MOTORING NEWS - Adding more convenience to a car packed with comfort and other benefits, Kia Motors South Africa is expanding its Picanto range with the introduction of the Picanto 1,2 Smart Auto.
The range-topping Picanto model has thus far only been available with a five-speed manual transmission.
With more than 700 units sold every month since its launch just six months ago, the Picanto has been adopted as one of the most-loved city cars currently available in South Africa.
"The introduction of an automatic version of the Picanto 1,2 Smart is a direct result of market feedback," says David Sieff, marketing director, Kia Motors South Africa.
"With urban congestion getting worse, many customers are realising just how perfect the Picanto is for the daily commute to work. Our research among current and prospective owners have confirmed this.
"We're confident that the addition of an automatic derivative of the Picanto 1,2 Smart will cement the Picanto's position as a customer favourite."
Now in its third generation, the latest Picanto's striking new styling makes it stand out in any crowd.
Added to the styling is a range of 11 exterior colours – from classic white to vibrant lime green metallic.
This will go further in cementing the Picanto's reputation as the go-choice for the young and young-at-heart.
The range-topping Picanto Smart's notably high specification level has also seen many new customers join the Kia family as the trend of buying down continues.
It has the ideal combination of compact dimensions, smart styling and smart features which makes it the perfect companion for everyday urban driving.
With everything from two-tone leather upholstery to Apple CarPlay included as standard, comfort and convenience can be taken as a given. The compact dimensions go far to ease driving in congested traffic; it also makes parking a breeze.
The range-topping Picanto model has thus far only been available with a five-speed manual transmission.
This is aided by a rear park assist system that incorporates a reverse camera with dynamic guidelines, displayed on a large, 7" colour touch screen, all included as standard.
The Picanto 1,2 Smart Automatic is powered by a four-cylinder, 1,25-litre MPI engine that produces peak power of 61kW and 122Nm of torque.
Matched to Kia's well-known four-speed automatic transmission, the combination ensures high levels of fuel efficiency to keep running costs low.
For its application in the new Picanto, Kia engineers have optimised the valve timing of the engine's dual CVVT (continuously-variable valve timing) system, and a new cooling system with shut-off valve that reduces the time it takes the engine to warm up from a cold start.
Low-friction coated piston rings also help to reduce cylinder friction, for greater efficiency.
The Picanto 1,2 Smart Automatic retails for R212 495, inclusive of Kia 's unlimited kilometre, five year warranty, inclusive of three years' unlimited kilometres roadside assistance, as standard.
A service plan is available as an option through Kia Financial Services.
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