice for budget-conscious buyers.
