The world’s coolest micro hot hatch is no more, with Kia Australia confirming the GT will be discontinued as part of the launch of a fresh faced 2024 Picanto. A revised GT-Line will now sit above a base model in a two variant range.
Now with a bolder, more modern design, the next generation Picanto comes with a new light signature, front bumper, refreshed ‘tiger nose’, and redesigned fenders and bonnet. Optional LED headlights and DRLs enhance the look.
At the rear are redesigned rear lights and a new bumper. The base model, known simply as Picanto, comes comes with 14-inch wheels as standard, or optional 14-inch or 15-inch alloy wheels, or 16-inch wheels.
The GT Line’s presence is strengthened with a confident front end that emphasis sporty elements. The tiger nose grille has been expanded to maximise the look of high performance, with dedicated 16-inch diamond cut wheels, and a sporty rear diffuser.
A choice of ten vibrant paint finishes enables Picanto to stand out, including Iced Illusion and Rich Brown. Two engines (a 1.0-litre or 1.2-litre petrol motor) will be offered, with both driving the front wheels. A 5-speed manual or Kia’s automated manual will be offered.
The latter is based on a 5-speed manual, with clutch and gear shift actuators automating their respective functions. The little hatch’s trademark quick, enjoyable handling responses will continue with the new model too.
Independent MacPherson strut suspension at the front and a torsion beam rear axle feature, and are paired with a quick steering rack for more agile handling. The Picanto now also offers torque vectoring by braking, to reduce understeer during harder cornering.
On the tech front, an 8.0-inch ‘floating’ touchscreen navigation system and a digital display in the driver’s instrument cluster are now included. The former features Bluetooth multi-connection and wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard.
Kia Connect, which provides live traffic, weather forecasts, and even helps find parking spots, is also included, along with voice recognition that supports real-time routing, and app connectivity (the latter allowing for last mile navigation after you’ve parked your car).
Over-the-air functionality also allows for updating of navigation and infotainment systems. Additional safety features also find their way into the 2024 Picanto, including forward collision avoidance with vehicle, cyclist, and pedestrian detection (variant dependent).
Blind spot collision avoidance assist, lane keep assist, driver attention warning and leading vehicle departure warning all feature, as does intelligent speed limit assist and lane following assist. Rear cross traffic collision avoidance assist is also included.
Hill start assist is additionally included, as are vehicle stability and corner brake control. Local pricing and final specifications will be confirmed closer to the 2024 Kia Picanto’s Australian launch in Q4 of this year.
