Used Kia Picanto for sale near Watford

CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 4.1 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 30.3%
Overall CarGurus rating:* 4.3 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 1,200
Average Price: Around £10,400

Kia Picanto (2017-present) 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 1 trim lacks key equipment

Quick Summary

The Kia Picanto (2017-present) is a strong contender in the city car market, offering impressive value, comfort, and safety. This third-generation model, launched in 2017, features a funky design and has undergone two facelifts (2020 and 2024) to keep it fresh. It boasts a spacious and well-built interior for its class, with a 255-litre boot that expands to 1,010 litres with the rear seats folded, making it one of the largest in its segment.

While its ride quality could be smoother compared to some rivals, the Picanto offers confident steering and easy manoeuvrability for city driving. Engine options include a 1.0-litre (66bhp) and a more capable 1.25-litre (83bhp), with a turbocharged 1.0-litre (99bhp) also available on earlier models. Running costs are low, with good fuel economy and affordable insurance premiums (groups 1-11). Kia's seven-year warranty provides excellent peace of mind, making it a well-equipped and practical choice.

Best for: Drivers on a budget, those seeking a well-equipped, practical, and comfortable city car with low running costs and a long warranty.

Not ideal for: Buyers prioritising the smoothest ride, seeking an electric city car option, or those who need a high-performance engine for frequent motorway use (with the 1.0L).


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the Picanto if: You're on a budget, seeking a well-equipped, practical, and comfortable city car with low running costs and the peace of mind of a long warranty.

Consider alternatives if: You prioritise the smoothest ride, need an electric city car, or desire a premium badge or more engaging driving dynamics than offered by the 1.0L engine.

Competitive Position: The Kia Picanto (2017-present) is a highly competitive city car, offering an excellent balance of value, practicality, and low running costs, backed by Kia's impressive seven-year warranty. While some rivals might offer a slightly smoother ride or more dynamic handling, the Picanto stands out as a complete package for budget-conscious buyers seeking a reliable and well-specced small car.

Kia Picanto Review

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