The front-end is an evolutionary step up from outgoing Picanto.
Based on a spyshot of the third generation Kia Picanto's undisguised front end, IAB's Shoeb R Kalania has created a rendering of the compact hatchback's new face. The Grand i10's cousin is expected to go on sale from early 2017.
The rendering gives a better look at the new Picanto's front-end, which appears to be an evolutionary step up from the outgoing model. It features a wider hexagonal radiator grille with rounded edges, wide 'tiger-nose' grille, bug-eyed headlamps with LED lighting and LED DRLs and foglamps with projector lighting. From older spyshots, it seems like the new Picanto will retain the side profile design, while the rear-end has new C-shaped tail lamps.
The third gen Picanto's engine lineup is likely to comprise of the 65 bhp 1.0-litre three-cylinder and 85 bhp 1.25-litre four-cylinder petrol engines sourced from the hatchback it's based on - the Euro-spec Hyundai i10. Both variants will feature a 5-speed manual transmission as standard and an automatic transmission as an optional upgrade.
Given that Kia is plotting an entry into the Indian market before the end of the decade, the third gen Picanto could be part of Kia India’s portfolio, marketed as a sportier alternative to the Hyundai Grand i10.
