Does the freshly restyled 2024 Kia Picanto have what it takes to dethrone the Fiat 500, the undisputed queen of urban sales? Our detailed comparison helps you choose the best city car for your city trips.
Segment A: a changing market
Although the A segment of urban vehicles is experiencing a decline in supply, some models remain very popular. The Fiat 500 sold 15,877 units in Spain alone last year. The new Kia Picanto, meanwhile, aims to dethrone the Italian in this competitive market.
To determine the best purchase option this year, we compared these two models on several criteria: dimensions, trunk capacity, engines, standard equipment and price.
Dimensions and habitability
The Kia Picanto 2024, in its third generation, has the following characteristics:– Length: 3,605 mm– Width: 1,595 mm– Height: 1,485 mm– Wheelbase: 2,400 mm– Body: 5 doors– Seats: 5
The Fiat 500, in its first modern generation (since 2007), has these measurements:– Length: 3,570 mm– Width: 1,625 mm– Height: 1,490 mm– Wheelbase: 2,300 mm– Body: 3 doors (coupe and convertible)– Seats: 4 (2+2)
Loading capacity
The Kia Picanto offers a 255-litre boot, expandable to 1,000 litres with the rear seats folded down. The Fiat 500 offers a more limited 185-litre load space, with an unspecified capacity when the rear seats are folded down.
Proposed engines
The 2024 Kia Picanto offers two petrol options:– 1.0 DPI 3-cylinder, 63 hp, manual or 5-speed automatic transmission, average consumption of 4.8 l/100 km– 1.2 4-cylinder, 79 hp, same transmission options, consumption of 5.1 l/100 km
The Fiat 500 is limited to a single engine: – 1.0 3-cylinder petrol, 70 hp, with mild hybrid technology – 6-speed manual gearbox – Approved consumption of 4.8 l/100 km – ECO label from the DGT (equivalent to Crit'Air 1 in France)
Standard equipment
The Kia Picanto (Concept finish) offers:– Electric windows– Emergency braking assistant with pedestrian detection– Tyre pressure monitoring– Speed limit recognition– 14-inch steel wheels– Light sensor– Electric mirrors– Air conditioning– Lane keeping assistance– Reversing camera– Cruise control– Multimedia system with 8-inch touchscreen, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay– Rear parking sensors
The entry-level Fiat 500 offers:– 14-inch steel wheels– Air conditioning– Multifunction steering wheel– Front electric windows– On-board computer– Bluetooth radio– LED daytime running lights
Pricing
– Kia Picanto: from €14,760 for the Concept version with 1.0 DPI 63 hp engine– Fiat 500: from €16,800 for the entry-level version with 1.0 70 hp mild hybrid engine
Comparative analysis
Dimensions and practicality: The Kia Picanto is slightly longer (+35 mm) and has a longer wheelbase (+100 mm), while the Fiat 500 is slightly wider (+30 mm) and taller (+5 mm). The Picanto wins in terms of practicality with its 5 doors, 5 seats and a larger trunk (+70 liters).
Engines: Although the Picanto offers a more powerful option, the Fiat 500 has a significant advantage with its mild hybrid powertrain and ECO label, which is particularly beneficial for low-emission urban driving.
Equipment: The Kia Picanto offers significantly more standard equipment, both in terms of comfort, safety and connectivity, despite a base price €2,000 lower than that of the Fiat 500.
Conclusion: a choice between practicality and ecology
The choice between these two models will depend on the buyer's priorities:
– The 2024 Kia Picanto stands out for its practicality, generous equipment and attractive price. It will be perfect for families or drivers who prioritize space and versatility.
– The Fiat 500, despite a higher price and limited basic equipment, retains its appeal thanks to its iconic design, hybrid engine and ECO label. It will appeal to drivers who are concerned about their environmental impact and appreciate a distinctive style.
Ultimately, while the 2024 Kia Picanto has a strong case for conquering the city car market, the Fiat 500 still has some unique assets that could help it maintain its leadership position, especially in urban areas where traffic restrictions are increasing.