Kia Picanto (2004 - 2011) 1.0 GS 5d (2005/55) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

It's a bit too girly for me, but then again with a learner sign on the roof it looks highly professional. And I've saved enough on fuel to pay for a new motorbike so I don't really care!

What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

No complaints from anyone. A couple of pupils have bought them and the wifes cousin wants one.

Would you buy this car again and why?

Yes. I don't mind the image, it's a FANTASTIC learner car.

What are you likely to buy next?

Picanto again, the spec will depend on the deal I can get at the time.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Franchise

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£5,500

When did you buy the car?

February 2006

Did you get a good deal and why?

7 miles on the clock and 5 months old got me a discount of £500 and another £300 to pay for the fitting of dual controls as with a new one Kia would have supplied them.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

I'm a driving instructor who teaches group courses. I needed a smallish car, with good fuel economy that is capable of seating 4 adults! The Picanto was the only model in it's class that I could sit in the back of with the drivers seat all the way back.

What was the dealer like?

Really great service, saw it at 9.30 am, went away and thought about it. Called them back and they had it serviced and valeted for collection by the end of the day.

What's it like to drive?

It's not quick beyond about 50, especially with 3 or 4 in but it gets there briskly if you're willing to work the engine and gears. Struggles to maintain 70 up a motorway hill but you have to hold it back on the way down.

What's it like to park?

The easiest I've ever had. My pupils love it, and so does the wife who has spent most of her driving life in left-hand-drives.

Have you had any problems with the car?

Dropping out of gear after 200 miles. A bit of prodding by me had it replaced in half a day with a brand new box and not even a warranty claim form to fill in. Fuel sensor failed around the time of the bad fuel problems, replaced in a day.

What's most practical about your car?

Fits 4 adults with reasonable ease. At one point I had 3 large Royal Marines plus myself (5'11") in the car for 8 days of 6 hours a day!

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

MP3 CD player is good. Lots of little hidden storage areas make me feel happier when parked.