Kia updates the Morning

The Korean brand has released photos and information on the facelift of the Morning, which is the name the Picanto goes by in South Korea. The changes affect not only the exterior but also the cabin, the engines and the equipment, which should allow it to keep its top sales position in its segment in its home market. It has not yet been confirmed whether the updated model will be sold in the other markets where it is present.

On the exterior there are changes to both bumpers, to the larger door mirrors with integrated indicators, and to the new alloy wheels, among which the 15-inch “Black Luxury” wheels shown in the images stand out, as well as some new colours such as Lime, which will be available next year. There are also some elements painted in satin black, such as on the lower edge of the front bumper or on the projection that covers the rear number plate.

In addition, Kia will offer in South Korea at the launch of the Morning 2010 a special edition that will also include: chrome door handles, front grille surround and fuel filler cap, a sporty-design bumper, side stripes in the body colour and rear lights with a satin black mask.

The interior has likewise been updated with a new steering wheel (which can optionally be leather-trimmed), a new gear lever, an instrument cluster with metallic surrounds and improved trim for the doors. There will also be a choice of different colour combinations, and a mirror with a rear-view camera can optionally be fitted.

The two available engines are both one-litre four-cylinder units. The first is a 67 horsepower unit that can run on petrol or natural gas. The more powerful one is a 72 horsepower unit, which raises the output of the previous version by 8 and improves consumption by 5% and emissions by 3%. Both will come as standard with a five-speed manual gearbox, but they can also be fitted with a four-speed automatic. An ECO-assist system will help the driver achieve the lowest possible consumption.

The new Morning 2010 goes on sale today at Kia dealerships in South Korea at prices ranging from 7 million Won (around 4,000 euros) to 10,300,000 Won (6,000 euros). They will most likely be slightly higher if the new model is exported. Images below:

Via | TheCarBlogger