2012 Kia Picanto Spied, to be unveiled at 2011 Geneva Motor Show

Posted By: Vinod Sharma | Dec 7 2010

Even when 2011 Geneva Motor show is too far and even media persons have to wait long for the entry, why automakers are revealing vehicles intended for the show is beyond my comprehension. Nevertheless, Kia has revealed a brand new minicar, Picanto. From its overall appearance and design, Picanto seems a rival for equally small Toyota iQ. The vehicle will go on sale in Europe in the second half of 2011 and is expected to reach US shortly.

2012 kia picanto

Design wise Picanto has close resemblance to that of Toyota IQ but at the same time has unique elements to make it stand apart. The spyshots to the near production models reveal conventional hatchback design for four-seater layout. On the other, new Picanto will have the same dimension but exterior is expected to borrow some cues from the Venga, which means it will be sportier.

Further, the company’s tiger nose grille and a new shoulder line round off the boxy look the current model has. The five door model is the first configuration to hit the market; however, the brand also aims to develop a three door variant. Offered with refreshed material, new Picanto, as per the close sources, will feature 1.0-liter engine that releases only 99 grams of CO2 in the atmosphere. Pricing will be slightly different, but don't expect to see the cheapest model breaking the EUR 8,000 barrier.