Kia Picanto breaks sales record, demand at all-time high

In the ever-evolving world of automobiles, where the latest technology and features often come at a premium price, Australian car buyers are proving that affordable doesn't mean sacrificing quality. The Kia Picanto, priced at less than $20,000, is causing quite a stir in the market, with record orders and deliveries. In this blog post, we'll dive into the recent surge in demand for the Kia Picanto and explore what sets it apart in a segment where options have dwindled

The Kia Picanto's Record-Breaking Run

According to VFACTS industry sales data, the Kia Picanto has hit a new milestone in the Australian automotive market. In the last month alone, a staggering 978 Kia Picanto city hatchbacks were sold, marking a new record. What's even more impressive is that this figure represents a 54% increase compared to the same month in the previous year. Kia Australia attributes this success to both an increase in production to meet existing backorders and a surge in new orders, which are being written at an all-time high.

The Shrinking Affordable Car Market

The Kia Picanto finds itself in a unique position as one of only two new cars priced below $20,000 in Australia, regardless of on-road costs such as registration and stamp duty. The other contender in this category is the MG 3 from China, which reported 1153 sales (deliveries) last month. However, the availability of sub-$20,000 new cars has been rapidly declining due to several factors, including rising manufacturing and shipping costs, more stringent safety requirements, and increasing consumer expectations for standard crash-avoidance technology.

To put this into perspective, back in 2019, buyers with a $20,000 budget had the luxury of choosing from over 60 vehicles across 19 models and 14 manufacturers, including well-known brands like Fiat, Honda, Hyundai, Mazda, Mitsubishi, Suzuki, and Toyota. Today, the options have narrowed significantly, with only MG and Kia offering five model grades priced below $20,000 before on-road costs and just three model grades priced below $20,000 drive-away.

Kia Picanto's Winning Formula

Among the Kia Picanto's various model grades, the S grade stands out, accounting for 41% of Picanto sales this year. Priced from $16,290 plus on-road costs (which is $2,100 more than four years ago), it offers a great value proposition. Buyers can also opt for the $18,890 drive-away package with a five-speed manual or the $17,890 plus on-roads/$19,890 drive-away package with a four-speed auto.

However, the top seller in the Picanto lineup is the better-equipped GT-Line, making up 56% of the mix. Priced from $17,740 plus on-roads/$20,390 drive-away with a manual, or $19,340 plus on-roads/$21,390 drive-away with an automatic transmission, it strikes an excellent balance between affordability and features.

The Future of Affordable Cars

Despite its current success, the Kia Picanto faces potential changes on the horizon. An updated model is expected to arrive by the end of the year, featuring even more crash-avoidance technology as standard. While this could enhance safety, it may also push the price above the $20,000 threshold.

Kia Australia, however, offers some reassuring news. Improved supply means that buyers who place a new Picanto order today can anticipate production the following month plus shipping. This speaks to Kia's commitment to meet the growing demand for affordable and reliable vehicles in Australia.

In a market where the cost of new cars continues to rise, the Kia Picanto stands as a testament to the enduring demand for affordable options. Its record-breaking sales and diverse model lineup demonstrate that quality, style, and features don't have to come at a premium price. As the automotive landscape continues to evolve, it will be fascinating to see how Kia and other manufacturers adapt to meet the needs of budget-conscious consumers. The future may hold exciting surprises for the affordable car segment.

Ensure you search the Kia Stock, at the Tynan Showroom, located in Sutherland or online here.