Kia goes cold on Picanto

KIA Motors Australia has gone cold on introducing the Picanto light car, despite the fact that an upgraded version will be launched at the Barcelona motor show next week.

A spokesman told GoAuto this week that discounting of slightly larger vehicles from rival brands such as Holden with its Barina was hindering the chances of market success for the Picanto, even though the baby Kia would likely have a higher specification.

It is still under consideration, but an Australian launch is certainly not expected this year.

For the record, the updated Picanto has revised styling, including an extended and more rounded nose and a larger rear bumper which together increase overall length 40mm to 3535mm. Revised front and rear light clusters also reflect the new rounded theme.