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Next-Gen KIA Picanto Could Be Coming to Pakistan Following the Current-Gen’s Discontinuation

KIA's decision to end the current Picanto's run could pave the way for a newer-generation hatchback in Pakistan.

The next-gen KIA Picanto could be coming to Pakistan, after the company quietly discontinued the previous one earlier this month. If launched, the new Picanto would return KIA to Pakistan’s fiercely competitive hatchback segment, which Suzuki currently dominates across multiple price points. While KIA has not officially confirmed the launch, market reports suggest that the new Picanto could arrive as early as next month.

The report was first shared by PakWheels’ Suneel Munj, who said the discontinuation of the current-generation model does not mean the Picanto nameplate is leaving Pakistan permanently. According to his sources, Lucky Motor is preparing to bring the latest-generation Picanto to Pakistan, potentially as early as September 2026.

This news sits well because KIA has been recently updating its lineup to match the global generations of vehicles, including the Grand Carnival, and the recently launched KIA Sportage L and KIA Sorento PHEV.

The front-end design also brings the Picanto in line with KIA’s newer design language, sharing visual cues with larger models such as the Sportage L and Sorento. The redesigned front features a more upright face, a revised Tiger Nose grille, and a new lighting signature, giving the small hatchback a more substantial appearance.

Worldwide, KIA is currently offering the third generation of the KIA Picanto, which was launched back in 2017, and it is currently in its second facelift, implementing KIA’s Opposites United design philosophy with updated LED bars and modern cabin tech. It is offered with either a 1.0L or a 1.2L naturally aspirated petrol engine. A sportier GT-Line is also part of its lineup, which uses the same engines but offers additional cosmetic and equipment updates that are not part of the base-line models.

Apart from the visual overhaul, the new Picanto also has updated tech, safety features, and cabin. Inside, you will find a touchscreen infotainment system, smartphone connectivity, digital instruments, and improved dashboard and seats. Depending on the trim level, the Picanto also features a range of ADAS features such as Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist, Lane Following Assist, Driver Attention Warning, and Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist.

If KIA indeed brings the new-generation Picanto to Pakistan, it will represent a significant step forward from the current-gen model that was recently discontinued. The biggest difference would likely be the newer exterior and interior design, along with updated infotainment and connectivity. Its price will be the biggest factor in its success because the hatchback sector is currently dominated by Suzuki in different categories with multiple offerings like Alto, Cultus, and Swift. However, until KIA announces it officially, this news should be taken with a grain of salt.

Umair Khalid

Umair Khalid is the Founder and Editor-in-Chief of MotorNama.pk. Based in Pakistan, he has more than a decade of journalism experience covering video games, consumer hardware, and the automotive industry. With Motornama, he aims to help readers make informed decisions while delivering meaningful insights into Pakistan's evolving automotive landscape.

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