Cruising at 150km/h in a tiny 1100cc car is amazing, especially when you consider this was the top speed of most mid-sized and large cars in the mid-1960's. The Kia Picanto is part of the new baby car revolution...

I was pleasantly surprised when the Picanto managed better results than the Fiat Palio 1.2 and challenged the Renault Clio 1.2 in some respects on our test run.

It was also great to see fourth gear wind up to around its top speed of 155km/h when I hit a steep hill. Once back in fifth gear, which really acts as an overdrive, the Korean car continued to cruise as quietly as before.

The single overhead cam engine develops 49kW at 5500rpm and like the extremely successful Toyota Tazz has a three-valve per cylinder head layout. The total package comes with a power to weight ratio of 54kW per ton, which is better than the Fiat Uno 1.1 and comparable to the Fiat Palio 1.2, Toyota Tazz 1.3 or the Hyundai Getz 1.3. With a fuel consumption of 5.2 litres per 100km, it is also at the top end of the small car market in South Africa.

Road holding and ride were good during my test. The Picanto responds well to steering inputs, but is neutral in terms of cornering behaviour. And if the Picanto has a downside, it's perhaps the heavy steering feel. A pity really, as the Picanto is supposed to be a city car.

What struck me was the overall feel of the car. Gone are the Kia's of the past, which tried to match its competitors, but never quite seemed to make it. In design terms, it follows the latest trends and makes a fine statement even causing heads to turn — the treatment of the cute front grille is the main drawcard.

I found the Tyre Mobility Kit a most absorbing device. Developed by Continental, it does away with the conventional spare wheel. If you have a puncture, a small compressor and a liquid sealant pumped through the valve will help get you back on your way, without having to jack up the car.

The Koreans are finally getting their act together. In fact the Picanto is well spiced and has the goods to compete with any rivals in its class.

The price tag is reasonable at R72 995 with Euro 4 safety features, remote control central locking and transponder immobiliser thrown in. The air-conditioned version retails at R79 995.

Fast Impressions
MakeKIA Picanto 1.1 LX
Engine 4-cyl SOHC 12V
Capacity 1086cc
Power47kW @ 5500rpm
Torque99Nm @ 3000rpm
Specific Power43kW per litre
Power to weight54kW per ton
Torque to weight1114Nm per ton
TransmissionFWD/ 5-speed manual
Fuel capacity35 litres
Acceleration 0-100km/h(c)15.4 seconds
0-100km/h(g)14.3 seconds
Quarter mile (exit speed)(g)19.8 seconds @ 113km/h
80-120km/h 4th gear(g)17.4 seconds
120-160km/h 4th gear (g)n/a
Maximum speed155km/h
Fuel use overall4.9 litres per 100km
PriceR79 995 (aircon)
CIA rating9 stars
g=Gauteng
c=Claimed

*Cars in Action only uses BP Cleaner Unleaded petrol or Cleaner Diesel Plus.