South Korea’s Kia Motors will introduce new engines offering reduced CO2 emissions and improved fuel economy in its next generation Picanto, set to go on sale around the world later this year.

Making its global premiere at the Geneva Motor Show in March, new Picanto has been redesigned and re-engineered, a statement said.

Longer than the previous model, and with an extended wheelbase, new Picanto promises more passenger comfort and 27 per cent increased cargo space.  Offered for the first time with a choice of five-door and three-door body styles, it is set to redefine its position as one of the most competitive vehicles in the global ‘city car’ A-segment.

Buyers of new Picanto will be presented with a choice of four all-new super-efficient powertrains – three versions of the 1-liter, three-cylinder Kappa engine (gasoline, flex fuel and bi-fuel) and a single 1.2-liter four-cylinder gasoline Kappa power unit – depending on individual markets.

Power outputs will range from 69 to 85 ps, with maximum torque between 94 and 121 Nm.  Exhaust emissions have been significantly reduced, so that regular models in the new Picanto line-up will have a CO2 rating of 95 to 105 g/km.

The bi-fuel 1-liter engine will generate 82 ps and 94 Nm of torque.  Fuel economy will range from 4.2 to 5.9 liters per 100 km, contributing to lower running costs.

In Europe, all models will be available with Kia’s fuel-stretching ISG technologies, cutting emissions to between 90 and 100 g/km – so that every model qualifies for local emissions-based tax savings, where available – and improving fuel economy to a range of 4.1 to 5.6 liters per 100 km.

The engines will be mated to a choice of five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmissions, depending on market.

The car also features a distinctive exterior, sophisticated interior, and numerous ‘large car’ advanced comfort and safety features like LED daytime running lights, button-start with smart key, grip-type outside door handles and six or seven airbags, depending on region. – TradeArabia News Service