One doesn't really have to explain that 'Picanto' means 'Spicy', but is the smallest Kia really spicy? Over the years, since 2004, it has at least developed in that direction. Indeed, at the moment it's having to battle it out with the competition, the structurally identical Hyundai i10, which at the moment seems to be winning nearly all the comparison-tests. The advantage for the Picanto, is that it's also available as a three-door. This however, only gives it a lower starting price. Otherwise, we can speak here, of a common platform, this also includes the two engines. The i10 is however, somewhat longer and with 40 litres, the fuel tank is larger. The sport-version should now also be combinable, Kia exterior, Hyundai interior. Indeed, after the conversion to Euro 6, only the three-cylinder suffered a little and had to forfeit 2,2 kW (3 HP). Astonishingly enough, through this fairly modest facelift, a good drag coefficient is still achieved and it even led to an increase in the top speed of 5 km/h. How fortunate that Kia, in contrast to Hyundai, does not offer the smaller engines with the outdated automatic transmission, because this fossil would drain off its last power reserves. One of the further advantages to be mentioned, is the 7-year guarantee (Hyundai 5 years). The steering ratio is shorter and the car has a tighter turning circle. It is doubtful, whether one will even notice the lack of knee airbags. Apart from this, for a vehicle that only measures 3,6 meters, the Kia remains a surprisingly roomy car and is suitable for longer trips, and not only those with the larger engines. With the LPG-version, even the fuel costs can be cut. However, the good looking headlamps can't hide the fact that the cars in the A-segment with their narrow tyres, certainly won't win any prizes for short braking distances. Kia doesn't even state whether the front disc-brakes are ventilated or not, Hyundai, on the other hand does. Whatever the case may be, at a speed of 100km/h, it could easily mean a difference of 5 meters or more. 08/15