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Kia Picanto Marks 20 Years In The UK With Major 2024 Update
The Kia Picanto marks its 20th anniversary in 2024, making it one of Kia's longest-running models in the UK, following the Sportage and Sorento. The Picanto first hit UK roads in 2004, a year notable for Greece's football triumphs and the release of Shrek 2. Since then, over 260,000 units have been sold across three generations and four facelifts.
Initially launched as the Kia 'Morning' in South Korea in 2003, the car was renamed 'Picanto' for its European debut. Despite being Kia's smallest vehicle on sale in the UK, it has consistently performed well, ranking as the fourth best-selling model for Kia in the UK this year. In August 2023, it surpassed a quarter of a million lifetime sales in the UK.
The first generation of the Picanto arrived in the UK in 2004 with quirky styling and an affordable price. A minor facelift followed in 2007. However, it was during the UK's scrappage scheme from May 2009 to March 2010 that the Picanto truly gained traction, with over 22,000 units sold—a 348% increase from the previous period.
In 2010, Kia extended its seven-year, 100,000-mile warranty to include the Picanto. This move provided customers with added peace of mind and value for money. The second-generation Picanto debuted in 2011 with a more modern design and efficiency-focused features like low CO2 emissions.
The third generation of Picanto launched in the UK in 2017, bringing new engines and significant design enhancements. This version also introduced advanced tech from larger Kia models into the A-segment. The latest iteration continues this trend with a striking design inspired by Kia's premium models.
Paul Philpott, President and CEO of Kia UK Limited, commented on this milestone: "Throughout the past 20 years, the Picanto has established itself as a firm favourite among a growing number of customers. This latest version of the Picanto is no exception." He emphasised Kia’s commitment to small, cost-efficient vehicles.
Market Performance
In recent years, the Picanto has solidified its position within the UK's A-segment market. As of early 2024, it holds third place overall and second place in retail sales within its segment. It achieved an all-time-high market share of over 25% last year and maintained a strong performance with a 22% market share by year-end.
The new Picanto offers two engine options and five well-equipped specifications, including a special 'Shadow' edition revealed on June 3rd, 2024. It is available for order from all Kia dealers with deliveries starting in July.
A Look Back
The second-generation Picanto received a mild facelift in 2015 that enhanced standard equipment levels and introduced an extensive range of trims to suit various customer needs. By then, Kia had firmly established itself as a major player in the UK automotive market.
The latest model continues to build on this legacy with improved onboard tech, safety systems, comfort features, and refinement while retaining its fun character. These updates make it one of the most advanced models in its segment today.
Kia’s dedication to evolving with market demands while maintaining its unique design philosophy is evident through models like Sportage and Sorento alongside Picanto. The refreshed Picanto exemplifies this approach by borrowing design cues from larger models to appeal to modern consumers.
This week marks two decades since Mark Zuckerberg launched Facebook and Kia introduced the first-generation Picanto to UK drivers. Over these years, it has become an integral part of Kia’s lineup due to its consistent performance and adaptability to changing consumer preferences.
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