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Best light car

The third generation Picanto proves big things can come in small packages.

By Samuel Smith
Last updated on: November 15, 2019 at 2:30 am

It might be a cliché, but the expression ‘punches above its weight’ succinctly describes the Kia Picanto S.

Winner: Kia Picanto S

Variant: S
Engine: 1.2 litre petrol
Transmission: 4-speed auto
ANCAP Safety Rating: 4 stars

The tiny Picanto packs a punch.
The tiny Picanto packs a punch.

Runners up

Second place went to the Mazda2 Maxx and the Kia Rio S placed third.

What sets it apart from the rest

The Picanto S dominated in the value for money category, finishing first for standard features and insurance cost, and equal best for pricing, depreciation and warranty.

It also scored consistently high in running and repair costs, fuel consumption, safety and braking.

Costing just $16,790, the Picanto’s outstanding value is further enhanced with an industry-leading 7 year/unlimited kilometre warranty and capped-price servicing. And if you want to drive your dollar even further, there’s a 5-speed manual transmission version for $1500 less.

Key features

  • It costs just $16,790
  • A 7-year/unlimited kilometre warranty
  • A surprisingly mature ride and handling setup
  • 6 airbags, stability control, 4-wheel disc brakes
  • Reversing camera and rear park sensors
  • A 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system
The Picanto S costs just $16,790.
The Picanto S costs just $16,790.

What it’s like to drive

The Picanto’s 1.2 litre 4 cylinder petrol engine has been carried over from the previous generation and holds its own in the city commute or zipping around the suburbs.

Kia’s 4-speed auto might seem a little old-school in an age where 6 or more ratios are common, but it’s fit for the intended purpose of an urban runabout and consistent with the budget price.

As might be expected, venturing out on the open road takes the little power plant out of its comfort zone. Cruising at the 100km/h speed limit sees more than 3000rpm dialled up on the tachometer.

How the finalists compared (scores for each category from 1-10)

Light carsKia Picanto SMazda2 MaxxKia Rio S
Pricing724
Cost of depreciation925
Running & repair costs998
Fuel consumption9108
Warranty & dealer access979
Insurance967
Standard features765
Safety666
Environment787
Seating comfort576
Space456
Practicality444
Ergonomics576
Build & finish quality565
Performance464
Ride576
Handling676
Braking666
Smoothness & quietness565
Overall average742706678

Images: Mark Rogers, Magnum Photography Australia

Is your car one of Australia’s best?

Check out the other winners of Australia’s Best Cars awards for 2019.

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See the full lineup

Check out the full list of light cars we put to the test in 2019.

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