@@leenevin8451 they aren't though really, it's that they are usually driven by drivers who are too slow. I imagine if one was driven by a car thief on the run, I would be scared to try and keep up with them. I mean they are no lamborghini, but this is the type of person who the sound of a lamborghini engine would frighten them so they'd drive the lamborghini at 40 in top gear.
@@leenevin8451 I've noticed the same thing with some cyclists - pedaling at 40 rpm with a low seat and wondering why they are completely gutless on hills.
This is crazy. I passed my driving test a few months ago and my first car is a 2011 KIA picanto so an older model then this as I can’t afford anything more expensive. The space is perfect for me as a 19 year old and it’s been great to drive around. I highly recommend it as a first driver. I’m really happy with my car but I have definitely been the victim of certain drivers which I’d say is the only downside but as long as you ignore them and drive safe around them it’s normally okay. I did keep stalling it when I kept driving it but that came with getting used to the clutch. It’s been a few weeks now and I’m definitely more confident with it and am starting to love it as a first car. It’s really easy to drive and crazy easy to park I haven’t had any issues. I hope you all find the car right for you this is just my experience.
I recently took one for a test drive and I stalled it first time because the clutch grabs rather quickly, but I did like the car and ordered one, the GT Line S. I am sure I will get used to the clutch, like you.
My wife has had three Picantos that she used for driving instruction and general use including quite a few long trips. All have been totally reliable - one had an aircon fault fixed under warranty but that was just a noisy bearing, it still worked. The first was identical to this one, a 1.0 that we found a little underpowered and learners tended to stall. The other two were/are 1.2 four-cylinder, and while still not rocket ships they’re much more flexible. Meanwhile my daughter bought a 1.0 Turbo version of the latest model, and that’s a lot of fun to drive, highly recommended but maybe not quite as cheap to insure.
@@devonmantimtim8263 They are very reliable. I've had two Picanto's and haven't had a problem with either of them. People do change cars for other reasons than them being unreliable, sometimes they simply want a newer model.
our friend ashley has moved on to car reviews. however, i do have to take issue with this persistent myth that small cars are beginner cars, or "first" cars. they are great cars for anyone. being small, they are extremely easy to handle and they can squeeze into small spots in towns and cities. they generally have low tax, insurance, and running costs too. i've been driving a small car for 12 years, and it's been very cheap to run compared to other cars.
They are also more fun to drive than larger cars, especially along twisty country lanes where moderate speeds can be enjoyable and feel a fair bit faster.
I own a Picanto and use it regularly for driving to work, I drive about 40 miles a day 5 days a week and I only have to refuel once a week. the only issue I have with it and this might just be my car is that sometimes the voice command feature doesn't work but apart from that great car, would highly recommend
Brilliant review! This is my first car, same engine but on a 64 plate. Been driving it for the past 4 years and you hit every nail on the head regarding turning circle, power and what the car is designed for. 👍
This is my current (first) car. Super easy to drive and surprisenly large inside, I'm 6"2 and fit in fine. My only gripe would be the accelaration can be horrendous sometimes, but can't expect much with about 70hp under the bonnet. Because it's so small driving around Edinburgh is also super easy, I can squeeze through gaps that others in even minis couldn't. Makes it good for parking too. I get around 55mpg on average, and the road tax and insurance are also cheap as well.
That was a very good review Ash. I'm sure you know what sort of cars students want to get once they pass their test and a bit of sense and practicality is very good advice. You definitely should review more cars if you can. You have a totally different attitude to cars and driving compared to the regular reviewers and your views are excellent advice to new drivers and experienced ones. I was exactly the same when I passed in 1975 and had to get an Escort. But all the examples I saw were rusty and tatty. I bought an Austin 1100, a Grandma's car, and was so worried about the reaction of my friends. But that car was good for work, driving long distances and was full of guys on pub nights. It was a great first car and only slightly bigger inside than that Kia. I wouldn't buy one but maybe I would get something similar when I get older.
This would be the perfect first car IMO. It’s: .stable .cheap to insure,buy and run . Quick enough . Reliable and has a long warranty . Easy to drive . Little so easy to park . Has just about enough room for friends Plus having ridden in one it feels less like a tin can on wheels than something like a C1 or Aygo lol
Not that cheap to insure, my daughter is 17 and about to take her test, the cheapest car we found for her to insure is a 1.8TDCI Ford Focus mk2.5 it was cheaper to insure than all of the small cars with tiny engines.
I had a 2004 Kia Picanto which had a 1.1L engine with 64bhp, it was very good and reliable, but just lacked power. I then got a 2016 Kia Picanto with a 1.25L engine with 86bhp and is a lot more nippy and comes with a lot of extras even heated steering wheel and climate control. If that still doesn't satisfy you they now have a 1L turbo with 99bhp and a lot more extras
As a first car the Picanto is actually great. Surprisingly spacious and capable for it's size. Just wish it had a more powerful radio to power the speakers and more power to get you out of dangerous situations when power is needed.
How safe is it? I would rather my boy drives a Sportage. Hopefully he will not have an accident, but a larger vehicle is generally safer. I know where you're coming from though. My first car was a Dihatsu Charade. Smaller still.
imo the VW UP! is the perfect first car. It looks pretty good, group 1 insurance, safe and reliable, cheap to run, a pleasure to drive and there are plenty of good examples of them out there to be had used for around the 3k mark right now.
I agree. I have the Up! TSI, which has a turbo, and it is great to drive, other people who have driven it also commented on how good it is. Unfortunately the TSI is no longer made, so if you want a decent amount of power in a new car you are limited to the GTI version.
@@SF-rs3xm The Kia is a much better built car than the VW, VW UP suffers bad gearboxes, clutches and needs the drains unblocked regularly to prevent leaks.
I'm wary of those little cars based on that VAG platform or the similar Peugeot/Citroen/Toyota models, they're driven savagely any time I see them out on the roads. I'm sure engineering today can take the ringing those engines are given, but I'll pass.
I’m a new young driver and I’ve got a 2008 Kia Picanto 2, I highly recommend. My only complaint is the clutch felt very different and difficult to use at first because I was so used to newer clutches so but I got used to it quickly. Very easy to drive and park due to it being so small.
My wife got one of these (Picanto 3) and it's amazing for around town! Really fun to drive too and use our bigger car for longer journeys. My favourite feature is the insanely small turning circle and the boot size considering it's small size. 1.2 4 cylinder is the bigger engine
My brother and mother both have Ford Fiestas in Ferrari red. Mum has the 1.2 and my brother has the 1.0 Ecoboost. I have a Citroen C2 1.1 and dad has a 2.0TFCI Ford Mondeo estate - a bit longer and probably worse in tight maneuvers.
@@fivish I was curious about that. I have never heard of a car that struggled to do 70 mph (apart from a Renault Twizy which I wouldn't take on the motorway although it's technically legal to in UK), and most motorways don't have steep hills, nor do they require you to be out of the passing lane in a hurry before an oncoming car as the opposite side is entirely segregated. Some of the little ones feel a bit blustery in lots of wind and a bit noisy on the road, though it reminds me that I'm piloting a big metal container down the road and not curled up in front of a warm cosy wood burning stove about to go to sleep. As for acceleration, well nothing accelerates more poorly than an HGV and they use the motorways in droves.
This looks like a great city car, nothing wrong with these small 1 litre engines. Bought my first car a couple of weeks ago and was lucky enough to get a 2013 Fiesta with the 99hp 1 litre and it's incredible.
Bought one of these for my wife since she didn't like driving my bigger car. Fantastic little car. We had a Skoda citigo and like the Picanto it is brilliant on the motorway.
I got a 6 month warranty on my first car when I bought it. It was already 13 years old at the time and 12 years on I still have it and has given me little trouble in that time 😃
This will be a very useful video for a lot of people fresh from passing their tests or simply looking for their first cheap runabout to get them on the road and off their parents's insurance. I've had two Fiat Pandas (probably an obvious rival of the Picanto featured here) and they've been great. Reliable, cheap parts, decent practicality and visibility only bettered by a greenhouse. And - while not really a huge priority - pretty fun to drive. Four cylinder engine in most of em so a bit smoother.
I drive a 1999 Seat Arosa with a 1 litre engine I paid £300 for it, I think it’s a great little car for being 21 years old I’ve owned it for just under a year and its been amazingly reliable I’ve only spent £90 on a service (brake servo pipe and resurfacing the rear drums) and £120 on four new tyres. I’m still on L plates at the minute as I’m waiting for my test which is in November thanks to the covid back log.
Had a Ceed for 9 years, replaced that with a Rio which we have had for 3 years. Only thing to go wrong was a snapped clutch pedal spring in the Rio which was replaced under warranty. Kia’s are getting a bit pricey now, we bought a Dacia Duster 1.3 as a second car. I’d imagine the Sandero would be a good first car.
My first car, and the car I have now, is the old model citroen c1. It's a brilliant little car if you get a good spec one. I have the vt spec which is the basic model and doesn't have electric windows, no AC, no Bluetooth, no rev counter no back doors or back windows that open or any central locking. Unfortunately my car has had problems over the last year of ownership. The breaks have started to squeak, the clutch is on its way out, the wheel alignment is slightly off and my front suspension units are slightly corroded. I have had one or two problems handling wise. When driving above 60mph the car moves around and the car gets blown around by larger vehicles driving past
Excellent review, really interesting. Was that the car you did the MOT video with? Definitely something nice about a smaller engined naturally aspirated petrol car, reminds me of my mum's Citroën AX which I loved driving. Is part of the difference with the brakes that your BMW has disc brakes all round whereas the Kia doesn't? I think that makes quite a difference with the braking characteristics of any car - I certainly notice the difference between my Skoda and my wife's Fiesta. Thanks again - looking forward to the next car review!
Have owned a VR7 version of this car from new (14) - it has built in reversing sensors, all electric windows, etc. Has now covered 178,000 miles - still on original clutch, great brakes (discs all round), has been totally reliable - only needed a new catalytic converter (at 95,000/2 years old) - under warranty. Used to drive to work - 123 miles there and back. Road Tax = £0.00. Good review. Have a Vitara AllGrip but still use this for work which is now far more local - thank goodness.
This is the base model. There are several models above it with the top ones being the sporty GT-Line and the off-roadish X-Line, and to be honest, they are leagues above the base one in both looks and fuctionality.
I'm in the market for my first car and I'm thinking of going with the Honda CR-Z, its different and stylish (I have never actually seen one on Irish roads), 1.5 petrol hybrid, tons of extras like AC, Cruise Control, Parking Sensors. It is also a Honda so it should be pretty reliable. The Kia is nice though!
I've got a CRZ and had it for 5 years ( 60,000 miles ) Full Honda service history which isn't not too expensive either at the dealership . Not had a moments trouble and everything still works perfectly and I still get people asking " what's that" . Try and get the later 119 bhp version ( 13 plate onwards ) as the battery pack is more efficient and a bit quicker . Bought it for the quirkiness but you'd have to prize it off me now.
Should probably note; the warranty is only valid as long as the car has a full dealer (Kia) service history, which while recently looking for a used car seems to be becoming increasingly rare.
No. They can't enforce only having a Kia history. They have to allow independent garages to service to maintain warranty as long as they follow the manufacturer service schedules and use OEM quality parts. That is under the block exemption rules.
I've got a 71 plate Kia picanto as my first car and I have to say it's brilliant. It has everything you need and it can get in anywhere without any problem. Its an auto due to me having a disability but her gear change is spot on.
I've got the GT Line S Picanto and love it, great performance and economy with quite a lot of tech as standard that even some premium brands only offer as extras
I never drove this model, but I did have my lessons in a Kia Rio with 1.2l engine, I remember everything being very unhelpful let's just say, the steering- no feedback, the clutch, hard to feel, the gear shifter, again, hard to feel, one I did the test and started driving a Focus, later Mazda 6, all the issues with stalling etc. disappeared, so I do believe that stiffer pedals etc. can be quite beneficial to a new driver actually.
@@SF-rs3xm nah, in general they are good quality etc. and good value, bit the econo boxes are very, I don't know what word to use, numb? to drive, I assume the better ones like Kia Cee'd for example is not as bad in this regard, but Hiundai i40 I drove recently was the same as the Kia Rio- no feedback at all, just a lot higher quality overall.
For me the Picanto is a bit difficult to drive, I have a big problem with the car stalling… I used to drive a Diesel, so its a big change but I keep stalling my Kia :(
An instructor in my area teaches in one of those. Seem like decent little cars. I'm sure the hyundai i10 (same car underneath) would be similar to drive. My 1.2 clio is the same power wise, if you draw all you can from the engine, she goes fine. Just means the fuel economy is sacrificed somewhat, but it's not to bad. Any chance of a review on the A class?
I test drove the KIA Picanto and the i10 for my first car, and I felt like the i10 just had that extra bit of oomph when driving. KIA also has VERY sensitive brakes, I found, but the KIA has a really comfy interior
I still have my first car 7 years later xD. I bought a reasonably new car (2 years old, 10,000 miles) and promised I'd keep it till it's uneconomical to repair. It still does everything I need it to do. Only thing I regret is getting a 3 door Aygo instead of a 5 door but still manage if I need to take passengers. Services for my Aygo range from £25-£50 because I do them myself which is another reason why I wanted keep my first car for its life, I have kept a full service record just it's hand written by me and is probably more thorough then a garage since I now tend to service every 5000-6000 miles instead of 10,000 miles since it now has 83,000 miles on the clock and I reduced the intervals around 60,000 miles (it burns oil and instead of topping it up halfway through a service interval I now just do a full oil change, especially since I was seeing allot of thick oil sludge at 10,000 miles). The Aygo only takes 2.5-3L of oil so it costs about £12-20 in oil and £5 for a filter. Air filters and spark plugs are reasonably cheap as well.
@@lennydicko they're pretty good little cars, the build quality isn't amazing but most of the parts are reasonably cheap to replace. If you can get past the lack of power (assuming you've not got the new 1.2L) they're good. I've replaced the rear muffler twice, the first time the mounting stud snapped and the 2nd muffler recently corroded and formed a hole, the exhaust centre pipe mounting stud recently snapped too and replaced that... The muffler was about £35 and the center pipe was about £45. I've spray painted the muffler with an anti corrosion exhaust paint this time so hopefully it lasts longer! I doubt it though 🤣
My first car was an inherited V reg Corsa made of steel and rust. Thing was a tank, had over 850 000 miles on the clock and was virtually indestructible. No power steering made for fun with how heavy a car it was for its size lol. One of my coworker's first car was a Suzuki Swift, the newer ones are actually pretty nice motors, and also an ideal car for new drivers. Other good first motors include the VW Up! (I believe its "Jump!" outside of the UK) Ford Ka, maybe the Renault Twingo as well. Basically any compact car from a reputable (but not "luxurious") brand, sporting a 1.0L engine or smaller will do a good job whilst being cheap to run
Have you ever done a video on mirror positioning? I (and everyone I talked about it with) was taught to put the mirrors so you can see your door handles from a central seating position. But I've seen some people claim that's actually wrong and they should be further out. What's your thoughts on that? Edit: I just found your video of 2017. Very informative.
I got an I20, 1.2, 11 plate, cost 2k, only thing need this year was an oil change and service, passes MOT with no adviser, passed clean on emissions so very little cost and with 30-60mpg its not bad, bigger boot than the kia. my i20 is 30 year tax, fits in the clean air exemptions, group 9 insurance whats gone from group 7or8 just over a year ago, the weight is only 1045kg with 78bhp and 90 torque. never had in issue of being to slow joining a fast road if willing to use lot more gear and block changing you can easy keep up with modern traffic . had diesel for my first car, going back to diesel for my 3rd car and from japan. going back to diesel due to most my driving is in wales and mountains to climb so lots up down gears currently, a workout compared to my old diesel
I have the Hyundai i30 1.6 deisel (110bhp) and I love it! had it 7 years and not had many faults with it, and its great for long journeys as it has plenty of power and is very comfy
Great little car. Very cheap to own and run. We have a 2014 Picanto 3 door, which our daughter is now using as we have an electric car. You Can easily get 50 mpg from this car. Ours was the VR7 special edition, which has standard fit reversing beepers so they are on some Picantos, you just have to look at the specs when you look at one. There are quite a few different specs around. Ours was zero tax, so check when looking. They also have a cam chain so no worry about cam belt changes (unless later models had a different engine specification) . The 7 year warranty is well worth it on a secondhand example. We had an older 2004 picanto previously and not one thing went wrong and it had over 100,000 miles when we sold it, however the 2014 VR7 had a couple of issues and these were sorted out under warranty at a Kia dealer. Well worth considering.
I've just got a 2015 Limited Edition Corsa E with a 1.2 petrol engine, after passing on Tuesday. Insurance group 3 as well, so not too bad. This little Kia doesn't seem too bad, at all.
i have a skoda fabia 1.4 16v estate that cost £200.. comfort spec so it has extravagances such as electric windows and air conditioning (that works!) it goes forever on 20 quid of petrol and repair costs are buttons. it refuses to fail an MOT in such a way it no longer justifies it's existence and just keeps trundling..
Why "first car"? - other than that Ashley happens to be a driving instructor. It's a car for anyone who just wants mobility in a manageable, inexpensive package. Personally. I'd get an Aygo, but that's just my preference. The Suzuki Ignis is good, too.
Probably because he's a driving instructor whose target audience is looking for first cars. It's not necessarily that it's only ideal as a first car, but this is the angle he's reviewing from.
@@houseofharmony7307 I’m always wary of middle aged people driving cars like this, from my experience they all seem to be terrible drivers. All the ones I come across seem to not care about anything or anyone else when they’re behind the wheel.
Amazing really that 7 year warranty... What's the average for most manufacturers... about 3 years? The Koreans seem to be producing some very good cars these days, my mum has a hyundai i10 and that's a great little "town runabout" car but also reasonable on long journeys.
As much as I love Ashley and his videos this is a bit of a cringy foray into an area outside his expertise. The most important consideration for new drivers, as it was when I bought my first car, is finding something with low insurance, this will likely be your biggest driving expense for years. Remember that this will be the car you actually learn to drive with. Lessons teach you have to get through the test and ideally with a great instructor like Ashley give you the basis for forming good driving habits. My main tip is not worry about how old the car is, or even the mileage on it. Cars have been super reliable for many years now. You will likely be driving something completely different to your parents or driving instructors car: It will be underpowered [insurance issue] so you will use lower gears and higher revs, this is fine, due to it's age it will have characterful driving characteristics too, which you will genuinely come to love. Most important get something comfortable, you will spend a lot of time in it and hopefully many wonderful adventures to new places, you do not want discomfort distracting you from the driving. Also something where you have good visibility all around, no awkward pillars etc is worth considering. Your insurance is high for a reason, you are much much more likely to have a prang as a new driver, be aware of this every time you drive and stay safe whilst learning where your limits are and where the cars limits are, all cars handle very differently, especially older cars. Finally find somewhere to practise reversing, I don't think learners do enough of this and it's such an important driving skill. Sorry for the rant!
I drove one of these ages ago, and if I’m really honest I was NOT a fan. Maybe the model you got over there is different (better), but the one I drove was horrific. It was cheap-feeling, tinny and it was horrid to drive. The seats were uncomfortable, the engine had stuff all pull, the suspension was crashy and it found bumps in the road that weren’t there... The only good things I found were that it got good fuel mileage and the air conditioning was really really bloody cold. Glad you guys enjoyed it... but I wouldn’t even give this to a kid as their first car. I’d rather them have an older Honda Jazz or a Ford Fiesta.
I drove a 2006 1.1 ltr Kia Picanto for nearly 12 years & it was a great little car. The only thing I would warn people about is obtaining parts, they are normally much more expensive than Ford or Vauxhall parts.
I just bought a classic mini... 62hp Great fun to drive and £500 for first years insurance as a new driver... Sure it rusts but I love my mini... It's small compact and a nice head turner
Nice one Ashley, we have a Kia venga perfect little car for me and the wife and the dog, when you get into the car seat you just slide onto it, don’t have to lift your self up or drop down onto it, we have been down to Southampton several times no problem what so ever, witch takes about four and a half to five hours from where we live, with a half hour break, very comfortable, loads of room in the back with the back seats folded down for a fortnights worth of suitcases wile we go cruising, not with the dog though he’s go’s off with friends, so yes thumbs up to Kia, 👍👍.
I now love small engines! My new 2016 Astra has the 1 litre 3 cylinder petrol, but with a turbo, putting out a VERY impressive 106bhp. It flies for the size of body it has to lug around. Like a normal sized car, with a go kart engine on steroids! SO much fun!! The turbo is small so literally boosts from idle, no lag at all like my older 2004 diesel 4 pot Astra H. My driving instructor back in 2002 had a 1.0 Corsa that was a bag of spanners compared to this! I love that V6-like growl of a 3 cylinder! Stlll only costs £20 a year. I prefer the better power of a turbo, as I do a lot of field engineer work as an IT and electronics/home appliance repairer. Average of 45-50mpg. £535 yearly insurance at 36, that includes breakdown cover though, no black box!
I've got a Nissan Micra (don't laugh). 1.2 Litre, 3 cylinder, 5 speed. It gets up to 70mph quite easily. My commute is 25 miles each way and I get just under 40mpg. Group 2 insurance. I'd say it is an ideal 'first car', and I've been driving for over 40 years!
Just as a comparison, my Honda jazz 1.3 cvt auto won’t ever drop below 50mpg average. Even in winter. My work route is a bit shorter and I still manage 54mpg average in the summer. On longer runs it goes 55-56mpg average.
@@DavidWilson-hh2gn yea it came thru. It’s a good car in many ways but it isn’t perfect. Build quality & finish still aren’t equal to say a VW polo. A few rattles and squeaks. Exposed screw heads. Paint is poor. Very fragile, scratched by fingernails. Technology is plenty but should be implemented better in a more logical or “German way”. Even the seat back adjustment is flimsy-almost certain these plastic levers will snap with age fatigue in the future.
Had my Picanto since new in 2016. Even then got a great deal. Nippy & usually great for parking & turning in tight spots. Want to keep it for low tax alone but have transported all sorts in the back. More space than you think especially when seats down. My only complaints now I have a bad back is the driver's seat on long journeys as I find it uncomfortable & the front window frames to each side of windscreen. They are just wide enough to obscure an entire vehicle at certain angles. Take care looking properly especially at T- junctions. I'm definitely more of an A-B driver & this does the job for me👍
I bought a saloon, obviously not from a dealer, that would have been out of my price range. I didn't want to get a small car, because I need boot space, and I wanted to be confident in a longer vehicle, the parking sensors are amazing. My friends have parking cameras, which I think aren't as good, it encourages you to look down and not around, in the dark, it's not so easy to see, either.
would recommend fords for first cars, try to avoid the 1l eco boosts till 2-3 years after passing your test. Very fast for what they are, you can easily get your black cancelled if you aren't paying attention as they want to roll over the speed limit unless you keep a close eye on your speedo.
My fianceé drives a Vauxhall Adam, 2015 reg. It's a fantastic car. Not exactly quick, but has great fuel economy, it's tiny so it's amazingly easy to park, has lots of modern conveniences and the quality of the materials inside are actually really good. When compared to others in the same space like the Citroen C1, Peugeot 107, Fiat 500 etc the cockpit is absolutely miles ahead in terms of fit and finish. In terms of price, hers came in at a similar cost to the Picanto you showed in the video but in my opinion the Adam just feels so much more premium. The only down side is that it's a 3 door, but if that's not a problem for someone it's a no brainer.
Great review. Not my first car but I drive one, the 1.3L which is a good compromise between city and motorway driviing. Really cheap to run and reliable and don't have to pay road tax.
Had my 2011 1.2 picanto for 6 years...... lovely car, Auto locking, electric fold in mirrors, Bluetooth, isg ( not too much of a fan of), no tax, AC Holds its own on a motorway at 70mph. Reliable, , it cost me around £1100 a year to run 45 mpg around town, 58 on a journey So easy to park Radio is crap though.
Funny timing, bought my first car a few weeks ago, GT Line S version of the Picanto, love it so far. Surprisingly good on the winding country roads to my work. The size definitely helps with that
I passed in the picanto and I like how easy it is to drive but I can’t get away with how small it is for me and my dogs. I just passed on the 3/9 and on the 7/9 bought my first car a brand new Volkswagen polo 😁any chance you can review that?
My parents own a 2005 Kia picanto which is currently my first car I drive regularly (got my license a week ago). The clutch is stupid difficult to use. We have apartments and so other people use the car as well. They all make the same comment about the clutch. One of these people that drove it has a Porsche 911as a daily driver and even he was complaining about the clutch. The clutch is in good condition btw. It is just a cheap car.
I've had the pleasure of driving both the MK1 model of the Picanto, whilst my car was being repaired around 15 years ago and the newer model, as a hire car for a couple of weeks 3 years ago and I loved them, especially for the ease of parking. A great little car! 🙂👍
The review is for the Mk2 which was discontinued over 4 1/2 years ago. The Mk3 is much nicer. We have a 3 year old (26k miles) 3 spec and a 4 year old (22k miles) 2 spec, both are the mk3 (2017+) both with 1.25 litre engines and 4 spd automatic gearbox. Prices are holding up as the cars are very reliable having not so much as a bulb blown. The only downside is the mid 30's mpg. You will never see 40mpg unless you drive a long distance on a motorway with a 50mph limit.
If you buy the new one with the same engine the tax is 150….along with most other modern small cars-the rules changed. 150 for a big service at a main dealer is very cheap. I don’t like 3cly engines much, not even the one in the fiesta. Honda 4cyl sounds much better imo. Doing longer runs you should manage 50mpg out of it. But generally this is quite nice. Just remember this doesn’t have a turbo…and it’s a city class car-smaller than a modern fiesta etc.
Had a look on both honest John and autoloader - best first car new/used buys: Toyota Aygo & Yaris Citroën C1/C2 Peugeot 108 Hyundai i10 Honda Jazz Mazda 2 Skoda Citigo VW polo VW UP! FOX & Lupo Ford fiesta KIA C'eed (reasonably priced car😊)
I had a Mk5 golf 1.9tdi for my first car, it was so solid and quite loud yet still slow, I was very upset when it failed it's MOT for sub frame corrosion two years later
Great review,although it’ll be a little too small for a first car for me. I’m 53 but only started my driving lessons last August, I’ve been looking at so many different cars it’s a minefield 🤣 narrowed it down to a few we’d like to look at more closely if and when I pass my test. Mercedes B class 2L diesel,Vauxhall Meriva 1.7 diesel (the one that leaves the car park in your video just before 20min) Vauxhall Insignia 2L diesel. Bit limited to only Automatic but considering there are a lot more Automatic gearbox available than back in the 80’s when I could have started driving and the advent of Hybrid and EV that use mostly Automatic gearbox’s I don’t think I’ll have a problem finding a car. Insurance wise they’re basically around the same price (£1,300 for a year) I even thought about a smaller car just for the first year but don’t want to be swapping and changing, I want our first car for 3-5 years at least. Atm I’d say the Meriva is a good buy,even checked passed MOT’s using the reg and tbh they’re pretty good with only the basic usual things that need replacing (tyres,brakes,lamp adjustment)
Looked into getting a Picanto for my first car, but then for my job I drive 70km of motorway every day. So ended up with an older Fiesta, slightly bigger, with a stronger engine and better sound isolation, makes the motorway driving much more comfortable to me! Ofcourse it doesn't have the warranty and its older so something might break, but thats the risk I took. If I wouldn't have to drive the distance I do would've gotten one of these tho!
motorway miles are less of a strain to a car then town miles. just make sure oil, filters and belts get changed and engine will be good for many thousands of miles
I know it might be difficult to get a hold of cars for reviews, but I really enjoy these kinds of videos and hope you can do more!
The one annoying downside to cars this size in my experience is that it seems to be a magnet for tailgaters. Hence why I now have a rear dash cam.
Probably because they're usually driven by 70 year old couples down busy A roads at 38 mph.
theyre too slow
@@leenevin8451 they aren't though really, it's that they are usually driven by drivers who are too slow. I imagine if one was driven by a car thief on the run, I would be scared to try and keep up with them. I mean they are no lamborghini, but this is the type of person who the sound of a lamborghini engine would frighten them so they'd drive the lamborghini at 40 in top gear.
@@TimpBizkit ye I think engine sounds scare them and thus they go up a hill in 4th gear in a small engined car
@@leenevin8451 I've noticed the same thing with some cyclists - pedaling at 40 rpm with a low seat and wondering why they are completely gutless on hills.
This video feels slightly like an "Ash got himself a new drone so needed a reason to use it" video. Which one did you go for mate? 👍😊
It's always the case when you get a new toy 🙂
Now it is officially a business expense. Jobs a gooden.
Boys never grow up.
This is crazy. I passed my driving test a few months ago and my first car is a 2011 KIA picanto so an older model then this as I can’t afford anything more expensive. The space is perfect for me as a 19 year old and it’s been great to drive around. I highly recommend it as a first driver. I’m really happy with my car but I have definitely been the victim of certain drivers which I’d say is the only downside but as long as you ignore them and drive safe around them it’s normally okay. I did keep stalling it when I kept driving it but that came with getting used to the clutch. It’s been a few weeks now and I’m definitely more confident with it and am starting to love it as a first car. It’s really easy to drive and crazy easy to park I haven’t had any issues. I hope you all find the car right for you this is just my experience.
I recently took one for a test drive and I stalled it first time because the clutch grabs rather quickly, but I did like the car and ordered one, the GT Line S. I am sure I will get used to the clutch, like you.
Have you had any problems connecting your phone to the Bluetooth?
@@chlox4755 I have one of those radio adaptor things that lets me listen to whatever music I want :)
ayyyy which one!! I have white kia picanto domino
This car supposedly has a clutch that’s like a on/off switch. I have the 2010 Picanto Strike, so I wouldn’t know 😂
My wife has had three Picantos that she used for driving instruction and general use including quite a few long trips. All have been totally reliable - one had an aircon fault fixed under warranty but that was just a noisy bearing, it still worked. The first was identical to this one, a 1.0 that we found a little underpowered and learners tended to stall. The other two were/are 1.2 four-cylinder, and while still not rocket ships they’re much more flexible. Meanwhile my daughter bought a 1.0 Turbo version of the latest model, and that’s a lot of fun to drive, highly recommended but maybe not quite as cheap to insure.
If they were reliable she would have only needed one. Sorry to hear about her experience.
@@devonmantimtim8263 They are very reliable. I've had two Picanto's and haven't had a problem with either of them. People do change cars for other reasons than them being unreliable, sometimes they simply want a newer model.
very smal cabin size
our friend ashley has moved on to car reviews. however, i do have to take issue with this persistent myth that small cars are beginner cars, or "first" cars. they are great cars for anyone. being small, they are extremely easy to handle and they can squeeze into small spots in towns and cities. they generally have low tax, insurance, and running costs too. i've been driving a small car for 12 years, and it's been very cheap to run compared to other cars.
It's not a myth, it's fact. You said it yourself, they're for anyone, cheap to run and easy to drive
Smaller cars are the future if we want to stop destroying the planet.
They are also more fun to drive than larger cars, especially along twisty country lanes where moderate speeds can be enjoyable and feel a fair bit faster.
I've genuinely grown to Kia's, they've completely changed their whole brand over the last 5 years.
I own a Picanto and use it regularly for driving to work, I drive about 40 miles a day 5 days a week and I only have to refuel once a week. the only issue I have with it and this might just be my car is that sometimes the voice command feature doesn't work but apart from that great car, would highly recommend
Brilliant review! This is my first car, same engine but on a 64 plate. Been driving it for the past 4 years and you hit every nail on the head regarding turning circle, power and what the car is designed for. 👍
Just traded in my 3 year old Kia Picanto, she was a lovely car, and amazing to drive, very much loved it as my first car!
This is my current (first) car. Super easy to drive and surprisenly large inside, I'm 6"2 and fit in fine. My only gripe would be the accelaration can be horrendous sometimes, but can't expect much with about 70hp under the bonnet. Because it's so small driving around Edinburgh is also super easy, I can squeeze through gaps that others in even minis couldn't. Makes it good for parking too. I get around 55mpg on average, and the road tax and insurance are also cheap as well.
Ashley. I’m in car trade 15 years morphing into being a driving instructor. Never thought of Picanto. Only Fiesta. Probably good idea a Picanto.
That was a very good review Ash. I'm sure you know what sort of cars students want to get once they pass their test and a bit of sense and practicality is very good advice. You definitely should review more cars if you can. You have a totally different attitude to cars and driving compared to the regular reviewers and your views are excellent advice to new drivers and experienced ones. I was exactly the same when I passed in 1975 and had to get an Escort. But all the examples I saw were rusty and tatty. I bought an Austin 1100, a Grandma's car, and was so worried about the reaction of my friends. But that car was good for work, driving long distances and was full of guys on pub nights. It was a great first car and only slightly bigger inside than that Kia. I wouldn't buy one but maybe I would get something similar when I get older.
This is the car I’m learning to drive in. The red and white sports addition I love it
This would be the perfect first car IMO. It’s: .stable
.cheap to insure,buy and run
. Quick enough
. Reliable and has a long warranty
. Easy to drive
. Little so easy to park
. Has just about enough room for friends
Plus having ridden in one it feels less like a tin can on wheels than something like a C1 or Aygo lol
Not that cheap to insure, my daughter is 17 and about to take her test, the cheapest car we found for her to insure is a 1.8TDCI Ford Focus mk2.5 it was cheaper to insure than all of the small cars with tiny engines.
I had a 2004 Kia Picanto which had a 1.1L engine with 64bhp, it was very good and reliable, but just lacked power. I then got a 2016 Kia Picanto with a 1.25L engine with 86bhp and is a lot more nippy and comes with a lot of extras even heated steering wheel and climate control. If that still doesn't satisfy you they now have a 1L turbo with 99bhp and a lot more extras
As a first car the Picanto is actually great. Surprisingly spacious and capable for it's size. Just wish it had a more powerful radio to power the speakers and more power to get you out of dangerous situations when power is needed.
I just past my test, and my first car is a 2006 Kia Picanto, and today will be my first day driving it.
How safe is it? I would rather my boy drives a Sportage. Hopefully he will not have an accident, but a larger vehicle is generally safer. I know where you're coming from though. My first car was a Dihatsu Charade. Smaller still.
I actually have a Kia picanto myself and it’s my first car, so far I’m really enjoying driving it about, definitely good for a first car.
Me too, mine is the 2015 model and it's great for my first car. Glad we think alike
Is it still going well? I just bought one
imo the VW UP! is the perfect first car. It looks pretty good, group 1 insurance, safe and reliable, cheap to run, a pleasure to drive and there are plenty of good examples of them out there to be had used for around the 3k mark right now.
I agree. I have the Up! TSI, which has a turbo, and it is great to drive, other people who have driven it also commented on how good it is. Unfortunately the TSI is no longer made, so if you want a decent amount of power in a new car you are limited to the GTI version.
Yeah and it’s a Volkswagen not a Kia! With German engineering and it’s super reliable and feels well built.
@@SF-rs3xm The Kia is a much better built car than the VW, VW UP suffers bad gearboxes, clutches and needs the drains unblocked regularly to prevent leaks.
@@SF-rs3xm Kia and Hyundai aren't the manufacturers you think they are today.
I'm wary of those little cars based on that VAG platform or the similar Peugeot/Citroen/Toyota models, they're driven savagely any time I see them out on the roads.
I'm sure engineering today can take the ringing those engines are given, but I'll pass.
I’m a new young driver and I’ve got a 2008 Kia Picanto 2, I highly recommend. My only complaint is the clutch felt very different and difficult to use at first because I was so used to newer clutches so but I got used to it quickly. Very easy to drive and park due to it being so small.
Clutch? How quaint.
My wife got one of these (Picanto 3) and it's amazing for around town! Really fun to drive too and use our bigger car for longer journeys.
My favourite feature is the insanely small turning circle and the boot size considering it's small size.
1.2 4 cylinder is the bigger engine
My brother and mother both have Ford Fiestas in Ferrari red. Mum has the 1.2 and my brother has the 1.0 Ecoboost. I have a Citroen C2 1.1 and dad has a 2.0TFCI Ford Mondeo estate - a bit longer and probably worse in tight maneuvers.
The 1.25 litre is at home on the motorway, why would it not be. Its a car!
'City Car' is a stupid title.
@@fivish I was curious about that. I have never heard of a car that struggled to do 70 mph (apart from a Renault Twizy which I wouldn't take on the motorway although it's technically legal to in UK), and most motorways don't have steep hills, nor do they require you to be out of the passing lane in a hurry before an oncoming car as the opposite side is entirely segregated. Some of the little ones feel a bit blustery in lots of wind and a bit noisy on the road, though it reminds me that I'm piloting a big metal container down the road and not curled up in front of a warm cosy wood burning stove about to go to sleep.
As for acceleration, well nothing accelerates more poorly than an HGV and they use the motorways in droves.
This looks like a great city car, nothing wrong with these small 1 litre engines. Bought my first car a couple of weeks ago and was lucky enough to get a 2013 Fiesta with the 99hp 1 litre and it's incredible.
Bought one of these for my wife since she didn't like driving my bigger car. Fantastic little car. We had a Skoda citigo and like the Picanto it is brilliant on the motorway.
Very sensible video .. it's good that you are giving cost incurred for service, insurance .really useful .thank you for the video.
I have this car and I don't want to change anytime soon. It does exactly what I need it do. I've got the 2015 model
Me and my mum both have a 2014 vr7 picanto and I honestly love it really fun to nip around in, great first car and daily driver!
I'm rocking a 2008 Micra with 1,2l engine. Fuel economy's good, easy to park, all around great car.
I got a 6 month warranty on my first car when I bought it. It was already 13 years old at the time and 12 years on I still have it and has given me little trouble in that time 😃
This will be a very useful video for a lot of people fresh from passing their tests or simply looking for their first cheap runabout to get them on the road and off their parents's insurance. I've had two Fiat Pandas (probably an obvious rival of the Picanto featured here) and they've been great. Reliable, cheap parts, decent practicality and visibility only bettered by a greenhouse. And - while not really a huge priority - pretty fun to drive. Four cylinder engine in most of em so a bit smoother.
I got my first car last week, 5th gen Nissan Micra tekna 0.9 and it's absolutely fantastic!
Got myself a nice grey Hyundai i10 2019 model as my first car a few months back and I absolutely adore it! Brilliant little car!
I drive a 1999 Seat Arosa with a 1 litre engine I paid £300 for it, I think it’s a great little car for being 21 years old I’ve owned it for just under a year and its been amazingly reliable I’ve only spent £90 on a service (brake servo pipe and resurfacing the rear drums) and £120 on four new tyres. I’m still on L plates at the minute as I’m waiting for my test which is in November thanks to the covid back log.
Had a Ceed for 9 years, replaced that with a Rio which we have had for 3 years. Only thing to go wrong was a snapped clutch pedal spring in the Rio which was replaced under warranty. Kia’s are getting a bit pricey now, we bought a Dacia Duster 1.3 as a second car. I’d imagine the Sandero would be a good first car.
My first car, and the car I have now, is the old model citroen c1. It's a brilliant little car if you get a good spec one. I have the vt spec which is the basic model and doesn't have electric windows, no AC, no Bluetooth, no rev counter no back doors or back windows that open or any central locking. Unfortunately my car has had problems over the last year of ownership. The breaks have started to squeak, the clutch is on its way out, the wheel alignment is slightly off and my front suspension units are slightly corroded. I have had one or two problems handling wise. When driving above 60mph the car moves around and the car gets blown around by larger vehicles driving past
Excellent review, really interesting. Was that the car you did the MOT video with?
Definitely something nice about a smaller engined naturally aspirated petrol car, reminds me of my mum's Citroën AX which I loved driving.
Is part of the difference with the brakes that your BMW has disc brakes all round whereas the Kia doesn't? I think that makes quite a difference with the braking characteristics of any car - I certainly notice the difference between my Skoda and my wife's Fiesta.
Thanks again - looking forward to the next car review!
Have owned a VR7 version of this car from new (14) - it has built in reversing sensors, all electric windows, etc. Has now covered 178,000 miles - still on original clutch, great brakes (discs all round), has been totally reliable - only needed a new catalytic converter (at 95,000/2 years old) - under warranty. Used to drive to work - 123 miles there and back. Road Tax = £0.00. Good review. Have a Vitara AllGrip but still use this for work which is now far more local - thank goodness.
This is the base model. There are several models above it with the top ones being the sporty GT-Line and the off-roadish X-Line, and to be honest, they are leagues above the base one in both looks and fuctionality.
Nice revolving shot with the drone! 👌
I'm in the market for my first car and I'm thinking of going with the Honda CR-Z, its different and stylish (I have never actually seen one on Irish roads), 1.5 petrol hybrid, tons of extras like AC, Cruise Control, Parking Sensors. It is also a Honda so it should be pretty reliable. The Kia is nice though!
Good car
I've got a CRZ and had it for 5 years ( 60,000 miles ) Full Honda service history which isn't not too expensive either at the dealership . Not had a moments trouble and everything still works perfectly and I still get people asking " what's that" .
Try and get the later 119 bhp version ( 13 plate onwards ) as the battery pack is more efficient and a bit quicker .
Bought it for the quirkiness but you'd have to prize it off me now.
Should probably note; the warranty is only valid as long as the car has a full dealer (Kia) service history, which while recently looking for a used car seems to be becoming increasingly rare.
No. They can't enforce only having a Kia history. They have to allow independent garages to service to maintain warranty as long as they follow the manufacturer service schedules and use OEM quality parts. That is under the block exemption rules.
I've got a 71 plate Kia picanto as my first car and I have to say it's brilliant. It has everything you need and it can get in anywhere without any problem. Its an auto due to me having a disability but her gear change is spot on.
What I really like about the Picanto is the headroom for taller people. I’m 6’1” and don’t come close to touching the ceiling.
I've got the GT Line S Picanto and love it, great performance and economy with quite a lot of tech as standard that even some premium brands only offer as extras
I never drove this model, but I did have my lessons in a Kia Rio with 1.2l engine, I remember everything being very unhelpful let's just say, the steering- no feedback, the clutch, hard to feel, the gear shifter, again, hard to feel, one I did the test and started driving a Focus, later Mazda 6, all the issues with stalling etc. disappeared, so I do believe that stiffer pedals etc. can be quite beneficial to a new driver actually.
Yeah Korean cars are a big no tbh 😭😂
@@SF-rs3xm nah, in general they are good quality etc. and good value, bit the econo boxes are very, I don't know what word to use, numb? to drive, I assume the better ones like Kia Cee'd for example is not as bad in this regard, but Hiundai i40 I drove recently was the same as the Kia Rio- no feedback at all, just a lot higher quality overall.
For me the Picanto is a bit difficult to drive, I have a big problem with the car stalling… I used to drive a Diesel, so its a big change but I keep stalling my Kia :(
An instructor in my area teaches in one of those. Seem like decent little cars. I'm sure the hyundai i10 (same car underneath) would be similar to drive. My 1.2 clio is the same power wise, if you draw all you can from the engine, she goes fine. Just means the fuel economy is sacrificed somewhat, but it's not to bad.
Any chance of a review on the A class?
I test drove the KIA Picanto and the i10 for my first car, and I felt like the i10 just had that extra bit of oomph when driving. KIA also has VERY sensitive brakes, I found, but the KIA has a really comfy interior
@@returntohomefpv3232 interesting 🤔. Surprised there was such a difference between them. Were they both brand new?
@@seberous not brand new no. But very low mileage. Just felt like the KIA was just a bit underpowered when compared to the i10 but both are great cars
The i10 looks very sad especially inside compared to the Picanto.
Most i10's are in granny blue!
Ashley Auditions for Top Gear presenter....😉👍 (and does a great review)
I still have my first car 7 years later xD. I bought a reasonably new car (2 years old, 10,000 miles) and promised I'd keep it till it's uneconomical to repair. It still does everything I need it to do. Only thing I regret is getting a 3 door Aygo instead of a 5 door but still manage if I need to take passengers. Services for my Aygo range from £25-£50 because I do them myself which is another reason why I wanted keep my first car for its life, I have kept a full service record just it's hand written by me and is probably more thorough then a garage since I now tend to service every 5000-6000 miles instead of 10,000 miles since it now has 83,000 miles on the clock and I reduced the intervals around 60,000 miles (it burns oil and instead of topping it up halfway through a service interval I now just do a full oil change, especially since I was seeing allot of thick oil sludge at 10,000 miles). The Aygo only takes 2.5-3L of oil so it costs about £12-20 in oil and £5 for a filter. Air filters and spark plugs are reasonably cheap as well.
I have a Toyota Argo it’s my first car 🚗
@@lennydicko they're pretty good little cars, the build quality isn't amazing but most of the parts are reasonably cheap to replace. If you can get past the lack of power (assuming you've not got the new 1.2L) they're good.
I've replaced the rear muffler twice, the first time the mounting stud snapped and the 2nd muffler recently corroded and formed a hole, the exhaust centre pipe mounting stud recently snapped too and replaced that... The muffler was about £35 and the center pipe was about £45. I've spray painted the muffler with an anti corrosion exhaust paint this time so hopefully it lasts longer! I doubt it though 🤣
My first car was 3 doors. Big mistake. You live and learn.
My first car was an inherited V reg Corsa made of steel and rust. Thing was a tank, had over 850 000 miles on the clock and was virtually indestructible. No power steering made for fun with how heavy a car it was for its size lol.
One of my coworker's first car was a Suzuki Swift, the newer ones are actually pretty nice motors, and also an ideal car for new drivers. Other good first motors include the VW Up! (I believe its "Jump!" outside of the UK) Ford Ka, maybe the Renault Twingo as well. Basically any compact car from a reputable (but not "luxurious") brand, sporting a 1.0L engine or smaller will do a good job whilst being cheap to run
Have you ever done a video on mirror positioning? I (and everyone I talked about it with) was taught to put the mirrors so you can see your door handles from a central seating position. But I've seen some people claim that's actually wrong and they should be further out. What's your thoughts on that?
Edit: I just found your video of 2017. Very informative.
He has: ruclips.net/video/-7Tuo4nHv54/видео.html
he has actually. ruclips.net/video/V8SJwG_i6Kg/видео.html
I got an I20, 1.2, 11 plate, cost 2k, only thing need this year was an oil change and service, passes MOT with no adviser, passed clean on emissions so very little cost and with 30-60mpg its not bad, bigger boot than the kia. my i20 is 30 year tax, fits in the clean air exemptions, group 9 insurance whats gone from group 7or8 just over a year ago, the weight is only 1045kg with 78bhp and 90 torque. never had in issue of being to slow joining a fast road if willing to use lot more gear and block changing you can easy keep up with modern traffic . had diesel for my first car, going back to diesel for my 3rd car and from japan. going back to diesel due to most my driving is in wales and mountains to climb so lots up down gears currently, a workout compared to my old diesel
I have the Hyundai i30 1.6 deisel (110bhp) and I love it! had it 7 years and not had many faults with it, and its great for long journeys as it has plenty of power and is very comfy
Great little car. Very cheap to own and run. We have a 2014 Picanto 3 door, which our daughter is now using as we have an electric car. You Can easily get 50 mpg from this car. Ours was the VR7 special edition, which has standard fit reversing beepers so they are on some Picantos, you just have to look at the specs when you look at one. There are quite a few different specs around. Ours was zero tax, so check when looking. They also have a cam chain so no worry about cam belt changes (unless later models had a different engine specification) . The 7 year warranty is well worth it on a secondhand example. We had an older 2004 picanto previously and not one thing went wrong and it had over 100,000 miles when we sold it, however the 2014 VR7 had a couple of issues and these were sorted out under warranty at a Kia dealer. Well worth considering.
This videos been put together amazingly well. Thanks for the review :)
I've just got a 2015 Limited Edition Corsa E with a 1.2 petrol engine, after passing on Tuesday. Insurance group 3 as well, so not too bad.
This little Kia doesn't seem too bad, at all.
i have a skoda fabia 1.4 16v estate that cost £200.. comfort spec so it has extravagances such as electric windows and air conditioning (that works!) it goes forever on 20 quid of petrol and repair costs are buttons. it refuses to fail an MOT in such a way it no longer justifies it's existence and just keeps trundling..
Why "first car"? - other than that Ashley happens to be a driving instructor. It's a car for anyone who just wants mobility in a manageable, inexpensive package.
Personally. I'd get an Aygo, but that's just my preference. The Suzuki Ignis is good, too.
Probably because he's a driving instructor whose target audience is looking for first cars.
It's not necessarily that it's only ideal as a first car, but this is the angle he's reviewing from.
Let’s be real, it’s only going to be bought by someone who’s just passed their test, or an OAP.
@@davidbest1 And anyone who doesn't need a Chelsea tractor just to nip down to the shops. This is sensible and affordable motoring.
@@houseofharmony7307 I’m always wary of middle aged people driving cars like this, from my experience they all seem to be terrible drivers. All the ones I come across seem to not care about anything or anyone else when they’re behind the wheel.
@@houseofharmony7307 I think if this suffices as a car you don't much need a car at all
Amazing really that 7 year warranty... What's the average for most manufacturers... about 3 years? The Koreans seem to be producing some very good cars these days, my mum has a hyundai i10 and that's a great little "town runabout" car but also reasonable on long journeys.
The i10 and Kia Picanto are essentially the same car under the skin. Solid little cars!
@@Si1983h Ah didn't know that.. 👍
to compare, I looked up ratings on the first year Hyundai, some 20 years ago, and they compared it to a Yugo.
@@kenbrown2808 35 years ago
@@johnnymichael1804 I guess it has been that long, hasn't it. damn, I'm old.
As much as I love Ashley and his videos this is a bit of a cringy foray into an area outside his expertise. The most important consideration for new drivers, as it was when I bought my first car, is finding something with low insurance, this will likely be your biggest driving expense for years. Remember that this will be the car you actually learn to drive with. Lessons teach you have to get through the test and ideally with a great instructor like Ashley give you the basis for forming good driving habits.
My main tip is not worry about how old the car is, or even the mileage on it. Cars have been super reliable for many years now. You will likely be driving something completely different to your parents or driving instructors car: It will be underpowered [insurance issue] so you will use lower gears and higher revs, this is fine, due to it's age it will have characterful driving characteristics too, which you will genuinely come to love. Most important get something comfortable, you will spend a lot of time in it and hopefully many wonderful adventures to new places, you do not want discomfort distracting you from the driving. Also something where you have good visibility all around, no awkward pillars etc is worth considering. Your insurance is high for a reason, you are much much more likely to have a prang as a new driver, be aware of this every time you drive and stay safe whilst learning where your limits are and where the cars limits are, all cars handle very differently, especially older cars. Finally find somewhere to practise reversing, I don't think learners do enough of this and it's such an important driving skill. Sorry for the rant!
I have this car and i have been learning in it. Been amazing so far 👍 got my test next week.
I had one of these back in 2014, a 1.25L version. It was actually quite good, I wish I had kept it instead of trading it for a bigger car.
I drove one of these ages ago, and if I’m really honest I was NOT a fan.
Maybe the model you got over there is different (better), but the one I drove was horrific. It was cheap-feeling, tinny and it was horrid to drive. The seats were uncomfortable, the engine had stuff all pull, the suspension was crashy and it found bumps in the road that weren’t there... The only good things I found were that it got good fuel mileage and the air conditioning was really really bloody cold.
Glad you guys enjoyed it... but I wouldn’t even give this to a kid as their first car. I’d rather them have an older Honda Jazz or a Ford Fiesta.
I drove a 2006 1.1 ltr Kia Picanto for nearly 12 years & it was a great little car. The only thing I would warn people about is obtaining parts, they are normally much more expensive than Ford or Vauxhall parts.
Insurance varies massively. It’d be a good video idea to talk about the different policies and options to see what suits the individual.
Great car review Ashley 😀👍
I just bought a classic mini... 62hp Great fun to drive and £500 for first years insurance as a new driver... Sure it rusts but I love my mini... It's small compact and a nice head turner
Nice one Ashley, we have a Kia venga perfect little car for me and the wife and the dog, when you get into the car seat you just slide onto it, don’t have to lift your self up or drop down onto it, we have been down to Southampton several times no problem what so ever, witch takes about four and a half to five hours from where we live, with a half hour break, very comfortable, loads of room in the back with the back seats folded down for a fortnights worth of suitcases wile we go cruising, not with the dog though he’s go’s off with friends, so yes thumbs up to Kia, 👍👍.
I now love small engines! My new 2016 Astra has the 1 litre 3 cylinder petrol, but with a turbo, putting out a VERY impressive 106bhp. It flies for the size of body it has to lug around. Like a normal sized car, with a go kart engine on steroids! SO much fun!! The turbo is small so literally boosts from idle, no lag at all like my older 2004 diesel 4 pot Astra H.
My driving instructor back in 2002 had a 1.0 Corsa that was a bag of spanners compared to this! I love that V6-like growl of a 3 cylinder! Stlll only costs £20 a year. I prefer the better power of a turbo, as I do a lot of field engineer work as an IT and electronics/home appliance repairer. Average of 45-50mpg. £535 yearly insurance at 36, that includes breakdown cover though, no black box!
I've got a Nissan Micra (don't laugh). 1.2 Litre, 3 cylinder, 5 speed. It gets up to 70mph quite easily.
My commute is 25 miles each way and I get just under 40mpg.
Group 2 insurance. I'd say it is an ideal 'first car', and I've been driving for over 40 years!
Just as a comparison, my Honda jazz 1.3 cvt auto won’t ever drop below 50mpg average. Even in winter.
My work route is a bit shorter and I still manage 54mpg average in the summer. On longer runs it goes 55-56mpg average.
@@DavidWilson-hh2gn cross winds are noticeable in a Honda jazz….these modern ones are quite tall.
@@DavidWilson-hh2gn yea it came thru.
It’s a good car in many ways but it isn’t perfect. Build quality & finish still aren’t equal to say a VW polo. A few rattles and squeaks. Exposed screw heads. Paint is poor. Very fragile, scratched by fingernails.
Technology is plenty but should be implemented better in a more logical or “German way”. Even the seat back adjustment is flimsy-almost certain these plastic levers will snap with age fatigue in the future.
Do you know if the automatic version of this car is any good. ? My daughter has only an auto driving licence and this Kia looks like a good first car.
Great review and I am actually considering this for my first car!
Had my Picanto since new in 2016. Even then got a great deal. Nippy & usually great for parking & turning in tight spots. Want to keep it for low tax alone but have transported all sorts in the back. More space than you think especially when seats down.
My only complaints now I have a bad back is the driver's seat on long journeys as I find it uncomfortable & the front window frames to each side of windscreen. They are just wide enough to obscure an entire vehicle at certain angles. Take care looking properly especially at T- junctions.
I'm definitely more of an A-B driver & this does the job for me👍
I got one of these as my first car and its great. Comfy seats and good reverse parking sensors. I got the 2015 model
I bought a saloon, obviously not from a dealer, that would have been out of my price range.
I didn't want to get a small car, because I need boot space, and I wanted to be confident in a longer vehicle, the parking sensors are amazing.
My friends have parking cameras, which I think aren't as good, it encourages you to look down and not around, in the dark, it's not so easy to see, either.
would recommend fords for first cars, try to avoid the 1l eco boosts till 2-3 years after passing your test. Very fast for what they are, you can easily get your black cancelled if you aren't paying attention as they want to roll over the speed limit unless you keep a close eye on your speedo.
My fianceé drives a Vauxhall Adam, 2015 reg. It's a fantastic car. Not exactly quick, but has great fuel economy, it's tiny so it's amazingly easy to park, has lots of modern conveniences and the quality of the materials inside are actually really good. When compared to others in the same space like the Citroen C1, Peugeot 107, Fiat 500 etc the cockpit is absolutely miles ahead in terms of fit and finish. In terms of price, hers came in at a similar cost to the Picanto you showed in the video but in my opinion the Adam just feels so much more premium. The only down side is that it's a 3 door, but if that's not a problem for someone it's a no brainer.
We need more of these vidoes. Chances of you reviewing the aygo or jazz next?
Great review. Not my first car but I drive one, the 1.3L which is a good compromise between city and motorway driviing. Really cheap to run and reliable and don't have to pay road tax.
Had my 2011 1.2 picanto for 6 years...... lovely car,
Auto locking, electric fold in mirrors, Bluetooth, isg ( not too much of a fan of), no tax, AC
Holds its own on a motorway at 70mph.
Reliable,
, it cost me around £1100 a year to run
45 mpg around town, 58 on a journey
So easy to park
Radio is crap though.
Funny timing, bought my first car a few weeks ago, GT Line S version of the Picanto, love it so far. Surprisingly good on the winding country roads to my work. The size definitely helps with that
Where did you get the insurance quote? I can't find any that cheap xD
I have a kia picanto as my first car. Recommend it for an affordable price, bought mine for about 2.5k 42000 miles.
I passed in the picanto and I like how easy it is to drive but I can’t get away with how small it is for me and my dogs. I just passed on the 3/9 and on the 7/9 bought my first car a brand new Volkswagen polo 😁any chance you can review that?
My parents own a 2005 Kia picanto which is currently my first car I drive regularly (got my license a week ago). The clutch is stupid difficult to use. We have apartments and so other people use the car as well. They all make the same comment about the clutch. One of these people that drove it has a Porsche 911as a daily driver and even he was complaining about the clutch. The clutch is in good condition btw. It is just a cheap car.
I've had the pleasure of driving both the MK1 model of the Picanto, whilst my car was being repaired around 15 years ago and the newer model, as a hire car for a couple of weeks 3 years ago and I loved them, especially for the ease of parking.
A great little car! 🙂👍
I make deliveries in one of these. It's pretty beaten up (different drivers!) but it works well in and around the city.
It's good, but it's no Yaris 😎
thanks for this ashley. i really enjoyed this vid. please do more like this.
Can I suggest the Aygo as a great first car. Slightly more street cred too!
The review is for the Mk2 which was discontinued over 4 1/2 years ago. The Mk3 is much nicer.
We have a 3 year old (26k miles) 3 spec and a 4 year old (22k miles) 2 spec, both are the mk3 (2017+) both with 1.25 litre engines and 4 spd automatic gearbox.
Prices are holding up as the cars are very reliable having not so much as a bulb blown. The only downside is the mid 30's mpg. You will never see 40mpg unless you drive a long distance on a motorway with a 50mph limit.
40mpg? Mine gets high 60s routinely and by driving max. 50mph and careful acceleration and braking, it’s given 82mpg over a 12 mile journey.
My first car was a three cylinder, too. It had four but only fired on three! 😄
If you buy the new one with the same engine the tax is 150….along with most other modern small cars-the rules changed.
150 for a big service at a main dealer is very cheap.
I don’t like 3cly engines much, not even the one in the fiesta. Honda 4cyl sounds much better imo.
Doing longer runs you should manage 50mpg out of it.
But generally this is quite nice.
Just remember this doesn’t have a turbo…and it’s a city class car-smaller than a modern fiesta etc.
Had a look on both honest John and autoloader - best first car new/used buys:
Toyota Aygo & Yaris
Citroën C1/C2
Peugeot 108
Hyundai i10
Honda Jazz
Mazda 2
Skoda Citigo
VW polo VW UP! FOX & Lupo
Ford fiesta
KIA C'eed (reasonably priced car😊)
my first car was a BMW E36, loads of fun driving that
I had a Mk5 golf 1.9tdi for my first car, it was so solid and quite loud yet still slow, I was very upset when it failed it's MOT for sub frame corrosion two years later
Great review,although it’ll be a little too small for a first car for me.
I’m 53 but only started my driving lessons last August, I’ve been looking at so many different cars it’s a minefield 🤣 narrowed it down to a few we’d like to look at more closely if and when I pass my test. Mercedes B class 2L diesel,Vauxhall Meriva 1.7 diesel (the one that leaves the car park in your video just before 20min) Vauxhall Insignia 2L diesel. Bit limited to only Automatic but considering there are a lot more Automatic gearbox available than back in the 80’s when I could have started driving and the advent of Hybrid and EV that use mostly Automatic gearbox’s I don’t think I’ll have a problem finding a car. Insurance wise they’re basically around the same price (£1,300 for a year) I even thought about a smaller car just for the first year but don’t want to be swapping and changing, I want our first car for 3-5 years at least. Atm I’d say the Meriva is a good buy,even checked passed MOT’s using the reg and tbh they’re pretty good with only the basic usual things that need replacing (tyres,brakes,lamp adjustment)
Looked into getting a Picanto for my first car, but then for my job I drive 70km of motorway every day. So ended up with an older Fiesta, slightly bigger, with a stronger engine and better sound isolation, makes the motorway driving much more comfortable to me! Ofcourse it doesn't have the warranty and its older so something might break, but thats the risk I took. If I wouldn't have to drive the distance I do would've gotten one of these tho!
motorway miles are less of a strain to a car then town miles. just make sure oil, filters and belts get changed and engine will be good for many thousands of miles