Does the Kia Picanto have a good automatic gearbox?

I have narrowed down my choice of new car to either a Kia Picanto automatic or a Dacia Sandero automatic. I currently have a 1.2 Picanto automatic, which I'm very pleased with. The new model only comes with a 1.0-litre engine and I have heard negative comments about its auto box. I'm also concerned about its overall performance with this smaller engine. Would the latest Sandero automatic be a better all-around choice? Thank you in anticipation of your help and advice.

Asked on 30 April 2021 by John Welsh

Answered by Andrew Brady

Unfortunately, small cars with good automatic gearboxes are increasingly difficult to come by. We'd avoid the automated manual in the Picanto – it's slow and clumsy, and not a patch on the older torque-converter transmission. The CVT gearbox in the Sandero is a better (if not perfect) solution. You get a lot more for your money with the Sandero, too.

Tags: small automatics automatic cars

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