Kia Motors South Africa has added a new 1,2-litre LS model to its local Picanto range.
The latest derivative effectively fills the gap – in terms of pricing, anyway – between the 1,0 LS and 1,0 LX models, coming in at R139 995.
For reference, the Picanto range starts at R129 995 (for the 1,0 LS) and runs through to R191 995 (for the 1,2 EX Automatic).
From the outside, the Kia Picanto 1,2 LS is identical to the 1,0 LS, featuring colour-coded door handles and side-mirrors, as well as 14-inch steel wheels with wheel covers.
Standard equipment includes air-conditioning, rake-adjustable steering, and 60:40 split folding rear seats. The 1,2 LS does not feature a radio as standard, but two front speakers (and a USB connection) are included and wired to work with an aftermarket unit.
The Picanto 1,2 LS shares its powertrain and five-speed manual transmission with the Picanto 1,2 EX, which means it has 65 kW and 120 N.m on tap. The four-cylinder mill can also be optionally mated to an automatic transmission, which bumps the price up to R152 995.
The new derivative also features a driver’s airbag and Isofix child-seat anchors in the rear, while the brand’s five-year/unlimited kilometre warranty comes standard. Options include a two-year/45 000 km service plan and a sunroof (the latter for R7 500).
