Which 2019 Kia Picanto to buy - Variant Comparison Guide

Small hatchbacks have since evolved from their humble commuter car status into something better. While they have retained their city-based form factor, the features and the technology found inside them has since improved. Enter the Kia Picanto, the South Korean automaker’s answer to those looking for a city car that can also be used for long-distance trips. The South Korean hatchback is currently available in the Philippines with two engine options, as well as two trim levels. These give the vehicle a wider reach in its segment as it has a variant that can meet budgetary constraints all for P750,000.

The Kia Picanto LX is the entry-level variant of the model lineup. It comes with the same looks as its more upscale LX variant, however, it does come with hub caps instead of 14-inch alloy wheels. It also comes with a different engine, a 1.0-liter 3-cylinder gasoline motor that pushes out 67hp and 96 Nm of torque. While it may not look like much on paper it still has more than enough power to get the lightweight hatchback going. The Kia Picanto LX can be had with either a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic transmission.

On the inside, you are greeted with a simple black interior. While the plastics may not look premium, they are durable, which is something that should be expected for its price point. While you don't get the bigger 7-inch infotainment system found in the EX variant, you do get, however, an AM/FM Radio that comes with MP3 reading capabilities as well as USB and Aux-in ports. Bluetooth connectivity is also present at this trim-level along with a 4-speaker sound system. In terms of safety, an airbag is present in the vehicle for the driver.

Pricing for the Kia Picanto LX starts at P590,000 for the manual version and P635,000 for the automatic variant.

The Kia Picanto EX is the more powerful variant in the lineup. Not only does it come with 14-inch alloy wheels but it also comes with a bigger 1.2-liter 4-cylinder gasoline motor that produces 83 hp and 121 Nm of torque. Thanks to the extra power under the hood, the Picanto becomes more spritely in the city, giving you acceleration when you need it at city speeds. Similar to that of the 1.0-liter variant, the 1.2-liter EX can be had with either a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic transmission.

On the inside, you are still greeted by the same black and gray color scheme although a much nicer 7-inch infotainment system is present in the vehicle giving you access to screen mirroring applications such as Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. A reverse camera is also present in this variant of the Kia Picanto. Despite it being the top of the line model, unfortunately, there is no leather seat material available for this trim-level.

In terms of safety, the 1.2 EX variant of the South Korean hatchback gets access to two dual front airbags one for the driver and front passenger, as well as, an Anti-lock Brake System (ABS), and an engine immobilizer. Those who have children will be happy to know that ISOFIX child seat anchors are also present in the vehicle.

Pricing for the Kia Picanto 1.2 EX starts at P700,000 for the manual variant and P745,000 for the automatic version.

Out of the two trim-levels available for the Kia Picanto, the best value for money pick is the EX variant in either its automatic or manual form. Not only does it come with a more powerful motor, but it also adds better safety features. Compared to that of the LX, the EX trim-level gains an extra airbag for the front passenger, as well as ABS, and a 7-inch infotainment system. This gives the EX variant an edge over its entry-level brother and adds a bit of convenience thanks to the Android Auto and Apple CarPlay capabilities of the head unit. The addition of the reverse camera also aids in making the variant a better value for money pick over the LX.

All in all the EX variant is the way to go if you want to get your hands on a Kia Picanto today. While it may cost a little bit more than the LX, the additional safety features alone make it worth the additional money.

If you want to get your hands on a Kia Picanto today then we highly recommend using our 'Buy Online' feature to make the process of getting your brand new vehicle go as smoothly and as quickly as possible.