BAIC B40 Plus vs KIA Picanto
A proper head-to-head in South Africa — compare price, performance, fuel economy or electric range, safety and the details that shape long-term ownership.
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BAIC B40 Plus
Honor Edition
Petrol
8-Speed Automatic
Current
ZAR 699,500
ex-showroom
⚡ 165 kW
🔧 380 Nm
⛽ 9.0 km/l
VS
KIA Picanto
1.2 EX+ Auto
Petrol
4-Speed Automatic
Current
ZAR 325,995
ex-showroom
⚡ 61 kW
🔧 121 Nm
⛽ 15.9 km/l
＋
Add a 3rd car
Decision summary
BAIC B40 Plus vs KIA Picanto: the short answer
B40 Plus and Picanto are close on the comparable published fields, so buyer priorities should decide.
Picanto starts ZAR 462,505 cheaper
B40 Plus from ZAR 699,500 · Picanto from ZAR 236,995
Five key differences
Exact selected derivativesSwipe sideways to compare every column
| Specification | B40 Plus | Picanto |
|---|---|---|
| Maximum Power | B40 Plus165 kW @ 5500 rpm | Picanto61 kW @ 6000 rpm |
| Maximum Torque | B40 Plus380 Nm @ 1750-4500 rpm | Picanto121 Nm @ 4000 rpm |
| Engine Size | B40 Plus1998 cc | Picanto1248 cc |
| Combined Fuel Economy | B40 Plus9.0 km/l | Picanto15.9 km/l |
| Ground Clearance | B40 Plus210 mm | Picanto155 mm |
Strongest published figure in that row; no road-test winner is implied.
Independent editorial assessment
Hagalu editorial ratings
When a variant is selected, its rating out of five applies only to that exact derivative; a model-range review is not inherited. Editorial ratings are separate from the Specification Evidence Index out of 100 and are not customer ratings.
KIA Picanto
1.2 EX+ Auto
Hagalu editorial rating
Not yet rated
No complete editorial rating is published for this exact variant. This is not a zero score.
How Hagalu rates cars →Not yet rated means a complete review is not published; it does not mean the vehicle scored zero. Read the rating methodology.
What Each Car Gets Right (and Wrong)
Specification evidence leader
B40 Plus
Strengths
- More powerful engine output
- Stronger published practicality figures
Weak Spots
- Lower fuel efficiency
- Fewer listed safety features
- Lower published ownership cover
Best suited to:
Published Performance
Published Practicality
Picanto
Strengths
- Better fuel efficiency
- Stronger listed safety equipment
- Stronger published ownership cover
Weak Spots
- Less powerful engine setup
- Lower published practicality figures
Best suited to:
Published Efficiency
Which One's Right for You?
B40 Plus
- Buyers prioritising the stronger published powertrain figures
- Buyers prioritising the stronger published space and capacity figures
Picanto
- Buyers prioritising the lower published fuel or energy use
- Buyers prioritising the more complete listed safety equipment
- Buyers prioritising the stronger published warranty or service cover
Full Specs, Side by Side
Open a category, then swipe sideways to compare every column
| Spec | B40 Plus | Picanto |
|---|---|---|
| Model Introduced Year | 2021 | 2004 |
| Generation | Current B40 Plus Honor Edition within the locally served first B40 Plus generation, using body-on-frame construction and an electronic part-time 4WD system. | Third generation (JA) since 2017; 2021 facelift model current in SA |
| Facelift History | The B40 Plus launched in South Africa in October 2021. The current Honor Edition debuted locally in May 2025, adding electric seat adjustment and a sunroof to the City Hunter-based specification; BAIC now presents it as the sole current B40 Plus derivative. | 2011 second generation; 2017 third generation; 2021 facelift with updated front fascia and infotainment |
| Facelift Launched Since | 2025 | 2021 |
| Facelift Version Ending | Current | Current |
| Body Style | Five-door body-on-frame off-road SUV | Hatchback |
| Model Year | 2021 | 2026 |
| Production Status | active | active |
| Segment | Off-road SUV | Hatchback |
| Vehicle Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Dealer Stock Note | - | Flagship grade in the South Africa lineup |
| Color Note | - | Clear White, Aurora Black Pearl, Chili Red, Horizon Blue, Perennial Grey, Sporty Blue (two-tone options available on EX+) |
| Tare Mass Kg | - | 975 kg |
| Spec | B40 Plus | Picanto |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 4630 mm | 3595 mm |
| Width | 1925 mm | 1595 mm |
| Height | 1871 mm | 1485 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2745 mm | 2400 mm |
| Ground Clearance (Default) | 210 mm | 155 mm |
| Ground Clearance (With Full Seating Load) | 190 mm | 151 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 l | 35 l |
| Boot/Cargo Space | 532 l | 255 l |
| Kerb Weight | 2110 kg | 975 kg |
| Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) | 2535 kg | 1425 kg |
| Payload Capacity | 425 kg | 450 kg |
| Towing Capacity | 1500 kg | 0 kg |
| Seating Capacity | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Rows | 2 rows | 2 rows |
| Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Minimum Turning Radius | Not Officially Disclosed | 4.8 m |
| Front Headroom | 1010 mm | 970 mm |
| Rear Headroom | 1000 mm | 935 mm |
| Front Legroom | 1045 mm | 1040 mm |
| Rear Legroom | 900 mm | 880 mm |
| Spec | B40 Plus | Picanto |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine | 1.2-litre Naturally Aspirated Petrol |
| Engine Code | Not Officially Disclosed | G4LA |
| Fuel Type | Petrol | Petrol |
| Hybrid System | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Engine Displacement | 1998 cc | 1248 cc |
| Cylinders | 4 | 4 |
| Cylinder Layout | Inline | Inline |
| Valves | Not Officially Disclosed | 16 |
| Valves per Cylinder | Not Officially Disclosed | 4 |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | Naturally Aspirated |
| Fuel System | Not Officially Disclosed | Multi-Point Injection |
| Compression Ratio | Not Officially Disclosed | 11.0:1 |
| Bore | Not Officially Disclosed | 71 mm |
| Stroke | Not Officially Disclosed | 79 mm |
| Maximum Power | 165 kW @ 5500 rpm | 61 kW @ 6000 rpm |
| Maximum Torque | 380 Nm @ 1750-4500 rpm | 121 Nm @ 4000 rpm |
| Combined Power | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Combined Torque | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Motor Type | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Number of Motors | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Motor Location | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Drive Type | 4WD | FWD |
| Transmission | 8-Speed Automatic | 4-Speed Automatic |
| Top Speed | 180 km/h | 163 km/h |
| 0-100 km/h | 9.9 sec | 12.9 sec |
| Quarter Mile | 17.2 sec | Not Officially Disclosed |
| Drive Modes | Comfort, Eco, Sport, Snow | Eco |
| Launch Control | No | No |
| Rev Limiter | Not Officially Disclosed | Not Officially Disclosed |
| Power-to-Weight Ratio | 78.2 kW/tonne | 62.6 kW/tonne |
| Torque-to-Weight Ratio | 180.1 Nm/tonne | 124.1 Nm/tonne |
| Battery Capacity | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Usable Battery Capacity | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Battery Type | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Battery Voltage | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Electric Range | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| AC Charging Power | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| DC Charging Power | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| AC Charging Time | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| DC Charging Time | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Regenerative Braking | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Spec | B40 Plus | Picanto |
|---|---|---|
| Gearbox | 8AT | 4-Speed Automatic |
| Drivetrain Layout | 4WD | Front Wheel Drive |
| LSD Available | No | Not Applicable |
| Transfer Case | Electronic 4WD transfer case | Not Applicable |
| Differential Lock | Rear electronic differential lock; Front optional electronic differential lock | Not Applicable |
| Paddle Shifters | Not Officially Disclosed | Not Applicable |
| Final Drive Ratio | Not Officially Disclosed | 4.058:1 |
| Number of Gears | 8 | 4 |
| Transmission Type | 8-speed automatic | Automatic |
| Clutch Type | Not Officially Disclosed | Torque Converter Automatic |
| Gear Shift Indicator | Not Officially Disclosed | Yes |
| Gear Shift Type | Not Officially Disclosed | Floor-Mounted Selector |
| Drivetrain | Electronic time-sharing 4WD | FWD — Front Wheel Drive |
| 4WD Engagement | Electronic time-sharing 4WD | Not Applicable |
| 4WD Hi Range | Standard | Not Applicable |
| 4WD Lo Range | Yes | Not Applicable |
| 4WD Selector | Electronic 4WD transfer case | Not Applicable |
| Automatic Shift Paddles | Not Officially Disclosed | Not Applicable |
| Front Differential Lock | Optional electronic differential lock | Not Applicable |
| Gearbox Type | Automatic | 4-Speed Automatic |
| Low Range Ratio | Not Officially Disclosed | Not Applicable |
| Low Range | Yes | Not Applicable |
| Axle Layout | Front and rear drive | FWD |
| Rear Differential Lock | Electronic differential lock | Not Applicable |
| Transmission Speeds | 8 | 4 |
| Engine Position | - | Transverse Front-Mounted |
| Steering Turns Lock to Lock | - | 2.8 |
| Transfer Case Guard | - | Not Available |
| Differential Type Front | - | Not Available |
| Differential Type Rear | - | Not Available |
| Spec | B40 Plus | Picanto |
|---|---|---|
| Claimed Mileage | 9.0 km/l | 15.9 km/l |
| City Mileage | 7.6 km/l | 13.0 km/l |
| Highway Mileage | 10.6 km/l | 20.0 km/l |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 l | 35 l |
| Emission Standard | Euro IV | Euro 5 |
| AdBlue Tank Capacity | Not Officially Disclosed | Not Applicable |
| Auto Start Stop | Not Officially Disclosed | No |
| Real-world Mileage | 9.0 km/l | 15.9 km/l |
| Charging Port Type | Not Officially Disclosed | Not Applicable |
| Charging Type | Not Officially Disclosed | Not Applicable |
| Fuel Tank Litres | 75 | 35 |
| Combined Driving Range | Not Officially Disclosed | Not Applicable |
| Electric Consumption | Not Officially Disclosed | Not Applicable |
| Range Real World Highway | Not Officially Disclosed | Not Applicable |
| Range Real World Mixed | Not Officially Disclosed | Not Applicable |
| Distance To Empty | - | Yes |
| Low Fuel Warning | - | Yes |
| Spec | B40 Plus | Picanto |
|---|---|---|
| Airbags | 2 | 6 |
| ABS | Standard | Yes |
| Electronic Stability Control | Standard | Yes |
| Traction Control | Standard | Yes |
| Hill Descent Control | Standard | Not Available |
| Hill Start Assist | Standard | Yes |
| Child Safety Lock | Standard | Yes |
| ISOFIX Mounts | Standard | Yes |
| Brake Assist | Standard | Yes |
| Tyre Pressure Monitor | Standard | Yes |
| Engine Immobiliser | Standard | Yes |
| Alarm System | Standard | Yes |
| Seatbelt Warning All Seats | Standard | Yes |
| Front Parking Sensors | Standard | No |
| AEB | Not Officially Disclosed | Yes |
| BA | Standard | Yes |
| Brake Override System | Standard | Yes |
| Curtain Airbags | Not Officially Disclosed | Yes — Full Length Curtain Airbags |
| Driver Airbag | Standard | Yes |
| EBD | Standard | Yes |
| Engine Immobiliser | Standard | Yes |
| Hill Hold | Standard | Yes |
| Passenger Airbag | Standard | Yes |
| Rear Cross Traffic Alert | Not Officially Disclosed | Yes |
| Seatbelt Pretensioners | Standard | Yes — Front Seatbelt Pre-tensioners |
| Seatbelt Reminder | Standard | Yes |
| Side Airbags | Not Officially Disclosed | Yes — Front Side Airbags |
| Stability Control | Standard | Yes |
| TCS | Standard | Yes |
| Knee Airbag | Not Officially Disclosed | No |
| ABS EBD | Standard | Yes |
| Central Locking | - | Yes |
| Side Impact Beams | - | Yes |
| Speed Alert System | - | Yes |
| Safety Rating | - | 3 Stars (Euro NCAP 2017 Assessment) |
| Whiplash Protection | - | Yes — Active Head Restraints Front |
| Pedestrian Detection AEB | - | Yes |
| Blind Spot Monitoring | - | Yes |
| Lane Change Warning | - | Yes |
| Fatigue Detection | - | Yes |
| ESC With Traction Control | - | Yes |
| Driver Front Passenger Airbags | - | 6 |
| Driver Passenger Airbags | - | 6 |
| Anti Theft Alarm | - | Yes |
| Spec | B40 Plus | Picanto |
|---|---|---|
| Cruise Control | Standard | Yes |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | Not Officially Disclosed | Yes |
| Lane Keep Assist | Not Officially Disclosed | Yes |
| Lane Departure Warning | Not Officially Disclosed | Yes |
| Blind Spot Monitoring | Not Officially Disclosed | Yes |
| Rear Cross Traffic Alert | Not Officially Disclosed | Yes |
| Parking Sensors | Standard | Yes |
| Rear View Camera | Yes | Yes |
| 360 Degree Camera | Not Officially Disclosed | No |
| Autonomous Emergency Braking | Not Officially Disclosed | Yes |
| Driver Fatigue Alert | Not Officially Disclosed | Yes |
| Traffic Sign Recognition | Not Officially Disclosed | No |
| Auto Highbeam | Not Officially Disclosed | No |
| Auto Wipers | Not Officially Disclosed | Yes |
| Rear Parking Sensors | Standard | Yes |
| Reverse Camera | Yes | Yes |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | Not Officially Disclosed | Yes |
| Park Assist | Not Officially Disclosed | No |
| Around View Monitor | Not Officially Disclosed | No |
| Blind Spot Warning | Not Officially Disclosed | Yes |
| Forward Collision Warning | Not Officially Disclosed | Not Available |
| Auto Lights | - | Yes |
| Eco Mode | - | Yes |
| Sport Mode | - | No |
| EV Mode | - | Not Applicable — Petrol Engine |
| Emergency Braking | - | Yes |
| Pre-Collision System | - | Yes |
| Rear View Camera | - | Yes |
| Reversing Camera | - | Yes |
| Reverse Camera Type | - | Yes |
| Surround View Camera | Not Officially Disclosed | No |
| Parking Distance Sensors | - | Yes |
| Parking Sensor | - | Yes |
| Front Camera | - | No |
| Automatic High Beam | - | No |
| Rain Sensor Wipers | - | Yes |
| Spec | B40 Plus | Picanto |
|---|---|---|
| Seat Material | Leather | Leather |
| Heated Seats | No | Yes — Front Heated Seats |
| Ventilated Seats | Not Officially Disclosed | No |
| Ambient Lighting | Monochrome | No |
| Steering Wheel Material | Leather | Leather-Wrapped |
| 60 40 Split Seat | Standard | Yes |
| Driver Seat Adjustment | 6-way electric | 6-Way Manual Adjustment |
| Passenger Seat Adjustment | 6-way electric | 4-Way Manual Adjustment |
| Seat Trim | Leather | Leather |
| Front Shoulder Room | - | 1355 mm |
| Rear Shoulder Room | - | 1305 mm |
| Steering Adjustment | - | Tilt and Telescopic |
| Steering Type | - | Electric Power Assisted (EPAS) |
| Instrument Cluster Type | - | Semi-Digital Instrument Cluster |
| Rear USB Ports | - | 0 |
| Fabric Seats | - | No |
| Leather Seats | - | Yes |
| Seat Adjustment | - | Manual 6-Way Driver Seat Adjustment |
| Adjustable Driver Seat | - | Yes |
| Adjustable Front Seat | - | Yes |
| Memory Seats | - | No |
| Cooled Seats | - | No |
| Driver Lumbar Support | - | No |
| Folding Rear Seats | - | Yes — 60/40 Split Fold |
| Front Armrest | - | No |
| Rear Armrest | - | No |
| Cup Holders | - | 2 |
| Rear AC Vents | - | No |
| Door Map Pockets | - | Yes |
| Front Headrest | - | Yes — Adjustable |
| Rear Headrest | - | Yes — Adjustable |
| Interior Colour Options | - | 2 |
| Interior Courtesy Lamps | - | 8-inch touchscreen (EX+), Android Auto/Apple CarPlay (LX+), 4.2-inch colour cluster (EX+), wireless charging (EX+), dual-zone climate control (EX+), 6 airbags standard |
| Boot Space Seats Down | - | 1010 |
| Seat Belt Warning | - | Yes |
| Leather Accented Seat Trim | - | Leather |
| Driver Seat | - | Manual 6-Way Driver Seat Adjustment |
| Seat Fold Type | - | Yes — 60/40 Split Fold |
| Armrest Front | - | No |
| Armrest Rear | - | No |
| Rear Seat Centre Armrest | - | No |
| Interior Colours | - | 2 |
| Interior Trim Colour | - | 2 |
| Seat Adjustment Driver Backrest | - | No |
| Spec | B40 Plus | Picanto |
|---|---|---|
| Climate Control | Dual-zone automatic | Automatic Climate Control |
| Power Windows | Standard | Yes — All Four Windows |
| Keyless Entry | Standard | Yes |
| Push Button Start | Standard | Yes |
| Wireless Charging | Not Officially Disclosed | Yes |
| Sunroof | Standard | No |
| Electric Tailgate | Not Officially Disclosed | No |
| Rain Sensing Wipers | Standard | Yes |
| Boot Space Seats Folded | 965 l | 1010 l |
| AC Type | Dual-zone automatic | Automatic Climate Control |
| Fuel Consumption Combined | 11.1 L/100 km | 6.3 L/100km — WLTP Combined Cycle |
| Boot Space Seats Folded | 965 l | 1010 l |
| Spare Wheel | Full-size spare | Full Size Spare Tyre |
| Tyre Repair Kit | - | No — Full Size Spare Provided |
| Adaptive Dampers | - | No |
| Hill Start Assist | - | Yes |
| Seatbelt Pre Tensioner | - | Yes — Front |
| Speed Alert System | - | Yes |
| Surround View Monitor | Not Officially Disclosed | No |
| Digital Speedometer | - | Yes — Digital Speedometer Display |
| Driver Display | - | Semi-Digital Instrument Cluster with MID |
| Steering Mounted Controls | - | Yes |
| Multi Function Steering | - | Yes |
| Voice Command | - | Yes |
| Voice Command Support | - | Yes |
| Seat Type | - | Leather |
| Rear Seat Split | - | 60/40 Split Fold |
| Front Armrest | - | No |
| Headrest Adjustable | - | Yes |
| Climate Zones | - | Single Zone |
| Push Button Start | Standard | Yes |
| Engine Start Stop Button | Standard | Yes |
| Engine Start Button Illumination | - | Yes |
| Remote Start | - | No |
| Remote Engine Start | - | No |
| Panoramic Roof | Standard | No |
| Powered Tailgate | - | No |
| Boot Opener | - | Yes — Electric Boot Release Button |
| Fuel Lid Opener | - | Yes — Remote Fuel Lid Opener |
| Automatic Headlamps | - | Yes |
| Auto Dimming Mirror | - | No |
| Auto Dimming Irvm | - | No |
| Rear Defogger | - | Yes |
| Rear Window Defroster | - | Yes |
| Electric Mirror Folding | - | Yes |
| Electric Folding Mirrors | - | Yes |
| Power Mirrors | - | Yes |
| Remote Side Mirror | - | Yes |
| Driver Seat Height Adjustment | - | Yes |
| Tachometer | - | Yes |
| Trip Computer | - | Yes |
| Speed Limiter | - | Yes |
| Follow Me Home Headlamps | - | Yes |
| 12V Accessory Socket | - | Yes — 12V Front Accessory Socket |
| Front Power Outlet | - | Yes — 12V Socket |
| Rear Reading Lamps | - | Yes |
| Vanity Mirror | - | Yes |
| Door Ajar Warning | - | Yes |
| Impact Sensing Door Unlock | - | Yes |
| Engine Check Warning | - | Yes |
| Service Reminder | - | Yes |
| Rear Wing | - | No |
| Chrome Grille | - | No |
| Chrome Exterior Highlights | - | Yes |
| Side Steps | - | No |
| Skid Plates | - | No |
| Engine Start Stop | Standard | Yes |
| Heads Up Display | - | No |
| Intercooler | - | Not Applicable — Naturally Aspirated Engine |
| Performance Data Logger | - | No |
| Ride Mode Selection | - | No |
| Rev Matching | - | No |
| Roof Antenna | - | Yes |
| Aero Kit | - | No |
| Exhaust Finish | - | Standard Single Outlet Chrome Tip |
| Exhaust Type | - | Single Exhaust System |
| Glovebox Cooling | - | No |
| Headlamp Height Adjust | - | Yes — Manual Headlamp Beam Adjustment |
| Headlamp Washer | - | No |
| Drag Coefficient | - | 0.32 Cd |
| Stabilizer Bar | - | Front and Rear Anti-Roll Bars |
| Steering Response | - | Electric Power Assisted Steering |
| Tail Lamps | - | Yes |
| Glove Box | - | Yes |
| Engine Warranty | - | 7 Years/150 |
| Trim Level | - | flagship |
| Variant Role | - | Flagship / premium derivative |
| Accelerator 0 100 | - | 12.9 sec |
| Common Rail Injection | - | Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPFI) |
| Diff Lock | - | Not Available |
| Difflock | - | Not Available |
| Vdc | - | Yes |
| TPMS | Standard | Yes |
| Sonar | - | Yes |
| Automatic High Beam | - | No |
| Steering Column Adjustment | - | Tilt and Telescopic |
| Tilt Steering | - | Tilt and Telescopic |
| Telescopic Steering | - | Tilt and Telescopic |
| Bottle Holders | - | 2 |
| Rear Air Conditioning | - | No |
| Air Conditioning | Dual-zone automatic | Automatic Climate Control |
| Manual Aircon | - | Automatic Climate Control |
| Intelligent Keyless Entry | - | Yes |
| Remote Central Locking | - | Yes |
| Passive Entry Start | - | Yes |
| Wireless Charger | Not Officially Disclosed | Yes |
| Lift Gate | - | No |
| Electric Fold Indicator Mirrors | - | Yes |
| Power Socket 12v | - | Yes — 12V Front Accessory Socket |
| Sound System | 6 | 6 |
| Roof Rack Compatibility | - | No |
| Mirror | - | Power Adjustable with Integrated Turn Indicators |
| Rim Size | 17-inch | 15 Inches |
| Stabilizer Bar Front | - | Standard Anti-Roll Bar |
| Stabilizer Bar Rear | - | Standard Anti-Roll Bar |
| Sub Frame | - | Monocoque Unibody Steel Platform |
| Vehicle To Grid | - | Not Available |
| Vehicle To Load | - | Not Available |
| One Pedal Driving | - | Not Available |
| Regenerative Braking Levels | - | Not Available |
| Rear Electric Motor | - | Not Available |
| Battery Preconditioning | - | Not Available |
| Load Bed Cover | - | Not Available |
| Tailgate Lock | - | Not Available |
| Sports Bar | - | Not Available |
| Canopy Fitment | - | Not Available |
| Bed Extender | - | Not Available |
| Source Model Column | - | picanto |
| Intelligent Battery System | - | Not Available |
| Front Diff Lock | - | Not Available |
| Rear Diff Lock | - | Not Available |
| Loadbox Depth Mm | - | Not Available |
| Load Bed Light | - | Not Available |
| Load Bed Steps | - | Not Available |
| Loadbox Rope Hooks | - | Not Available |
| Loadbox Tiedown Brackets | - | Not Available |
| Tailgate Damper | - | Not Available |
| Tow Bar Type | - | Not Available |
| Sport Plus Mode | - | Not Available |
| Unlocking | Standard | Yes |
| Walk Away Lock | - | Yes |
| Walk Away Auto Door Lock | - | Yes |
| Rear LED Combination Taillights | - | Yes |
| Front Wiper | - | Yes — Standard Rear Wiper and Washer |
| Front Wipers Type | - | Yes — Standard Rear Wiper and Washer |
| Rearview Mirror Inside | - | No |
| Vanity Mirror Illuminated | - | Yes |
| Reading Lights Rear | - | Yes |
| Centre Console | - | No |
| Side Impact Bars | - | Yes |
| Load Bed Length | - | Not Applicable |
| Load Bed Width | - | Not Applicable |
| Loadbox Length Mm | - | Not Applicable |
| Loadbox Width Mm | - | Not Applicable |
| Spec | B40 Plus | Picanto |
|---|---|---|
| Infotainment System | 10.25-inch central infotainment system | 8-Inch Touchscreen Infotainment System |
| Apple CarPlay | Not Officially Disclosed | Yes |
| Android Auto | Not Officially Disclosed | Yes |
| Bluetooth Connectivity | Standard | Yes |
| Number of Speakers | 6 | 6 |
| Digital Instrument Cluster | 12.3-inch LCD instrument cluster | Yes — Partial Digital Instrument Cluster |
| USB Ports | Not Officially Disclosed | 2 |
| Infotainment Screen | 10.25-inch central touchscreen | 8-Inch Touchscreen |
| Touchscreen | 10.25-inch central touchscreen | 8-Inch Touchscreen |
| Infotainment Display | - | 8-Inch Touchscreen Display |
| Infotainment Screen Size | 10.25-inch central touchscreen | 8-Inch Touchscreen |
| Wireless Apple CarPlay | Not Officially Disclosed | Yes |
| Navigation System | - | Yes — Smartphone Navigation via Android Auto/CarPlay |
| Rear Usb | - | No |
| Premium Audio | - | No |
| FM Radio | - | Yes |
| Steering Wheel Audio Controls | - | Yes |
| Audio Controls On Steering | - | Yes |
| Voice Recognition | - | Yes |
| AUX Input | - | Yes |
| Wi-Fi Hotspot | - | No |
| Head Up Display | - | No |
| Multi Information Display | - | Semi-Digital Instrument Cluster |
| Display Audio | - | 8-Inch Touchscreen Infotainment System |
| Smartphone Connectivity | - | Yes |
| Connected Services | - | Yes |
| Audio Speakers | 6 | 6 |
| Front Rear USB Charge Ports | - | 2 |
| Voice Control | - | Yes |
| Radio | - | Yes |
| Audio | - | Yes |
| Audio System | - | Yes |
| Wireless Android Auto | Not Officially Disclosed | Yes |
| Spec | B40 Plus | Picanto |
|---|---|---|
| LED Headlamps | Standard | Yes |
| Daytime Running Lamps | LED | Yes — LED Daytime Running Lights |
| Fog Lamps | Yes | Yes |
| Roof Rails | Not Officially Disclosed | No |
| Alloy Wheel Design | Lightweight dual-tone alloy | Sport Design |
| Exterior Colour Options | Ice White, Onyx Black, Desert Red, Ocean Blue, Future Grey, Forest Green | 5 |
| Headlights | Standard | Yes |
| Panoramic Sunroof | Not Officially Disclosed | No |
| Front Overhang | - | 735 mm |
| Rear Overhang | - | 460 mm |
| Body Type | - | 5-Door Hatchback |
| Led Headlights | Standard | Yes |
| DRL | LED | Yes — LED Daytime Running Lights |
| Fog Lights | - | Yes |
| Front Fog Lights | - | Yes |
| Rear Fog Lights | - | Yes |
| Led Taillights | - | Yes |
| Chrome Exterior Finish | - | No |
| Body Cladding | - | No |
| Rear Spoiler | - | Yes — Rear Integrated Spoiler |
| Roof Type | - | Standard Fixed Roof |
| Wing Mirror Type | - | Power Adjustable with Integrated Turn Indicators |
| Rear Wiper | - | Yes — Standard Rear Wiper and Washer |
| Door Handle Finish | - | Body-Coloured Door Handles |
| Exterior Colour Options | - | 6 |
| Exterior Mirror Electric | - | Yes |
| Auto Headlights | - | Yes |
| Automatic Headlamps | - | Yes |
| Headlamps | Standard | Yes |
| Headlight Type | Standard | Yes |
| Exterior Mirror Folding | - | Yes |
| Headlamp Levelling | - | Yes |
| Daytime Running Lights | LED | Yes — LED Daytime Running Lights |
| Front Fog Lamps | Yes | Yes |
| Rear Spoiler | - | Yes — Rear Integrated Spoiler |
| Exterior Door Handle Colour | - | Body-Coloured Door Handles |
| Load Bed Liner | - | Not Available |
| Active Exhaust | - | Not Available |
| Electric Blind Sunroof | - | Not Available |
| Sunroof Slide | - | Not Available |
| Sunroof Tilt | - | Not Available |
| Spec | B40 Plus | Picanto |
|---|---|---|
| Approach Angle | 37 deg | 17 deg |
| Departure Angle | 31 deg | 22 deg |
| Wading Depth | 600 mm | 0 mm |
| Terrain Modes | Snow, Sport, Comfort, Eco | Not Available |
| Locking Differential | Rear axle electronic differential lock | Not Applicable |
| 4WD System Type | Electronic time-sharing 4WD | Not Applicable |
| Breakover Angle | 23 deg | 0 deg |
| Wading Depth Mm | 600 mm | 0 mm |
| Hill Descent Control | Standard | Not Available |
| Underbody Protection | - | Not Available |
| Ramp Breakover Angle | - | 0 deg |
| Ramp-over Angle | - | 0 deg |
| Recovery Hooks | - | 1 Rear Tow Hook |
| Ground Clearance Min | - | 155 mm |
| Ground Clearance Max | - | 155 mm |
| Off Road Descent Control | - | Not Available |
| Terrain Response System | - | Not Available |
| Crawl Control | - | Not Available |
| Underbody Camera | - | Not Available |
| Energy Recovery Display | - | Not Available |
| Terrain Mode Mud | - | Not Available |
| Terrain Mode Normal | - | Not Available |
| Terrain Mode Rock | - | Not Available |
| Terrain Mode Sand | - | Not Available |
| Terrain Mode Snow | - | Not Available |
| Off Road Traction Assist | - | Not Available |
| Skid Plates Transfer Case | - | Not Available |
| Skid Plates Fuel Tank | - | Not Available |
| Front Skid Plate Guard | - | Not Available |
| Rear Skid Plate Guard | - | Not Available |
| Approach Angle Deg | - | 17 deg |
| Departure Angle Deg | - | 22 deg |
| Spec | B40 Plus | Picanto |
|---|---|---|
| Tyre Size | 265/65 R17 | 185/60 R15 |
| Front Brake Type | Ventilated disc | Ventilated Disc |
| Rear Brake Type | Disc | Disc |
| Spare Wheel Type | Full-size spare | Full Size Spare Tyre |
| Wheel Rim Size | 17-inch | 15 Inches |
| Tyre Type | All-Terrain | Tubeless Radial |
| Auto Brake Hold | Yes | Conventional Handbrake |
| Handbrake Type | Electric parking brake | Conventional Handbrake |
| Towing Unbraked Kg | 750 kg | - |
| Wheel Material | Lightweight dual-tone alloy | Sport Design |
| Wheel Type | Lightweight dual-tone alloy | Sport Design |
| Wheel Diameter | 17-inch | 15 Inches |
| Front Tyre Width | - | 185 mm |
| Rear Tyre Width | - | 185 mm |
| Brake Type Front | - | Ventilated Disc |
| Brake Type Rear | - | Disc |
| Front Brake Disc Diameter | - | 247 mm |
| Rear Brake Drum Diameter | - | 234 mm |
| Parking Brake Type | - | Conventional Handbrake |
| Tyre Load Index | - | 84 |
| Tyre Speed Rating | - | T |
| Spare Tyre | Full-size spare | Full Size Spare Tyre |
| Tyre Pressure Monitoring | Standard | Yes |
| Tyre Pressure Display | - | Yes |
| Hydraulic Brake Assist | - | Yes |
| Autonomous Emergency Brake | - | Yes |
| Steering Wheel Audio Controls | - | Yes |
| Wheels | Lightweight dual-tone alloy | Sport Design |
| Spare Wheel Size Type | - | Full Size Spare |
| Electric Park Brake | - | Conventional Handbrake |
| Wheel Size Type | - | 15 Inches |
| Fifth Wheel Prep | - | Not Available |
| Steering Wheel Cruise Controls | - | Yes |
| Steering Wheel Phone Controls | - | Yes |
| Leather Steering Wheel | - | Leather-Wrapped |
| Steering Wheel Trim | - | Leather-Wrapped |
| Brakes | - | Ventilated Disc |
| Electronic Brakeforce Distribution | - | Yes |
| Cornering Brake Control | - | Yes |
| Spec | B40 Plus | Picanto |
|---|---|---|
| Front Suspension | Double wishbone independent front suspension | MacPherson Strut with Coil Spring |
| Rear Suspension | Five-link non-independent rear suspension | Coupled Torsion Beam Axle with Coil Spring |
| Chassis Type | Body-on-frame | Monocoque Unibody Steel Platform |
| Front Track Width | - | 1415 mm |
| Rear Track Width | - | 1420 mm |
| Power Steering | - | Electric Power Assisted (EPAS) |
| Steering Column | - | Tilt and Telescopic Adjustable |
| Front Spring Type | - | Coil Spring |
| Rear Spring Type | - | Coil Spring |
| Front Anti-Roll Bar | - | Standard Anti-Roll Bar |
| Rear Anti-Roll Bar | - | Standard Anti-Roll Bar |
| Shock Absorber Type | - | Telescopic Gas Dampers |
| Front Suspension Type | Double wishbone independent front suspension | MacPherson Strut with Coil Spring |
| Suspension | - | MacPherson Strut with Coil Spring |
| Rear Suspension Type | Five-link non-independent rear suspension | Coupled Torsion Beam Axle with Coil Spring |
| Rear Axle Type | - | Coupled Torsion Beam Axle with Coil Spring |
| Shock Absorbers | - | Telescopic Gas Dampers |
| Chassis Material | - | Monocoque Unibody Steel Platform |
| MagneRide Damping | - | Not Available |
| Spec | B40 Plus | Picanto |
|---|---|---|
| Service Interval | 15000 km | 15,000 km or 12 Months — Whichever First |
| Service Plan Duration | 4 years / 60000 km | 3 Years/45 |
| Service Plan Distance | 4 years / 60000 km | 3 Years/45 |
| Service Plan | 4 years / 60000 km | 3 Years/45 |
| Engine Oil Capacity | - | 3.8 l |
| Approx Service Cost | - | Approx R2,500–R3,200 per Service |
| Battery Warranty | - | 12 Months KIA Battery Warranty |
| Maintenance Plan | - | Included — 3 Years/45 |
| Engine Oil Change Interval | - | 10,000 km or 6 Months |
| First Service At | - | 1,000 km Inspection and Safety Check |
| Anti-Rust Treatment | - | Underbody Anti-Rust Protection |
| Alternator | - | 80A Alternator |
| Service Intervals | - | 15,000 km or 12 Months — Whichever First |
| Accessory Battery Type | - | 12V 45Ah Lead-Acid Battery |
| Spec | B40 Plus | Picanto |
|---|---|---|
| Warranty Years | 5 years / 120000 km | 7 Years/150 |
| Warranty Kilometers | 5 years / 120000 km | 7 Years/150 |
| Warranty | 5 years / 120000 km | 7 Years/150 |
| Roadside Assistance | - | 5 Years Roadside Assistance |
| Anti-Corrosion Warranty | - | 5 Years |
| Basic Warranty | 5 years / 120000 km | 7 Years/150 |
| Roadside Assistance | - | 5 Years Roadside Assistance |
| Warranty Roadside Assistance | - | 5 Years Roadside Assistance |
| Spec | B40 Plus | Picanto |
|---|---|---|
| CO2 Emissions | Not Officially Disclosed | 145 g/km |
| Fuel Octane Requirement | 92 RON or higher petrol | 93 RON Unleaded |
| Variable Valve Timing | - | CVVT on Intake Camshaft |
| Start Stop System | - | No |
| Noise Level | - | 68 dB |
| Hybrid System Type | - | Not Applicable |
| Particulate Filter | - | GPF Fitted |
| Euro Emission Standard | - | Euro 5 |
| Green NCAP Rating | - | Not Independently NCAP Green Rated |
| Idle CO2 Output | - | Within Euro 5 Emission Limits |
| Fuel Evaporation Control | - | Evaporative Emission Control (EVAP) |
| CO2 Emissions G Km | - | 145 |
| Spec | B40 Plus | Picanto |
|---|---|---|
| Ownership Role | Private buyer ownership with BAIC South Africa warranty and service support | Flagship |
| Price Zar | 699500 ZAR | 325995 ZAR |
| Pricing Role | Current ex-showroom price | Current listed price |
| Starting Price | 699500 | 325995 |
| Starting Price Zar | 699500 | 325995 |
| Spec | B40 Plus | Picanto |
|---|---|---|
| Real-world City Mileage Min | - | 7.2 l/100km |
| Real-world City Mileage Max | - | 8.8 l/100km |
| Real-world Highway Mileage Min | - | 4.5 l/100km |
| Real-world Highway Mileage Max | - | 5.5 l/100km |
| Owner Review Count | - | 0 |
In depth: how these cars differ
This B40 Plus and Picanto comparison uses the exact derivatives selected above for South Africa. The catalogue index covers performance, efficiency, safety equipment, practicality and ownership cover only where comparable source-backed fields are present.
Performance index: B40 Plus 71 vs Picanto 28.
Efficiency index: B40 Plus 41 vs Picanto 61.
Safety-equipment index: B40 Plus 57 vs Picanto 89.
Practicality index: B40 Plus 67 vs Picanto 53.
Ownership-cover index: B40 Plus 62 vs Picanto 77.
These figures are Hagalu catalogue-comparison indicators, not customer ratings, crash-test scores, resale guarantees or a substitute for a road test. Each page shows its weighted source coverage beside the result.
Model imagery
B40 Plus and Picanto image comparison
Open an image for its full canonical file or visit the model page for the complete vehicle record.
BAIC B40 Plus
View 8 more B40 Plus images
KIA Picanto
View 8 more Picanto images
Specification Evidence Index
A transparent comparison of published catalogue fields. This is not a road-test score, owner rating or editorial review rating, and it appears only when every vehicle clears the same comparable-data threshold.
Evidence-index readout
B40 Plus leads by 1 points
B40 Plus and Picanto are close on the comparable published fields, so buyer priorities should decide.
Evidence leader
61
/100
Lead
1
points
Data
92%
source coverage
61
#1
Evidence leader
B40 Plus
92% source coverage
1 strong categories
Best at
Performance 71
Check
Efficiency 41
Performance
71
Efficiency
41
Safety
57
Practicality
67
Ownership
62
Leads by 1 points
60
#2
Picanto
92% source coverage
2 strong categories
Best at
Safety 89
Check
Performance 28
Performance
28
Efficiency
61
Safety
89
Practicality
53
Ownership
77
Performance 24%
Safety 22%
Practicality 22%
Efficiency 17%
Ownership 15%
Category leaders
What moves the verdict
Performance
B40 Plus +43
Efficiency
Picanto +20
Safety
Picanto +32
Practicality
B40 Plus +14
Ownership
Picanto +15
Close catalogue match. Buyer priorities should decide the outcome.
Why this score View full breakdown
Evidence-index leader
B40 Plus
Performance
71/100
Efficiency
41/100
Safety
57/100
Practicality
67/100
Ownership
62/100
Picanto
Performance
28/100
Efficiency
61/100
Safety
89/100
Practicality
53/100
Ownership
77/100
What the evidence means
Evidence index
BAIC B40 Plus
leads the specification evidence index with 61 pts
vs 60 pts for Picanto
In Hagalu's specification evidence index, B40 Plus leads. However, Picanto may suit buyers prioritising different confirmed fields. Ultimately, the right choice depends on your driving priorities in South Africa.
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B40 Plus vs Picanto questions
There is no universal winner. Use the comparison table to match the models and available derivatives in South Africa on price, safety equipment, space, powertrain and ownership cover. The category indicators summarise published catalogue data; they are not a road test or customer rating.
Compare the published consumption or mileage rows for the exact derivatives using the same unit and test basis. A catalogue figure is useful for like-for-like comparison, but traffic, speed, load, weather and driving style can change actual fuel use.
Compare only equipment explicitly listed for each derivative, including airbags, stability control and driver-assistance systems. Confirm the exact trim with the manufacturer, and treat any independent crash-test result separately because equipment and ratings can differ by market.
A reliable five-year total cannot be calculated from catalogue data alone. Add the exact purchase and finance cost, fuel or electricity, insurance quotes, scheduled servicing, tyres and expected resale value. Check whether the selected derivative includes a service or maintenance plan.
Use the seating, boot or load-space, ISOFIX and safety rows as a first check. Then test the exact cars with your child seats, passengers and typical luggage, because published dimensions do not show every access or comfort difference.
Compare the published power, torque and 0–100 km/h rows when they are available for both exact derivatives. Vehicle weight, gearing and power delivery also matter, so catalogue outputs alone do not establish real-world overtaking or response.