The next generation Kia Picanto benefits from greatly reduced CO2 emissions and improved fuel economy and goes on sale in the UK in late Spring.

Making its global premiere at the Geneva Motor Show in March, the new Picanto is longer than the previous model, and with an extended wheelbase, new Picanto promises more passenger comfort and 27% increased cargo space.

Offered for the first time with a choice of five-door and three-door bodystyles - the three-door will not arrive in the UK until the autumn - it is set to completely redefine its position as one of the most competitive vehicles in the ‘city car' A-segment.

Across the globe, buyers of new Picanto will have a choice of up to four all-new super-efficient powertrains - three versions of the 1-litre, three-cylinder Kappa engine (petrol, flex fuel and bi-fuel) and a single 1.2-litre four-cylinder petrol Kappa power unit. The exact choice will depend on individual markets.

Power outputs will range from 69 to 85 ps, with maximum torque between 94 and 121 Nm. Exhaust emissions have been significantly reduced, so that regular models in the new Picanto line-up will have a CO2 rating of 95 to 105 g/km. The bi-fuel 1-litre engine will generate 82 ps and 94 Nm of torque. Fuel economy for all of the engines is also improved.

In the UK, some models will be available with Kia's fuel-stretching ISG technologies, cutting emissions to between 90 and 100 g/km and further improve fuel economy.

The engines will be mated to a choice of five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmissions, depending on model.

Pricing for the UK and European markets will not be announced until closer to the launch date.

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