Fiat 500 vs. Kia Picanto: Complete comparison 2026

The Fiat 500 is a stylish Italian icon that charms with its retro design and status as a fashion accessory, while the Kia Picanto, also known as the Kia Morning in some markets, represents a practical and affordable alternative from South Korea with an emphasis on utility. In this comparison, we will look at the key differences between these two popular city cars to help you decide which one better suits your needs.

Exterior Dimensions: A Battle of Millimetres with a Big Impact

At first glance, the Fiat 500 and the Kia Picanto are similar – both are small, agile masters of city streets. However, a look at the dimension tables reveals that each adopts a slightly different strategy for utilising its compact body. These differences in millimetres are more significant in practice than they might seem.

While the Fiat 500 (in the 312 generation after the 2015 facelift) is a noticeable 3 cm wider, the Kia Picanto (JA generation from 2017) is almost 3 cm longer. The Fiat's wider body can contribute to a feeling of greater robustness and stability in corners, while the Picanto's narrower profile is a slight advantage when weaving through narrow streets or parking in tight garages. However, the differences in length and height are almost negligible and play a minimal role in real-world parking.

The key and most fundamental difference lies in the wheelbase. Here, the Kia Picanto outclasses its Italian rival by a full 100 mm (10 cm). A longer wheelbase means the wheels are pushed further into the corners of the body, which directly translates into noticeably more space for the crew, especially for the knee room of rear-seat passengers. While the Fiat 500 is primarily a stylish car for two, the Kia Picanto's design offers a much more usable interior, making it a more practical choice for those who occasionally need to carry more than one passenger.

Luggage Compartment Volume

Practicality is key in the city car segment, and the size of the boot often determines how well a car will serve for daily shopping or weekend trips. This is where one of the biggest differences between the stylish Fiat 500 and the pragmatically designed Kia Picanto becomes apparent. While Fiat bets on design and emotion, Kia focuses on maximising the use of available space.

The third-generation Kia Picanto (JA), produced since 2017, is the clear winner in this discipline. It offers a basic luggage compartment volume of 255 litres, which is an excellent value for its class. With the rear seats folded down, the space expands to an impressive 1010 litres. This makes the Picanto a much more versatile helper, capable of handling not only a week's shopping for the whole family but also transporting bulkier items.

In contrast, the Fiat 500, whether in the conventional or mild-hybrid version of the 312 generation, sticks to more modest figures. Its boot holds 185 litres in its basic configuration, a significant 70 litres less than its competitor. With the seats folded down, it offers a maximum of 550 litres. This space is sufficient for regular city errands and smaller purchases, but it quickly reaches its limits when you need to transport something larger. The LPG versions are an exception, where the gas tank reduces the boot volume to just 165 litres.

Boot Volume Comparison

In short, if the size and versatility of the luggage compartment are a priority for you, the Kia Picanto is undoubtedly the better choice. It offers space that approaches that of cars a class above. The Fiat 500, on the other hand, is the choice for those who prefer iconic style and for whom a smaller boot is simply sufficient for their needs.

Towing Capacity: Practicality in a Small Package?

Although the ability to tow a trailer is not usually a priority for minicars, the differences between the Fiat 500 and the Kia Picanto in this discipline are vast and can be a deciding factor for some buyers. Whether you need to haul garden waste or attach a small trailer for your hobbies, one of these cars will meet your needs, while the other will leave you high and dry.

The Fiat 500, specifically its internal combustion engine versions produced until around 2020, surprises with its solid practicality. Most engine options, including the popular petrol 1.2 8V, can handle a braked trailer weighing up to 800 kg and an unbraked one up to 400 kg. This is sufficient for a light caravan, a trailer with a motorbike, or a small load. However, it is crucial to realise that the newer mild-hybrid and fully electric versions, which have been appearing on the used car market since 2020, are generally not homologated for towing a trailer.

On the other hand, there is the third-generation Kia Picanto (JA), produced since 2017. The situation with this model is completely different – it is generally not approved for towing trailers at all. Therefore, if you plan to use a tow hitch, the modern Picanto is not an option for you. Those interested in towing with a Kia will have to look for the older, second generation (TA, 2011–2017), which could tow up to 700 kg, but this is a less common choice on the market for four-year-old cars.

For the buyer, the choice is clear. If you anticipate even occasional use of a trailer, the internal combustion version of the Fiat 500 is the only, and surprisingly capable, solution. The modern Kia Picanto completely lacks this function.

Engine Showdown: Italian Character vs. Korean Efficiency

When it comes to engine choices, the Fiat 500 and Kia Picanto take completely different paths. While Fiat focuses on style and, in recent years, mild-hybrid technology, Kia offers a more traditional, yet proven and broader, range of naturally aspirated and turbocharged engines. This difference in philosophy fundamentally affects both the driving experience and running costs, and it is a key factor when deciding between these two city cars.

Fiat 500: From a Unique Twin-Cylinder to an Economical Hybrid

The engine lineup for the Fiat 500 has undergone a significant transformation in recent years. For used cars that are several years old, two petrol engines are typical. The icon is undoubtedly the turbocharged two-cylinder 0.9 TwinAir, which gives the car an unmistakable, slightly gutsy sound and surprising dynamism. Alongside it was the proven and reliable four-cylinder 1.2 8V, which represents a safe bet on simplicity and low service costs. Since 2020, the main engine has been the modern 1.0 GSE Mild-Hybrid, which replaced the older units and brought a reduction in fuel consumption, especially in urban traffic. The 1.3 Multijet diesel engine was discontinued around 2018 and is therefore only available in older model years.

Kia Picanto: A Clear Choice for Every Driver

The third-generation Kia Picanto (JA) offers a clearer and more traditionally conceived range of engines, which nevertheless appeals to a wide spectrum of drivers. The base is the economical three-cylinder 1.0 DPi, ideal for city driving. For those who venture outside the city more often, there is the more powerful four-cylinder 1.2 DPi, which provides better dynamics and more refined operation. The top of the range and the choice for enthusiastic drivers is the turbocharged three-cylinder 1.0 T-GDI, which turns the Picanto into an unexpectedly brisk and fun car. Most engines are available with both manual and automated manual (AMT) transmissions.

Summary and Recommendations:

• For drivers focused on style and modern technology: The Fiat 500 with the 1.0 Mild-Hybrid engine is an excellent choice for economical city driving. If you're looking for something with a unique character, don't be afraid of the 0.9 TwinAir two-cylinder.
• For pragmatic drivers and beginners: The Kia Picanto with the 1.0 DPi engine is a reliable and very economical choice for daily commutes.
• For those who want more than just a city runabout: The Picanto with the 1.2 DPi engine will offer more versatility, while the 1.0 T-GDI version is the clear choice for those who want to have a bit of fun behind the wheel of a small car.

Choosing the right engine is key to long-term satisfaction. In the smallest city car segment, where the Fiat 500 and Kia Picanto compete, we fortunately still encounter simple and proven technology. Both models have primarily relied on naturally aspirated petrol engines, which is great news for reliability and low service costs. While Fiat opted for modern mild-hybrid technology after 2020, Kia remained faithful to classic engines with indirect injection, which are considered a safe bet.

For the Fiat 500, we recommend: 1.0 GSE Hybrid (51 kW / 70 hp)

The best choice for the Fiat 500 in recent years is undoubtedly the one-litre three-cylinder with mild-hybrid assistance, which replaced the legendary but outdated 1.2 FIRE engine in 2020. This new power unit from the Firefly family represents an ideal compromise for urban and suburban driving.

• Why it's the best choice: The engine is excellently soundproofed and refined; you barely notice it at idle. The mild-hybrid system (BSG - belt-driven starter-generator) not only helps reduce consumption but, above all, smooths out the start-stop system's function and provides a little assistance during acceleration. This makes city driving smoother.
• Technical advantages: In real-world conditions, it's easy to achieve a fuel consumption of around 5 l/100 km. The engine has a simple design with indirect injection, which reduces the risk of expensive repairs. The six-speed manual gearbox is optimally geared for city speeds.
• Risks and weaknesses: As this is a relatively modern power unit, long-term experience is still being gathered. However, current practice does not indicate any systematic problems. The mild-hybrid system with a small lithium battery under the driver's seat has been reliable so far. Performance outside the city is rather average, making it not an ideal partner for motorway driving.
• Who it's suitable for: For drivers who primarily drive in and around the city and want the lowest possible running costs and modern technology. If you are looking at older models (before 2020), the immortal and completely reliable four-cylinder 1.2 8V (51 kW) is an absolute safe bet, albeit with slightly higher fuel consumption.

For the Kia Picanto, we recommend: 1.2 MPI (62 kW / 84 hp)

While the basic one-litre three-cylinder in the Picanto is sufficient for undemanding short trips, we consider the more powerful 1.2 MPI four-cylinder (designated as 1.25 CVVT or DPi in some model years) to be the optimal and most versatile choice. This engine elevates the usability of the small Picanto to a whole new level.

• Why it's the best choice: The main reason is refinement. The four-cylinder design ensures much smoother operation and minimal vibration compared to the three-cylinder. The power difference of almost 20 horsepower is huge in such a light car – overtaking and motorway driving are much safer and more comfortable.
• Technical advantages: The engine belongs to the proven Kappa family, which is renowned for its reliability and simplicity. It uses multi-point fuel injection (MPI), which eliminates the carbon build-up problems typical of direct-injection engines. Real-world fuel consumption is around 5.5 l/100 km, which is only a few tenths more than the weaker 1.0 MPI engine.
• Risks and weaknesses: This engine is considered one of the most reliable in its class and does not suffer from any specific, recurring faults. The only condition for trouble-free operation is adherence to regular service intervals, especially timely oil changes.
• Who it's suitable for: Practically anyone who doesn't plan to drive exclusively in the city centre. If you often travel with a passenger, occasionally drive on country roads or motorways, the more powerful four-cylinder is the clear choice for you. The price premium on the used car market is minimal, but the added value in terms of dynamics and comfort is enormous.

Real-world consumption: Who drives for less?

The paper consumption figures provided by manufacturers are one thing, but the day-to-day reality on the road is often different. To get the most accurate picture of the actual running costs of the Fiat 500 and Kia Picanto, we looked at data from drivers themselves, who meticulously record every refuelling on portals like the German Spritmonitor.de. It is from these hundreds of real-world experiences that we can see how both cars perform in normal operation.

In the battle of small engines, which are key for these cars, interesting differences emerge. The post-facelift Fiat 500 relies primarily on a mild-hybrid one-litre three-cylinder, while the Kia Picanto offers proven naturally aspirated engines and, previously, a turbocharged version.

The table shows that the basic engines of both models are very similar in terms of consumption. The Fiat 500 with mild-hybrid technology can be particularly economical in the city, where the assistance of the electric motor is most noticeable. Its long-term average is around 5.8 l/100 km, but with a calm driving style outside the city, it's not a problem to get under five litres. In contrast, the older but still popular 1.2 8V four-cylinder in the Fiat has a very similar appetite, averaging between 5.2 and 5.9 litres.

The Kia Picanto with the basic 1.0 DPi engine keeps pace with the Fiat, with real-world consumption ranging between 5.2 and 5.7 litres. The more powerful 1.2 DPi version is slightly thirstier, which is the price for better dynamics, and in reality, it averages 6.0 l/100 km. The least economical variant, as expected, is the turbocharged 1.0 T-GDI three-cylinder, which can consume almost 7 litres during more dynamic driving.

For drivers who spend most of their time in the city, the mild-hybrid Fiat 500 may be slightly more advantageous thanks to more efficient recuperation and start-up assistance. On longer journeys, the differences between the basic naturally aspirated engines of both cars blur. In the end, however, fuel consumption is not a major issue for either of these models, and the differences are so small that they should not be the main deciding factor. The choice will therefore depend more on preferences regarding dynamics, equipment, and design.

Used car price comparison: Style for a premium, or a safe bet?

A look at the used car market clearly shows that the Fiat 500 and Kia Picanto target slightly different customer groups, also in terms of price. Although both models fall into the same category of city minicars, their price tags can vary significantly, reflecting their image and market position.

Fiat 500: An icon that holds its value

The Fiat 500 is not just a car; it's a fashion accessory. And this is reflected in its residual value. Used models aged three to five years generally hold their value better than many competitors in their class.

• Price range: For models from 2020–2022 with reasonable mileage (usually up to 50,000 km), prices most often range from €10,000 to €13,000.
• Factors affecting price: The price is significantly influenced not only by mileage and technical condition but also by colour, equipment (e.g., panoramic roof, automatic air conditioning), and special editions. Cars with a hybrid drive tend to be slightly more expensive.
• Value: The Fiat 500 is a bet on style. The higher purchase price of a used car is the tax for its iconic design and cult status. However, it can be assumed that it will continue to hold its value better than its more practically oriented competition.

Kia Picanto: Practicality and affordability in the leading role

The Kia Picanto is the epitome of a sensible choice. It offers modern technology and reliability in a practical package, all at a very attractive price on the used car market.

• Price range: Comparably aged Picanto models (2020–2022) can be purchased for significantly lower amounts. Prices commonly range from €7,000 to €11,000. Units with higher mileage can be available for prices around €7,000.
• Factors affecting price: For the Picanto, the main factors are the year of manufacture, equipment level (the GT Line or X-Line versions are particularly attractive), and the number of kilometres driven. The remainder of the factory warranty is also a big draw that can slightly increase the price.
• Value: The Picanto represents an excellent price-to-utility ratio. For your money, you get a modern and well-equipped car whose price on the used market depreciates faster than the stylish Fiat, making it a great second-hand buy.

Verdict

If your main criterion is budget and you're looking for the most utility for the least amount of money, the Kia Picanto is the clear winner. It offers a more modern and practical car for a lower price. However, if you prefer style, image, and are willing to pay extra for a timeless design, the Fiat 500 is unlikely to disappoint, and its higher purchase price will be offset by a slower depreciation in value.

Safety and Euro NCAP results

Although both cars have received star ratings in Euro NCAP crash tests in the past, it is crucial to look at the context and the year of testing. The Euro NCAP methodology is constantly being tightened, so a direct comparison of percentage results from different years is not meaningful. Newer tests place much greater emphasis on active safety assistants and the protection of vulnerable road users.

Fiat 500

For a relevant comparison, it is necessary to focus on the fully electric Fiat 500e, which was tested in 2021 under significantly stricter rules than the older combustion model or the Picanto. It received a solid four stars, which confirms its modern construction. It achieved 76% in adult protection and an even better 80% in child protection. A score of 67% for the protection of vulnerable road users (pedestrians, cyclists) and 67% for safety assistance systems proves that the Fiat 500e is equipped with modern technologies, such as autonomous emergency braking, which are standard today.

Kia Picanto

The Kia Picanto last underwent Euro NCAP tests in 2017. At that time, it received a dual rating: three stars in standard equipment and four stars with the optional safety package. However, it is crucial to state that this rating expired at the beginning of 2024. This means that from the perspective of current Euro NCAP requirements, the car no longer meets the necessary standards to be awarded these stars. Although adult occupant protection was rated highly in 2017 (87% with the package), it now lags significantly behind today's requirements in the areas of assistance systems (47%) and pedestrian protection (54%).

Conclusion

In the area of safety, the winner is clear. The Fiat 500e offers a more modern and demonstrably higher level of protection, confirmed by its more recent 2021 test conducted under stricter criteria. It has more advanced assistance systems and an overall more robust construction designed for current safety challenges. The Kia Picanto's safety rating is outdated and has expired, indicating that it does not offer a comparable level of protection compared to newer cars.

In addition to standard equipment, each model offers several unique features that can be decisive for the customer. While the Fiat 500 focuses on style and emotion, the Kia Picanto concentrates on practicality and modern technology.

Fiat 500: A style icon and special editions

The Fiat 500 is much more than just a car; it's a fashion accessory. Its strength lies not only in its driving characteristics but in its unique style and personalization options, which are unparalleled in this class.

• Endless personalization options: The main attraction of the Fiat 500 is its retro design and the huge number of special and limited editions created in collaboration with brands like Gucci, Riva, or as part of anniversary celebrations (Anniversario, Collezione 1957). This makes almost every piece an original. Customers could choose from a wide range of colours, decals, and wheel designs.
• Stylish interior: The dashboard painted in the body colour and the central circular digital instrument cluster create an unmistakable atmosphere that harks back to the original model from the 1950s. Even after years, the interior feels original and fresh.
• Uconnect Infotainment: Higher versions are equipped with a 7-inch Uconnect touchscreen system that supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Although the system is not among the most modern on the market, its integration into the retro design is well-executed and perfectly adequate for everyday use.
• Mild-Hybrid Powertrain: Modernized versions are often equipped with a mild-hybrid system with a one-litre FireFly engine. This technology helps reduce fuel consumption in the city and ensures smoother operation of the Start-Stop system, which increases comfort when driving in traffic jams.
• Unique Cabrio version (500C): As one of the few cars in its segment, the Fiat 500 offers a variant with an electrically retractable fabric roof, which enhances its lifestyle character and the driving experience in sunny weather.

Kia Picanto: Practicality and technology for every day

The Kia Picanto takes the opposite approach. It doesn't try to be a retro icon at all costs, but offers maximum utility, modern technology, and practicality in a small and affordable package.

• Generous infotainment: The Picanto often scores points with its large, 8-inch infotainment touchscreen display, which is above standard for its class. Support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is a given, and most trims include a rear parking camera, which significantly facilitates maneuvering in the city.
• GT-Line sport package: For those who desire a more dynamic look, the GT-Line version is available. It gives the small car more aggressive bumpers, more prominent wheels, and sporty details in the interior, such as a flat-bottomed steering wheel.
• Modern driving assistants: Unlike many competitors in the A-segment, the Picanto can be equipped with advanced assistance systems. These include Lane Following Assist (LFA) or Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA), which increases safety in heavy traffic.
• Practical Details: Kia focuses on everyday usability. It offers five full-sized seats (compared to four in the Fiat), a larger boot space (255 litres vs. 185 litres), and in higher trim levels, a practical false boot floor.
• Superior Warranty: A significant advantage is the seven-year factory warranty, which gives the owner peace of mind and security even after several years of use, a strong selling point in the small car segment.

Fiat 500

Advantages:

• Iconic and Timeless Design: The Fiat 500 is a stylish car that stands out from the competition and ages slowly. Its retro look is a major draw for many buyers.
• Excellent City Maneuverability: Thanks to its small dimensions and light steering (especially with the "City" function), parking and navigating city traffic is a breeze.
• Low Running Costs: Especially with the 1.0 FireFly hybrid engine, it offers very favourable fuel consumption. Basic servicing and common spare parts are also affordable.
• Wide Personalisation Options: There is a large number of used cars on the market in various colour combinations, editions, and with diverse equipment, allowing you to find a truly unique piece.
• Surprisingly Comfortable Suspension: For a small car, the 500 handles filtering out city bumps very well and offers a comfortable ride.

Disadvantages:

• Very Limited Interior Space: Rear-seat passengers have minimal legroom and headroom, making the seats suitable for emergency use only.
• Small and Impractical Boot: The 185-litre capacity is only enough for a small shopping trip, and its usability is limited by a high loading lip.
• Outdated Interior and Infotainment: The ergonomics and dashboard design feel dated, and the basic versions of the Uconnect infotainment system are now obsolete.
• Weaker Driving Characteristics Outside the City: On motorways and in fast corners, the taller body and reduced stability become apparent. The basic engines lack the power for dynamic driving.

Kia Picanto

Advantages:

• Spacious and Practical Interior: Within its class, the Picanto offers a surprising amount of space for passengers in both the front and back, and one of the largest boots (255 litres).
• Excellent Price-to-Value Ratio: As a used car, it offers a wealth of features for a very reasonable price. Even lower trim levels often include air conditioning or a radio with Bluetooth.
• Agile and Fun Driving Characteristics: Thanks to its low weight, well-tuned suspension, and precise steering, driving the Picanto, especially in turbocharged versions, is fun not just in the city.
• Still-Valid Factory Warranty: Thanks to Kia's seven-year warranty, even a car that is several years old may still have a valid manufacturer's warranty, providing peace of mind.
• Modern and Clear Interior: The dashboard is ergonomically well-designed, and higher versions feature a modern "floating" touchscreen infotainment display.

Disadvantages:

• Noisier at Higher Speeds: The sound insulation is weaker, which is particularly noticeable on the motorway, where wind and tyre noise are audible.
• Firmer Suspension Tuning: While the suspension is agile in the city, it can feel less comfortable on rough roads, transmitting more jolts into the cabin.
• Less Distinctive Design: Compared to the Fiat 500, the Picanto's appearance is much more conventional and less emotive, which may not suit everyone.
• Base Naturally Aspirated Engines are Sluggish: For driving outside the city or with a fully occupied car, the basic MPI engines lack power and flexibility.

Based on our own CarAudit inspections, breakdown statistics, and service data, we have compiled an overview of the most common problems that used car buyers should watch out for. Although both cars are considered relatively reliable, each has its specific weak spots.

Fiat 500: Italian Charm with a Few Quirks

The Fiat 500 is a stylish car, but its mechanics, especially in older and higher-mileage examples, require attention. Problems are not unheard of even in newer models, albeit to a lesser extent.

Dualogic Gearbox

• Problem: The biggest and most frequently mentioned bugbear is the Dualogic automated manual gearbox. Owners report jerky shifting, a reluctance to engage a gear (especially when cold), or getting completely stuck in neutral.
• Symptoms and Solution: Problems usually appear after 40,000 - 60,000 km. The cause is often wear on the actuator (robot), hydraulic pump, or control unit. Repairs are expensive and require a specialist who understands this system. When buying a used car, the manual gearbox is a much safer choice.

Electronics and Electrical Equipment

• Start-Stop System: It often fails, especially with frequent short city trips. The reason is low battery voltage (the system is sensitive to drops below 12.4 V) or faulty sensors. The lifespan of the special AGM battery is often only 3–4 years.
• Electric Power Steering: In older model years (especially before 2012), the entire power steering module was prone to failure. It manifests as stiffening of the steering and the illumination of a warning light. Refurbishment is possible but still costly.
• Other Electronics: Minor issues sometimes occur, such as non-functional electric windows, central locking malfunctions, or error messages from ABS and airbag sensors.

Chassis and Engine

• Front Axle: In cars with higher mileage, play can develop in the silent blocks and arms of the front axle, which manifests as a knocking sound when driving over bumps. A thorough technical inspection of the car is essential here.
• 1.0 Hybrid Engine: The newer mild-hybrid three-cylinder FireFly engine (from 2020) is considered reliable and mechanically robust.
• Older Engines: Older 1.2 and 1.4 Fire petrol units can suffer from increased oil consumption if maintenance is neglected.

Summary for Fiat 500: The main risk is the Dualogic gearbox and various electronic faults. These are mostly nuisances, but repairing the gearbox can significantly strain the budget.

Kia Picanto: A safe bet with minor flaws

The Kia Picanto has built a reputation as a reliable and low-maintenance car, which is confirmed by statistics and owner experiences. Most problems are of a minor nature.

Gearbox and Clutch

• Manual gearbox: The five-speed manual gearbox (type M5CF1) may show the first signs of wear after around 80,000 km. Typical issues include whining bearings (especially when cold) and worn synchronizers, making it difficult to shift into first and second gear.
• Clutch life: The clutch kit in manual gearboxes has an average lifespan, which can be shortened to under 100,000 km with frequent city driving.

Electronics

• Battery drain: Some third-generation owners have reported cases of unexpected battery discharge, likely due to a parasitic current draw or a fault in the alternator. However, this is not a widespread problem.

Chassis and Interior

• Chassis: It is robust and handles even rougher roads well. Play in the components only appears at higher mileages, and repairs are not expensive.
• Seatbelt retraction: A minor but annoying flaw mentioned by some users is the slow or incomplete retraction of the seatbelts.
• Warranty: A major advantage of the Picanto is its seven-year factory warranty. For a four-year-old car, a significant portion of the warranty period still remains, which can cover any unexpected faults.

Summary for Kia Picanto: Problems are rather exceptional and usually not expensive to fix. Thanks to its simple technology and long warranty, the Picanto is a very safe choice in terms of reliability.

When buying a used car, a thorough inspection is key, and these two reliable small cars are no exception. Here are a few specific points to focus on for the Fiat 500 and the Kia Picanto.

When choosing a Fiat 500:

• Dualogic gearbox: If you are considering a version with the automated Dualogic gearbox, pay close attention to it. During a test drive, watch for smooth shifting without jerking or long delays. Try slow crawling in traffic as well as sharp acceleration. Any hesitation could signal wear in the hydraulic system, which is expensive to repair.
• Electrical equipment: Carefully test all electrical components – power windows, central locking, and especially the power steering with the "City" function. Problems with control units or power steering motors sometimes occur. Don't be dismissed by a warning light on the dashboard or stiff steering.
• Chassis and steering: While driving over bumps, listen for any knocking sounds from the front axle. The top strut mounts and axle arms wear out more often, but fortunately, these are relatively cheap repairs. Also, check for play in the steering.
• Paint condition and corrosion: The Fiat 500 does not have major problems with corrosion, but the lower edges of the doors and sills can be risk areas. Also, inspect the paint on the bonnet and bumper, which is prone to damage from stone chips. Any comprehensive vehicle inspection should reveal any hidden problems.

When choosing a Kia Picanto:

• Clutch on manual gearbox: The clutch can be excessively worn, especially in cars used mainly in the city. During a test drive, try shifting into a higher gear at lower revs and applying the throttle. If the engine revs increase but the car does not accelerate smoothly, the clutch is slipping and will need replacement.
• Air conditioning and heating: Thoroughly test the functionality of the air conditioning. It must start cooling quickly and without any odours. Check the heating as well. Poor performance could mean a leak in the system or a problem with the compressor.
• Infotainment and connectivity: On higher trims with a touchscreen, try all the functions. Check the system's touch response, pair your phone via Bluetooth, and test Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. Freezing or slow responses may require a software update.
• Brake system: Kia Picanto cars are light, but the brakes can be under more strain in city traffic. During the drive, watch for vibrations in the steering wheel or pedal when braking, which would indicate warped discs. A physical inspection of the used car should also include checking the thickness of the brake discs and pads.

Sources: ADAC, e15.cz, mdcr.cz, fdrive.cz, autoexpress.cz, mesec.cz

This article was prepared using artificial intelligence tools. The section guarantor is Petr Dušek.