Kia has given its new Picanto the crossover treatment with a rugged version called the X-Line and it has just been launched.
According to the Korean carmaker, the X-Line variant increases the appeal of the Picanto by combining all of its best qualities with a new look. The new look is inspired by Kia’s popular SUVs such as the Sportage and Sorento.
The X-Line’s ground clearance is raised to 156mm – 15mm higher than the standard Picanto – giving the driver an even clearer view of the road.
The X-Line Picanto’s sexy design is boosted by rugged elements such as more imposing, SUV-style bumpers with metal-look skidplates at the front and rear, while the grille and fog light surrounds are finished with lime green highlights.
There is also black cladding around the wheel arches which improves the look of the raised clearance.
Other key features include the 16-inch alloy wheels and LED daytime running lights. The interior is a sporty showcase of technology and luxury features.
Kia claims the Picanto boasts class-leading cabin space, with more leg and headroom than all other rivals in its market. Boot capacity is 255 litres, which can be increased in capacity to 1 010 litres by folding the rear seats flat.
Though it is tiny in size, it is big on safety too with six airbags and ABS as standard.
The X-Line is powered by a lively 1,0-litre turbo engine. This is the most powerful engine yet to be offered in the Picanto range. It accelerates the X-Line from zero to 100km/h in 10,1 seconds. Currently available models are listed as have having five-speed manual gearboxes.
Kia claims the engine uses an average amount of 4,5 litres of fuel every 100km.
Kia South Africa is still deciding whether the X-Line will go on sale here but it will definitely be a winner and take on the VW Cross Up!
