Kia motors, Hyundai’s sister carmaker concern is one of the popular small car maker based out of Korea. Now Kia Picanto is spotted in India, thanks to our pals at RiotEngine, we have some clear shots of a lime green Picanto on test in Chennai with badges and logo masked to try and hide its identity.
The car caught on test was a Left Hand Drive. It is a possibility that the car is a test mule before company decides to convert it into a RHD for India. On the other hand, it maybe a global test mule for road test in India and not a part of Indian launch test, but nothing is official as of now.
The 2012 Picanto is spotted here wearing Tamilnadu registration and the model was designed in Germany by Kia’s team in Russelsheim. The Korean automaker, along with sister brand Hyundai, has begun developing models in India so that its products can be more competitive with the likes of Maruti Wagon R, Chevrolet Beat, Ford Figo petrol and the rest of the stiff competition Kia faces there, especially in the various hatchback segments.
Under the bonnet, internationally the car is available with 1.0 and 1.2 liter engine with power outputs going up to 85 PS. However, if ever the car makes it to India it will most definitely sport the 1.2 liter Kappa2 powerplant from the Hyundai i10. The standard transmission for all engines in new Kia Picanto is a 5-speed manual, while a 4-speed automatic gearbox is also made available in the top of the line variants.
For an emerging market like India, it won’t be a bad time for the small car specialist to make an entry. And we won’t mind having a really sporty and stylish small car as an option in our market either. With the 2012 Auto Expo not so far away, we are fancying the chances of Hyundai springing in a surprise by bringing in the Picanto and showcasing the Kia brand to the public.
Also see – Hyundai to launch facelift version of new i20 by this October
See more pictures of Kia Morning/Picanto –
Image Credit – RiotEngine
