Latest Kia Picanto and XCeed models bring streamlined engine options and boosted power
Kia has simplified its Picanto range, added a new potent engine option for the XCeed and axed the Ceed from its lineup...
As Albert Einstein once said, "everything should be made as simple as possible, but not simpler". This might have been the philosophy in the minds of the team at Kia when it decided to streamline the Kia Picanto and Kia XCeed models, which are now available with simpler trim line-ups and engine options – but also with more standard kit than before.
Indeed, the Kia Picanto has dropped both of its previous engine options – the 62bhp 1.0-litre petrol and 77bhp 1.2-litre petrol – and replaced them with a new 1.0-litre 67bhp unit, available with either a five-speed manual or five-speed automatic gearbox. That means the Picanto is now less punchy than a Toyota Aygo X, but it does outperform the entry-level Hyundai i10.
The Picanto’s trim line-up has also been simplified, with now just three to choose from: Pure, GT-Line and GT-Line S. Entry-level Pure trim replaces the previous 2 and 3 trims, which means it should get a healthy amount of standard kit including 14in wheels, automatic headlights, cruise control, heated front seats, a heated steering wheel and keyless entry.
Meanwhile, GT-Line and GT-Line S trims add sporty styling, with some larger wheels, upgraded safety tech and a panoramic sunroof.
The XCeed family car has received similar treatment. The old 138bhp 1.5-litre T-GDi petrol engine has been dropped, and its place has been taken by what Kia claims to be a more efficient 1.0-litre 113bhp unit, which comes assisted by 48-volt mild hybrid power. That means a small electric motor will add an extra boost to the petrol engine, and it should help lower your fuel bills too.
You can also now have your XCeed with a new 1.6-litre petrol engine when you opt for top-spec GT-Line S trim. With 177bhp, it’s punchier than most petrol-powered rivals, including the Skoda Kamiq and mild hybrid versions of the Volkswagen Golf.
Like the Picanto, the XCeed’s trim range has been streamlined to the three Pure, GT-Line and GT-Line S options. Pure trim again replaces the old entry-level 2 specification, and it adds a host of features including electrically adjustable folding and heated door mirrors, rain-sensing wipers, electric lumbar support for the driver’s seat, automatic air-con and an auto-dimming rear-view mirror.
Every XCeed variant comes with either a six-speed manual or seven-speed automatic gearbox – bar the 1.6-litre unit, which is matched exclusively to the latter.
Prices for the Picanto now start at £16,695, which is a slight premium over the outgoing entry-level model, but that makes sense due to the power boost. You’ll still pay less for a Picanto than you would for an i10, but the Dacia Sandero is cheaper.
The XCeed now starts at £25,165, which is, again, a slight increase on the outgoing model. Still, it undercuts most rivals, including the Golf and Seat Ateca.
Elsewhere, Kia has discontinued its Ceed and Ceed Sportswagon models, likely to make room for the upcoming Kia K4, which should act as an indirect replacement. It’ll also step aside for the launch of the Kia EV4 and upcoming EV2, the latter of which is expected to enter production in 2026.
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