🇩🇪 Deutsch
Kia · Micro Car · 2017–2024

Kia Picanto JA

Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice

★★★★★
5.0 / 5.0 · Based on 2 engine variants

Generations

Engine Overview

The Kia Picanto JA is available with 2 engine variants — from 62 to 86 hp.

1.0 · Benziner· 62–67 PS
2017 2024
Good Choice 3 weaknesses
Show all weaknesses →
1.2 · Benziner· 84–86 PS
2017 2024
Good Choice 3 weaknesses
Show all weaknesses →

The Kia 1.0 (Benziner, 62–67 PS) has the G3LA (1.0L (Kappa)) — rated: "Good Choice", 3 known weaknesses.

The Kia 1.2 (Benziner, 84–86 PS) has the G4LA (1.2L (Kappa)) — rated: "Good Choice", 3 known weaknesses.

Vehicle Weaknesses

WeaknessCost
●Dipped headlights fail early

According to MOT reports, the Picanto JA's dipped headlights are repeatedly flagged. Headlamps drift out of alignment over time and bulbs fail prematurely.

Symptoms: One or both headlamps no longer illuminate or illuminate the road incorrectly; MOT advisory.
from 60,000 km
Ad Kia Picanto JA headlightKia Picanto JA Abblendlicht Birne H4
 Low
●Small battery drains during parking periods

The Picanto JA has a relatively small 12V starter battery that is sensitive to long standstill periods and cold. After just a few days without driving, the battery can drop below starting voltage.

Symptoms: Vehicle won't start after several days of parking; start-stop system not working; immobiliser activates.
from 50,000 km
Ad Kia Picanto JA starter batteryKia Picanto battery 45Ah
 Low

Alternatives

Same Segment

Toyota Aygo X AB70

Kleinstwagen (2022–2025)

Same Segment

Smart ForTwo 453-FL

Kleinstwagen (2020–2024)

Same Segment

Suzuki Ignis II-FL

Kleinstwagen (2020–2025)

Same Segment

Hyundai i10 AC3

Kleinstwagen (2019–2025)

Same Segment

Suzuki Ignis II

Kleinstwagen (2017–2020)

Same Segment

Ford Ka Ka+

Kleinstwagen (2016–2019)

Known Problems and Issues

A total of 13 weaknesses have been documented for the Kia Picanto JA (2017–2024) — 6 engine-related and 7 vehicle-related. Typical issues affect Electronics, HVAC, Steering, Other. Considered reliable: G3LA (1.0L (Kappa)), G4LA (1.2L (Kappa)).

What to watch out for with the Kia Picanto? See the detailed listing of all engine and vehicle weaknesses in the sections above.

Frequently Asked Questions

What problems and weaknesses does the Kia Picanto JA have? +
The Kia Picanto JA has 6 known engine weaknesses and 7 vehicle weaknesses.
What should I look for when buying a used Kia Picanto JA? +
faq.watch_a_solid
Which engine is recommended? +
Good choice: G3LA (1.0L (Kappa)), G4LA (1.2L (Kappa)). The most reliable engine is the G3LA (1.0L (Kappa)) with the lowest risk score. The most fun to drive is the G4LA (1.2L (Kappa)).
Which Kia Picanto JA engine is the most reliable? +
The {code} ({displacement}) is the most reliable engine in the Kia Picanto JA. It has the lowest risk score of all available engines and is rated "Good Choice". However, there are 3 known weaknesses to be aware of.
Which Kia Picanto JA engine is the most fun? +
The {code} ({displacement}) offers the most driving fun in the Kia Picanto JA — rated: "Decent". {description} 84 hp NA makes the Picanto livelier than the 67 hp base and is enough for relaxed city driving. No sport, but likeable.
Is the Kia Picanto JA worth buying used? +
The Kia Picanto JA is a good choice as a used car — 2 of 2 engine variants are rated 'Good Choice'.
What horsepower variants are available for the Kia Picanto JA? +
The Kia Picanto JA is available with engine variants from 62 to 86 hp. Petrol: G3LA (1.0L (Kappa)), G4LA (1.2L (Kappa)).

Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee