Used test: Kia Picanto vs Volkswagen Up: verdict

Our Verdict

The true winner here is the city car buyer, who by buying a car of this age will be picking up a great little car for not very much money. 

The Volkswagen Up remains one of our very favourite cars, and if you bought one we think you'd be delighted with it. It's agile, classy, and reliable. However, here it finishes second.

 The Picanto is definitely one of the most convincing cars in this class full stop, whether new or used, but pitched against the Up it's roomier inside and sharper to drive, and of the two its infotainment system is far superior. It comes with more luxuries too, and perhaps most importantly it gets automatic emergency braking as standard, which originally cost extra on the Up. 

It’s a close call but it's where our money would go. 

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1st – Kia Picanto

For Tidy handling; lots of kit; better infotainment; roomier interior

Against Engine needs working harder; slightly firmer ride 

Our rating 5 out of 5 stars

Read our full Kia Picanto used review

Buy a used Kia Picanto with What Car? >>

2nd – Volkswagen Up

For Punchy turbo engine; smart interior; better reliability record

Against More cramped inside; shortage of luxuries; AEB was extra cost when new

Our rating 4 out of 5 stars

Read our full Volkswagen Up used review

Buy a used Volkswagen Up with What Car? >>

Specifications: Kia Picanto 

• Engine size 1.2-litre petrol
• Power 83bhp
• Torque 90lb ft
• 0-60mph 10.9sec
• Top speed 108mph
• Fuel economy 61.4mpg (Official NEDC average)
• CO2 emissions 106g/km

Specifications: Volkswagen Up

• Engine size 0.9-litre petrol
• Power 89bhp
• Torque 118lb ft
• 0-60mph 9.6sec
• Top speed 110mph
• Fuel economy 60.1mpg (Official NEDC average)
• CO2 emissions 108g/km

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