Used Kia Picanto for sale near Cheltenham

CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 4.5 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 34.0%
Overall CarGurus rating:* 4.3 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 1,300
Average Price: Around £10,400

Kia Picanto (2017-2026) Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Decent-sized boot for a city car	Ride could be smoother
Long warranty from new	No electric version
Low running costs	Entry-level trim lacks key equipment

Quick Summary

The Kia Picanto (2017-2026) is a funky-looking city car that delivers excellent value without sacrificing comfort or safety. This third-generation model offers a spacious interior with solid build quality, a generous 255-litre boot (expanding to 1,010 litres with rear seats folded), and a wide choice of trim levels. Early models featured multiple engine options including a 66bhp 1.0-litre, a 83bhp 1.25-litre, and a 99bhp turbocharged 1.0-litre T-GDi, though the current generation offers only the 1.0-litre petrol engine. The Picanto has received two facelifts (2020 and 2024) to keep it fresh and competitive.

The Picanto delivers comfortable, composed driving with light steering ideal for town manoeuvring, though the ride could be smoother compared to rivals like the Hyundai i10. Real-world fuel economy averages around 50mpg from the 1.0-litre engine, with the turbocharged version achieving approximately 45mpg. Insurance premiums are very affordable, sitting between groups 1 and 11 of 50. As a second-hand buy, earlier examples offer greater engine variety and represent outstanding value, backed by Kia's renowned seven-year warranty and excellent reliability record. Mid-range trims and above provide well-equipped, comfortable motoring at an accessible price point.

Best for: Budget-conscious buyers seeking a practical, well-equipped city car with low running costs, excellent warranty coverage, and reliable performance for urban commuting and everyday driving.

Not ideal for: Drivers prioritising the smoothest ride quality, those seeking an electric option, or buyers wanting the most engaging driving dynamics compared to rivals like the Volkswagen Up.


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the Picanto if: You're seeking a practical, well-equipped city car with low running costs, excellent warranty coverage, and reliable performance for urban commuting and everyday driving.

Consider alternatives if: You prioritise the smoothest ride quality, require an electric option, or want the most engaging driving dynamics compared to rivals like the Volkswagen Up.

Competitive Position: The Kia Picanto (2017-2026) is a strong contender in the city car segment, offering excellent value, practicality, and a comprehensive warranty. Whilst the Hyundai i10 edges ahead with superior ride quality and a five-star expert rating, the Picanto remains a complete package with better equipment levels on mid-range trims and comparable user satisfaction. It outperforms the Suzuki Celerio and represents a more affordable alternative to premium brands, making it an intelligent choice for budget-conscious buyers who prioritise reliability and warranty protection over driving dynamics.

Read our full Kia Picanto Review

*The Overall CarGurus rating: that informs these recommendations is based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from April 2026, CarGurus expert reviews, and CarGurus user reviews.