The Kia Picanto II, launched in 2011 and produced through 2015, represented a significant step forward for Kia’s city car offering. The 1.2 16V (85 hp) automatic variant, specifically the 3-door hatchback (designated the Picanto II 3D), was positioned as a convenient and affordable entry point into the model range, aimed at buyers prioritizing ease of use and fuel efficiency over outright performance. This generation Picanto, built on the TA platform, was a key model for Kia as they continued to expand their presence in the European and global markets, offering a compelling alternative to established competitors like the Fiat Panda and Volkswagen Up!. The 3-door body style, while less common than the 5-door, offered a slightly sportier aesthetic.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Kia |
| Model | Picanto |
| Generation | Picanto II 3D |
| Type (Engine) | 1.2 16V (85 Hp) automatic |
| Start of production | 2011 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6.7 l/100 km (35.1 US mpg, 42.2 UK mpg, 14.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.5 l/100 km (52.3 US mpg, 62.8 UK mpg, 22.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.3 l/100 km (44.4 US mpg, 53.3 UK mpg, 18.9 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 13.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 13.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 12.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 163 km/h (101.28 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.3 kg/Hp, 97.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.3 kg/Nm, 137.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 85 Hp |
| Power per litre | 68.1 Hp/l |
| 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 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| 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 | 875 kg (1929.04 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1370 kg (3020.33 lbs.) |
| Max load | 495 kg (1091.29 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 200 l (7.06 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 605 l (21.37 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 | 1480 mm (58.27 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2385 mm (93.9 in.) |
| Front track | 1421 mm (55.94 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1424 mm (56.06 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 9.8 m (32.15 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 4 |
| Gearbox type | automatic transmission |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Picanto II 3D 1.2 automatic is the Kia G4LA engine, a 1.2-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine utilizes a multi-point fuel injection system and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain, contributing to reasonable efficiency and smooth operation. The G4LA produces 85 horsepower and 88.5 lb-ft of torque at 4000 rpm. The engine is transversely mounted in the front of the vehicle. The automatic transmission is a conventional 4-speed unit. While not known for its speed, this transmission was chosen for its simplicity and affordability, aligning with the Picanto’s target market. The engine’s design prioritized fuel economy and low emissions, meeting Euro 5 standards.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.2L automatic Picanto offers a comfortable, if uninspiring, driving experience. Acceleration is modest, taking around 13.4 seconds to reach 62 mph. The 4-speed automatic transmission, while smooth, lacks the responsiveness of more modern transmissions with more gears. Gear ratios are optimized for fuel efficiency rather than performance. In city driving, the Picanto is nimble and easy to maneuver, thanks to its small size and light steering. On the highway, the engine can feel strained when overtaking or climbing hills. Compared to the manual transmission version, the automatic sacrifices some responsiveness and fuel economy, but gains in convenience. The higher-output engines available in the Picanto II range (though not typically offered with the 3-door body style) provided significantly more spirited performance, but at a higher price point.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Picanto II 3D 1.2 automatic typically came with a basic but functional equipment list. Standard features generally included air conditioning, power steering, central locking, and electric front windows. Safety features included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and dual airbags. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a simple dashboard layout. Optional extras could include alloy wheels, a radio/CD player, and upgraded interior trim. The trim level for this variant was generally considered entry-level, focusing on providing essential features at an affordable price.
Chassis & Braking
The Picanto II 3D utilizes a front-wheel-drive chassis with a MacPherson strut front suspension and a torsion beam rear suspension. The rear brakes were typically drum brakes, while the front brakes were disc brakes. This configuration was chosen to keep costs down and maintain a reasonable level of ride comfort. The steering system is a rack and pinion type, providing light and precise steering. The 14-inch wheels were fitted with 165/60 R14 tires. Stabilizer bars were present, contributing to improved handling and stability.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Kia Picanto II 3D 1.2 automatic was generally well-received by critics as a practical and affordable city car. Its fuel economy was a major selling point, and its compact size made it easy to park and maneuver in urban environments. However, its performance was often criticized as being underwhelming, particularly with the automatic transmission. Compared to other trims in the Picanto lineup, the 1.2 automatic offered the lowest performance but the greatest convenience. It competed directly with other small city cars like the Fiat Panda, Toyota Aygo, and Volkswagen Up!, offering a compelling value proposition with Kia’s industry-leading warranty.
Legacy
The Kia Picanto II 3D 1.2 automatic has proven to be a relatively reliable vehicle, with the G4LA engine and 4-speed automatic transmission being generally durable. Common issues are typically related to wear and tear on suspension components and minor electrical faults. In the used car market, these Picantos are often sought after as affordable and economical transportation. While not a performance car, the 1.2 automatic variant remains a practical and dependable choice for buyers looking for a small, fuel-efficient city car. Its simplicity and affordability continue to make it a popular option for first-time car buyers and those seeking a low-cost runabout.
