The Kia Picanto III, specifically the facelifted version introduced in July 2023, represents the third generation of Kia’s city car. The GT-Line 1.2 (84 hp) Automatic variant, produced from July 2023 to April 2024, occupied a mid-range position within the Picanto lineup, offering a blend of sporty styling cues from the GT-Line trim with the convenience of an automatic transmission and a fuel-efficient 1.2-liter engine. This model aimed to appeal to buyers seeking a stylish and practical urban vehicle with ease of driving. It’s built on the Kia Picanto III platform, a front-engine, front-wheel-drive hatchback designed for maneuverability and affordability.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Kia |
| Model | Picanto |
| Generation | Picanto III (facelift 2023) |
| Type (Engine) | GT-Line 1.2 (84 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | July, 2023 |
| End of production | April, 2024 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 6.7 l/100 km (35.1 US mpg, 42.2 UK mpg, 14.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 156 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.1 kg/Hp, 82.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.3 kg/Nm, 120.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 84 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 67.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 122 Nm @ 4000 rpm (89.98 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | G4LF |
| Engine displacement | 1248 cm3 (76.16 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| 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, D-CVVT |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.8 l (4.02 US qt | 3.34 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 5.4 l (5.71 US qt | 4.75 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1013 kg (2233.28 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.) |
| Height | 1495 mm (58.86 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2400 mm (94.49 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 151 mm (5.94 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 | 4 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Torsion |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 256 mm |
| Rear brakes | Disc, 234 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 195/45 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Picanto GT-Line 1.2 Automatic is the Kia G4LF engine, a 1.248-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine utilizes a multi-point fuel injection system and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with Dual Continuous Variable Valve Timing (D-CVVT). The D-CVVT system optimizes valve timing based on engine load and speed, improving both fuel efficiency and power delivery. The engine produces 84 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 122 Nm (89.98 lb-ft) of torque at 4000 rpm. The engine is transversely mounted at the front of the vehicle. Paired with this engine is a four-speed automatic transmission, chosen for its simplicity and cost-effectiveness. While not offering the refinement of more modern transmissions with more gears, it provides convenient automatic operation for city driving.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.2-liter engine and four-speed automatic combination in the Picanto GT-Line delivers adequate, though not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration is best described as leisurely, suitable for urban commutes and short trips. The automatic transmission’s gear ratios are tuned for fuel economy rather than outright speed. Compared to the manual transmission version of the same engine, the automatic sacrifices some responsiveness. Higher-output Picanto variants, such as those with larger engines, offer significantly more power and quicker acceleration. The steering is light and easy, making maneuvering in tight spaces effortless. The suspension is tuned for comfort, absorbing bumps reasonably well, but can feel somewhat soft during more spirited driving.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The GT-Line trim level adds several sporty styling elements to the standard Picanto. These include a unique front grille, side skirts, a rear diffuser, and alloy wheels. Inside, the GT-Line typically features sportier seat upholstery, often with contrasting stitching. Standard equipment on the 2023-2024 Picanto GT-Line 1.2 Automatic generally includes air conditioning, a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, Bluetooth connectivity, power windows, and central locking. Optional extras could include a rearview camera, parking sensors, and upgraded audio systems.
Chassis & Braking
The Picanto III utilizes a McPherson strut independent suspension at the front and a torsion beam suspension at the rear. This setup provides a good balance between ride comfort and handling. The front brakes are ventilated discs measuring 256mm, while the rear brakes are solid discs measuring 234mm. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is standard. The relatively light weight of the Picanto (1013 kg / 2233.28 lbs) contributes to its nimble handling and reasonable braking performance. Stabilizer bars are included to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Kia Picanto, in general, has been well-received in Europe and Asia as an affordable and practical city car. The GT-Line trim, with its sporty styling, appeals to buyers looking for a more visually appealing option. Critics generally praised the Picanto’s value for money, its compact size, and its ease of driving. The 1.2-liter automatic combination was often noted for its fuel efficiency, but some reviewers found the engine to be underpowered, particularly when fully loaded or on inclines. Compared to other trims, the 1.2L automatic offered a balance between cost and convenience, making it a popular choice for those prioritizing ease of use over performance.
Legacy
The G4LF engine, while not known for being particularly complex, has proven to be generally reliable in the Picanto. The four-speed automatic transmission is also relatively robust, though it may require more frequent servicing than more modern transmissions. On the used car market, the Picanto GT-Line 1.2 Automatic holds its value reasonably well, thanks to its stylish appearance and Kia’s reputation for reliability. Its simplicity and affordability make it an attractive option for first-time car buyers or those seeking a low-cost, economical city car. However, potential buyers should be aware of the engine’s limited power output and the transmission’s lack of refinement compared to newer automatic gearboxes.
