Kia Picanto vs Hyundai i10

When it comes to compact cars, an array of options spring to mind, offering efficient and nimble solutions for urban mobility. In particular, the Kia Picanto and Hyundai i10 stand out as formidable contenders, each boasting a blend of style, efficiency, and practicality. But which one comes out on top?

In this comprehensive comparison, GB Vehicle Leasing explore the distinct features, performance metrics, and design elements that set the Kia Picanto and Hyundai i10 apart. Both vehicles originate from the South Korean automotive giants Kia and Hyundai, renowned for their commitment to quality and innovation. Yet, they exhibit unique personalities that cater to diverse preferences and lifestyles. So, join us as we navigate the intricate landscape of the Kia Picanto vs Hyundai i10 showdown.

A Brief History

The Kia Picanto has a rich history dating back to its introduction in 2004. Originally launched as a replacement for the Kia Visto, it quickly gained recognition for its compact dimensions, fuel efficiency, and affordable price tag. Over the years, the Picanto underwent several facelifts and updates, evolving to meet the changing demands of consumers worldwide.

In 2007, the Hyundai i10 made its debut, designed as a successor to the Hyundai Atos. Like the Kia Picanto, the i10 has received numerous updates and enhancements, solidifying its position as a top contender in its segment. As Hyundai's smallest offering, the i10 aimed to cater to urban commuters and city dwellers seeking practicality and affordability.

Exterior Design & Dimensions

The exterior designs of these two cars reflect the modern approach to compact car styling. With the Kia Picanto, its exterior design exudes a youthful charm with its playful yet sporty lines. The latest generation showcases a more assertive stance with its sculpted body panels, bold character lines, and distinctive front grille.

On the other hand, this Hyundai car boasts a more mature and classic exterior design. The front grille, though not as pronounced as the Picanto's, maintains a sleek appearance. The body contours are more subtle, emphasising a sense of simplicity and functionality. Measuring at 3.67m in length, 1.68m in width, and standing at a height of 1.48m, the Hyundai i10 surpasses the Kia Picanto in every dimension, showcasing its slightly larger size overall.

Interior & Features

The interiors of the Kia Picanto and Hyundai i10 exemplify a fusion of functionality, comfort, and modern technology, catering to the diverse needs of urban drivers. Starting with the Kia Picanto, stepping inside reveals a cleverly designed interior with a blend of functionality and style. Every variant offers Bluetooth and USB connectors as standard, ensuring seamless connectivity for your devices. However, for a more comprehensive infotainment experience, upgrading to the higher spec is necessary. Also, the Picanto comes with a 255-litre boot capacity, and all models feature rear seats that fold and split in a 60:40 configuration, enhancing versatility.

Shifting focus to the Hyundai i10, the interior exudes a sense of refinement and functionality. The driver's seat boasts excellent height adjustment and ample support, ensuring a comfortable driving position. Furthermore, the front cabin has numerous storage options, providing convenient places to stow away essentials. With a 252-litre boot capacity, the i10 offers sufficient space for luggage or groceries, complemented by rear seats that split in a 60:40 configuration, like the Picanto.

Hyundai maintains its reputation for high build quality in the i10, while it features a sharp 8.0” infotainment system. This is often considered better than the Picanto’s system due to its crisp graphics. In summary, the Hyundai i10's interior combines spaciousness, comfort, and cutting-edge technology, making it a compelling choice for urban drivers seeking practicality and modern features.

Engines & Driving Experience

Under the bonnet, the Hyundai i10 offers a choice of two efficient petrol engines, designed to cater to various driving preferences. Drivers can opt for the 1.0-litre 3-cylinder engine, perfect for city commuting with its nimble performance and impressive efficiency. For those seeking a bit more power and responsiveness, the 1.2-litre 4-cylinder engine delivers a smoother and more refined drive, making it well-suited for longer journeys and motorway cruising. One of the key features of the i10 is its excellent fuel economy, ensuring fewer stops at the pump. For instance, the Hyundai i10 Hatchback 1.0 Advance 5dr achieves an impressive 55.4mpg (WLTP combined), making it a cost-effective choice for budget-conscious drivers.

Similarly, the Kia Picanto offers efficient and reliable petrol engines. You can choose between two engine options: a 1.0-litre engine and a 1.2-litre engine, both known for their balance of performance and fuel efficiency. Both engines are available with either a manual gearbox or automatic transmission. When it comes to the driving experience, the Picanto excels in urban environments. Its compact size, light steering, and tight turning circle make manoeuvring through traffic and parking effortless.

Overall, the Hyundai i10 and Kia Picanto offer similar driving experiences, as they share platforms and engines. The Picanto feels slightly sportier with firmer suspension, while the i10 provides a smoother, more comfortable ride. Both are agile, efficient, and easy to drive, making them excellent city car choices.

Reliability

When comparing the Hyundai i10 and Kia Picanto for reliability, both cars stand out for their durability as they share much of the same engineering and quality standards. The i10 is known for its solid build quality, with many owners reporting minimal issues over time, backed by a 5-year unlimited mileage warranty for added peace of mind. The Picanto, similarly, is praised for its dependable nature, also supported by a 7-year/100,000 warranty, which is one of the best in the industry. Both cars come with efficient engines and are generally inexpensive to maintain.

Find out more about the reliability of Hyundai cars, here.

Price UK

When it comes to pricing, both present as affordable option in the compact car segment. The Kia Picanto enters the market with an enticing starting price of £15,845, positioning itself as an affordable yet feature-packed option for potential customers. On the other hand, the Hyundai i10 begins at a slightly higher base price of but offering additional features and refinements that may justify the premium for some drivers.

The Kia Picanto offers a diverse range of trim levels, including 2, 3, GT-Line, and GT-Line S, plus a special edition called Shadow. This extensive lineup ensures that potential customers can choose a configuration that aligns with their specific preferences and requirements. Notably, the GT-Line from £16,995 and GT-Line S from £18,695, with their sportier and trendier attributes, are likely to attract a younger audience seeking a more dynamic driving experience. In contrast, the latest Hyundai i10 has three distinct trims: Advance, Premium, and N Line. The N Line, in particular, stands out as the sportiest option in the lineup with exclusive N Line features and starts from £18,630.

*All prices mentioned include VAT

Our Verdict: Kia Picanto or Hyundai i10?

Both the Kia Picanto and Hyundai i10 are excellent city cars, offering affordability, efficiency, and modern features. The Picanto stands out for its sporty design, nimble handling, and longer 7-year/100,000 warranty, making it ideal for urban drivers seeking style and peace of mind. Meanwhile, the Hyundai i10 offers a spacious interior, refined driving experience, and 5-year unlimited mileage warranty, appealing to those prioritising comfort. Ultimately, the final decision depends on personal preferences.

Contact GB Vehicle Leasing

If you're looking to find the perfect Hyundai i10 or Kia Picanto, get in touch with us today or explore our latest car leasing offers. At GB Vehicle Leasing, we provide highly competitive rates on both models, often with a selection of in-stock vehicles ready for quick delivery. Don't just choose a car - experience a drive that combines practicality, style, and efficiency. Plus, our expert team is here to help you navigate your leasing options, answer any questions, and assist in choosing the model that best suits your needs.