Rolls-Royce Dawn 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.
Current, upcoming and historical vehicles can be compared side by side. Historical records keep their verified specifications, while price labels show last-listed context rather than current new-car availability.
Rolls-Royce Dawn
KIA Picanto
Decision summary
Rolls-Royce Dawn vs KIA Picanto: the short answer
Dawn has a modest catalogue-index lead, while Picanto remains close.
Five key differences
Exact selected derivativesSwipe sideways to compare every column
| Specification | Dawn | Picanto |
|---|---|---|
| Maximum Power | Dawn420 kW @ 5250-6000 rpm | Picanto61 kW @ 6000 rpm |
| Maximum Torque | Dawn820 Nm @ 1600-4750 rpm | Picanto121 Nm @ 4000 rpm |
| Engine Size | Dawn6592 cc | Picanto1248 cc |
| Combined Fuel Economy | Dawn6.99 km/l | Picanto15.9 km/l |
| Ground Clearance | Dawn149 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
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)
Dawn
- More powerful engine output
- Stronger listed safety equipment
- Lower fuel efficiency
- Lower published practicality figures
Picanto
- Better fuel efficiency
- Stronger published practicality figures
- Less powerful engine setup
- Fewer listed safety features
Which One's Right for You?
Dawn
- Buyers prioritising the stronger published powertrain figures
- Buyers prioritising the more complete listed safety equipment
Picanto
- Buyers prioritising the lower published fuel or energy use
- Buyers prioritising the stronger published space and capacity figures
Full Specs, Side by Side
Open a category, then swipe sideways to compare every column
Archived cars use verified historical spec records. Rows remain comparable; unavailable historical values are shown plainly rather than estimated.
| Spec | Dawn | Picanto |
|---|---|---|
| Model Introduced Year | 2016 | 2004 |
| Generation | Dawn four-seat convertible; this archive profile uses the MY17 World specification corroborated by a February 2018 South African road test. | Third generation (JA) since 2017; 2021 facelift model current in SA |
| Facelift History | The MY17 configuration is kept separate from the 2015 launch specification, which published different length, torque, acceleration, consumption and CO2 figures. | 2011 second generation; 2017 third generation; 2021 facelift with updated front fascia and infotainment |
| Facelift Launched Since | 2017 | 2021 |
| Facelift Version Ending | 2023 | Current |
| Body Style | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Model Year | 2017 | 2026 |
| Production Status | discontinued | active |
| Segment | Ultra-luxury convertible | Hatchback |
| Vehicle Type | Passenger car | Hatchback |
| Dealer Stock Note | Not confirmed | Flagship grade in the South Africa lineup |
| Color Note | Not confirmed | Clear White, Aurora Black Pearl, Chili Red, Horizon Blue, Perennial Grey, Sporty Blue (two-tone options available on EX+) |
| Tare Mass Kg | Not confirmed | 975 kg |
| Spec | Dawn | Picanto |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 5295 mm | 3595 mm |
| Width | 1947 mm | 1595 mm |
| Height | 1502 mm | 1485 mm |
| Wheelbase | 3112 mm | 2400 mm |
| Ground Clearance (Default) | 149 mm | 155 mm |
| Ground Clearance (With Full Seating Load) | 149 mm | 151 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 82 l | 35 l |
| Boot/Cargo Space | 321 l | 255 l |
| Kerb Weight | 2560 kg | 975 kg |
| Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) | 3040 kg | 1425 kg |
| Payload Capacity | 480 kg | 450 kg |
| Towing Capacity | 0 kg | 0 kg |
| Seating Capacity | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Rows | 2 rows | 2 rows |
| Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Minimum Turning Radius | 6.35 m | 4.8 m |
| Front Headroom | 1018 mm | 970 mm |
| Rear Headroom | 963 mm | 935 mm |
| Front Legroom | 1054 mm | 1040 mm |
| Rear Legroom | 937 mm | 880 mm |
| Spec | Dawn | Picanto |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 6.592-litre twin-turbo V12 | 1.2-litre Naturally Aspirated Petrol |
| Engine Code | N74B66A | G4LA |
| Fuel Type | Petrol | Petrol |
| Hybrid System | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Engine Displacement | 6592 cc | 1248 cc |
| Cylinders | 12 | 4 |
| Cylinder Layout | V | Inline |
| Valves | 48 | 16 |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 | 4 |
| Aspiration | Twin Turbocharged | Naturally Aspirated |
| Fuel System | Direct Injection | Multi-Point Injection |
| Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Bore | 89 mm | 71 mm |
| Stroke | 88.3 mm | 79 mm |
| Maximum Power | 420 kW @ 5250-6000 rpm | 61 kW @ 6000 rpm |
| Maximum Torque | 820 Nm @ 1600-4750 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 | RWD | FWD |
| Transmission | 8-Speed Automatic | 4-Speed Automatic |
| Top Speed | 250 km/h | 163 km/h |
| 0-100 km/h | 5.0 sec | 12.9 sec |
| Quarter Mile | 12.8 sec | Not Officially Disclosed |
| Drive Modes | Low | Eco |
| Launch Control | Not Officially Disclosed | No |
| Rev Limiter | Not Officially Disclosed | Not Officially Disclosed |
| Power-to-Weight Ratio | 164.1 kW/tonne | 62.6 kW/tonne |
| Torque-to-Weight Ratio | 320.3 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 | Dawn | Picanto |
|---|---|---|
| Gearbox | 8-speed automatic / 8HP95 | 4-Speed Automatic |
| Drivetrain Layout | Front-engine, rear-wheel drive | Front Wheel Drive |
| Transfer Case | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Paddle Shifters | No | Not Applicable |
| Final Drive Ratio | 2.813 | 4.058:1 |
| Number of Gears | 8 | 4 |
| Transmission Type | 8-speed automatic / 8HP95 | Automatic |
| Clutch Type | Torque converter | Torque Converter Automatic |
| Gear Shift Type | Steering-column selector for 8-speed automatic | Floor-Mounted Selector |
| Drivetrain | RWD | FWD — Front Wheel Drive |
| 4WD Engagement | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| 4WD Hi Range | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| 4WD Lo Range | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| 4WD Selector | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Automatic Shift Paddles | No | Not Applicable |
| Front Differential Lock | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Gearbox Type | 8-speed automatic / 8HP95 | 4-Speed Automatic |
| Low Range Ratio | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Low Range | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Axle Layout | Two axles | FWD |
| Transmission Speeds | 8 | 4 |
| Engine Position | Not confirmed | Transverse Front-Mounted |
| Steering Turns Lock to Lock | Not confirmed | 2.8 |
| LSD Available | Not confirmed | Not Applicable |
| Differential Lock | Not confirmed | Not Applicable |
| Gear Shift Indicator | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Transfer Case Guard | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Rear Differential Lock | Not confirmed | Not Applicable |
| Differential Type Front | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Differential Type Rear | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Spec | Dawn | Picanto |
|---|---|---|
| Claimed Mileage | 6.99 km/l | 15.9 km/l |
| City Mileage | 4.59 km/l | 13.0 km/l |
| Highway Mileage | 10.10 km/l | 20.0 km/l |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 82 l | 35 l |
| Emission Standard | EU6 | Euro 5 |
| AdBlue Tank Capacity | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Auto Start Stop | No automatic engine stop/start | No |
| Real-world Mileage | 6.99 km/l | 15.9 km/l |
| Charging Port Type | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Charging Type | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Fuel Tank Litres | 82 | 35 |
| Combined Driving Range | 575 km | Not Applicable |
| Electric Consumption | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Range Real World Mixed | 522.93 km | Not Applicable |
| Distance To Empty | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Low Fuel Warning | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Range Real World Highway | Not confirmed | Not Applicable |
| Spec | Dawn | Picanto |
|---|---|---|
| Airbags | 6 | 6 |
| ABS | Standard | Yes |
| Electronic Stability Control | ESP | Yes |
| Traction Control | Standard | Yes |
| Hill Start Assist | Hill-start assist | Yes |
| Child Safety Lock | Not Applicable | Yes |
| ISOFIX Mounts | LATCH child-seat anchor system | Yes |
| Brake Assist | Dynamic Brake Control | Yes |
| Tyre Pressure Monitor | Standard | Yes |
| Engine Immobiliser | Engine immobiliser | Yes |
| Seatbelt Warning All Seats | Driver and front-passenger seat-belt warning sensor | Yes |
| Front Parking Sensors | Front Park Distance Control | No |
| AEB | Available | Yes |
| BA | Dynamic Brake Control | Yes |
| Curtain Airbags | Not Applicable | Yes — Full Length Curtain Airbags |
| Driver Airbag | Standard | Yes |
| EBD | Standard | Yes |
| Engine Immobiliser | Standard | Yes |
| Hill Hold | Hill-start assist | Yes |
| Passenger Airbag | Standard | Yes |
| Seatbelt Pretensioners | Front and rear | Yes — Front Seatbelt Pre-tensioners |
| Seatbelt Reminder | Driver and front-passenger seat-belt warning sensor | Yes |
| Side Airbags | Front side-impact airbags | Yes — Front Side Airbags |
| Stability Control | ESP | Yes |
| TCS | Standard | Yes |
| Knee Airbag | Front active knee protection | No |
| ABS EBD | Standard | Yes |
| Hill Descent Control | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Brake Override System | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Alarm System | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Central Locking | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Side Impact Beams | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Speed Alert System | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Safety Rating | Not confirmed | 3 Stars (Euro NCAP 2017 Assessment) |
| Whiplash Protection | Not confirmed | Yes — Active Head Restraints Front |
| Pedestrian Detection AEB | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Blind Spot Monitoring | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Lane Change Warning | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Rear Cross Traffic Alert | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Fatigue Detection | Not confirmed | Yes |
| ESC With Traction Control | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Driver Front Passenger Airbags | Not confirmed | 6 |
| Driver Passenger Airbags | Not confirmed | 6 |
| Anti Theft Alarm | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Spec | Dawn | Picanto |
|---|---|---|
| Cruise Control | Automatic Cruise Control | Yes |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | Automatic distance-control cruise with stop-and-start traffic response | Yes |
| Lane Departure Warning | Optional | Yes |
| Parking Sensors | Park-distance system | Yes |
| Rear View Camera | Optional rear-view camera with top view | Yes |
| 360 Degree Camera | Optional camera system with rear, top and side views | No |
| Autonomous Emergency Braking | Available | Yes |
| Auto Highbeam | Glare-free high-beam technology | No |
| Auto Wipers | Rain-sensing variable-speed wipers | Yes |
| Rear Parking Sensors | Rear Park Distance Control | Yes |
| Reverse Camera | Optional rear-view camera with top view | Yes |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | Automatic distance-control cruise with stop-and-start traffic response | Yes |
| Park Assist | Front and rear parking sensors | No |
| Around View Monitor | Optional camera system with rear, top and side views | No |
| Forward Collision Warning | Pre-collision safety system | Not Available |
| Blind Spot Monitoring | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Lane Keep Assist | Optional | Yes |
| Rear Cross Traffic Alert | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Driver Fatigue Alert | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Traffic Sign Recognition | Not confirmed | No |
| Auto Lights | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Eco Mode | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Sport Mode | Not confirmed | No |
| EV Mode | Not confirmed | Not Applicable — Petrol Engine |
| Blind Spot Warning | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Emergency Braking | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Pre-Collision System | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Rear View Camera | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Reversing Camera | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Reverse Camera Type | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Surround View Camera | Optional camera system with rear, top and side views | No |
| Parking Distance Sensors | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Parking Sensor | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Front Camera | Not confirmed | No |
| Automatic High Beam | Not confirmed | No |
| Rain Sensor Wipers | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Spec | Dawn | Picanto |
|---|---|---|
| Seat Material | Leather | Leather |
| Heated Seats | Front; standard | Yes — Front Heated Seats |
| Ventilated Seats | Optional front ventilated seats | No |
| Ambient Lighting | Optional – Atmospheric Interior Environment | No |
| Steering Wheel Material | Leather | Leather-Wrapped |
| 60 40 Split Seat | Not Applicable | Yes |
| Driver Seat Adjustment | Electrically adjustable with lumbar adjustment and memory | 6-Way Manual Adjustment |
| Passenger Seat Adjustment | Electrically adjustable with lumbar adjustment | 4-Way Manual Adjustment |
| Seat Trim | Leather | Leather |
| Front Shoulder Room | Not confirmed | 1355 mm |
| Rear Shoulder Room | Not confirmed | 1305 mm |
| Steering Adjustment | Not confirmed | Tilt and Telescopic |
| Steering Type | Not confirmed | Electric Power Assisted (EPAS) |
| Instrument Cluster Type | Not confirmed | Semi-Digital Instrument Cluster |
| Rear USB Ports | Not confirmed | 0 |
| Fabric Seats | Not confirmed | No |
| Leather Seats | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Seat Adjustment | Not confirmed | Manual 6-Way Driver Seat Adjustment |
| Adjustable Driver Seat | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Adjustable Front Seat | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Memory Seats | Not confirmed | No |
| Cooled Seats | Not confirmed | No |
| Driver Lumbar Support | Not confirmed | No |
| Folding Rear Seats | Not confirmed | Yes — 60/40 Split Fold |
| Front Armrest | Not confirmed | No |
| Rear Armrest | Not confirmed | No |
| Cup Holders | Not confirmed | 2 |
| Rear AC Vents | Not confirmed | No |
| Door Map Pockets | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Front Headrest | Not confirmed | Yes — Adjustable |
| Rear Headrest | Not confirmed | Yes — Adjustable |
| Interior Colour Options | Not confirmed | 2 |
| Interior Courtesy Lamps | Not confirmed | 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 | Not confirmed | 1010 |
| Seat Belt Warning | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Leather Accented Seat Trim | Not confirmed | Leather |
| Driver Seat | Not confirmed | Manual 6-Way Driver Seat Adjustment |
| Seat Fold Type | Not confirmed | Yes — 60/40 Split Fold |
| Armrest Front | Not confirmed | No |
| Armrest Rear | Not confirmed | No |
| Rear Seat Centre Armrest | Not confirmed | No |
| Interior Colours | Not confirmed | 2 |
| Interior Trim Colour | Not confirmed | 2 |
| Seat Adjustment Driver Backrest | Not confirmed | No |
| Spec | Dawn | Picanto |
|---|---|---|
| Climate Control | Individual front and rear climate controls | Automatic Climate Control |
| Power Windows | Standard | Yes — All Four Windows |
| Keyless Entry | Comfort Entry keyless access | Yes |
| Push Button Start | Keyless ignition | Yes |
| Sunroof | Not Applicable | No |
| Electric Tailgate | Smart power opening and closing luggage-compartment lid | No |
| Rain Sensing Wipers | Standard | Yes |
| AC Type | Individual front and rear climate controls | Automatic Climate Control |
| Boot Space Seats Folded | Not confirmed | 1010 l |
| Fuel Consumption Combined | Not confirmed | 6.3 L/100km — WLTP Combined Cycle |
| Spare Wheel | No spare wheel; run-flat tyres | Full Size Spare Tyre |
| Tyre Repair Kit | Not confirmed | No — Full Size Spare Provided |
| Adaptive Dampers | Not confirmed | No |
| Hill Start Assist | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Seatbelt Pre Tensioner | Not confirmed | Yes — Front |
| Speed Alert System | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Surround View Monitor | Optional camera system with rear, top and side views | No |
| Digital Speedometer | Not confirmed | Yes — Digital Speedometer Display |
| Driver Display | Not confirmed | Semi-Digital Instrument Cluster with MID |
| Steering Mounted Controls | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Multi Function Steering | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Voice Command | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Voice Command Support | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Wireless Charging | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Seat Type | Not confirmed | Leather |
| Rear Seat Split | Not confirmed | 60/40 Split Fold |
| Front Armrest | Not confirmed | No |
| Headrest Adjustable | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Climate Zones | Not confirmed | Single Zone |
| Push Button Start | Keyless ignition | Yes |
| Engine Start Stop Button | Keyless ignition | Yes |
| Engine Start Button Illumination | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Remote Start | Not confirmed | No |
| Remote Engine Start | Not confirmed | No |
| Panoramic Roof | Not Applicable | No |
| Powered Tailgate | Not confirmed | No |
| Boot Opener | Not confirmed | Yes — Electric Boot Release Button |
| Fuel Lid Opener | Not confirmed | Yes — Remote Fuel Lid Opener |
| Automatic Headlamps | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Auto Dimming Mirror | Not confirmed | No |
| Auto Dimming Irvm | Not confirmed | No |
| Rear Defogger | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Rear Window Defroster | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Electric Mirror Folding | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Electric Folding Mirrors | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Power Mirrors | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Remote Side Mirror | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Driver Seat Height Adjustment | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Tachometer | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Trip Computer | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Speed Limiter | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Follow Me Home Headlamps | Not confirmed | Yes |
| 12V Accessory Socket | Not confirmed | Yes — 12V Front Accessory Socket |
| Front Power Outlet | Not confirmed | Yes — 12V Socket |
| Rear Reading Lamps | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Vanity Mirror | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Door Ajar Warning | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Impact Sensing Door Unlock | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Engine Check Warning | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Service Reminder | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Rear Wing | Not confirmed | No |
| Chrome Grille | Not confirmed | No |
| Chrome Exterior Highlights | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Side Steps | Not confirmed | No |
| Skid Plates | Not confirmed | No |
| Engine Start Stop | Keyless ignition | Yes |
| Heads Up Display | Not confirmed | No |
| Intercooler | Not confirmed | Not Applicable — Naturally Aspirated Engine |
| Performance Data Logger | Not confirmed | No |
| Ride Mode Selection | Not confirmed | No |
| Rev Matching | Not confirmed | No |
| Roof Antenna | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Aero Kit | Not confirmed | No |
| Exhaust Finish | Not confirmed | Standard Single Outlet Chrome Tip |
| Exhaust Type | Not confirmed | Single Exhaust System |
| Glovebox Cooling | Not confirmed | No |
| Headlamp Height Adjust | Not confirmed | Yes — Manual Headlamp Beam Adjustment |
| Headlamp Washer | Not confirmed | No |
| Drag Coefficient | Not confirmed | 0.32 Cd |
| Stabilizer Bar | Not confirmed | Front and Rear Anti-Roll Bars |
| Steering Response | Not confirmed | Electric Power Assisted Steering |
| Tail Lamps | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Glove Box | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Engine Warranty | Not confirmed | 7 Years/150 |
| Trim Level | Not confirmed | flagship |
| Variant Role | Not confirmed | Flagship / premium derivative |
| Accelerator 0 100 | Not confirmed | 12.9 sec |
| Common Rail Injection | Not confirmed | Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPFI) |
| Diff Lock | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Difflock | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Vdc | Not confirmed | Yes |
| TPMS | Standard | Yes |
| Sonar | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Automatic High Beam | Not confirmed | No |
| Steering Column Adjustment | Not confirmed | Tilt and Telescopic |
| Tilt Steering | Not confirmed | Tilt and Telescopic |
| Telescopic Steering | Not confirmed | Tilt and Telescopic |
| Bottle Holders | Not confirmed | 2 |
| Rear Air Conditioning | Not confirmed | No |
| Air Conditioning | Individual front and rear climate controls | Automatic Climate Control |
| Manual Aircon | Not confirmed | Automatic Climate Control |
| Intelligent Keyless Entry | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Remote Central Locking | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Passive Entry Start | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Wireless Charger | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Lift Gate | Not confirmed | No |
| Electric Fold Indicator Mirrors | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Power Socket 12v | Not confirmed | Yes — 12V Front Accessory Socket |
| Sound System | 18 | 6 |
| Roof Rack Compatibility | Not confirmed | No |
| Mirror | Not confirmed | Power Adjustable with Integrated Turn Indicators |
| Rim Size | Front 8.5 x 20; rear 9.5 x 20 | 15 Inches |
| Stabilizer Bar Front | Not confirmed | Standard Anti-Roll Bar |
| Stabilizer Bar Rear | Not confirmed | Standard Anti-Roll Bar |
| Sub Frame | Not confirmed | Monocoque Unibody Steel Platform |
| Vehicle To Grid | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Vehicle To Load | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| One Pedal Driving | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Regenerative Braking Levels | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Rear Electric Motor | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Battery Preconditioning | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Load Bed Cover | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Tailgate Lock | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Sports Bar | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Canopy Fitment | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Bed Extender | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Source Model Column | Not confirmed | picanto |
| Intelligent Battery System | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Front Diff Lock | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Rear Diff Lock | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Loadbox Depth Mm | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Load Bed Light | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Load Bed Steps | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Loadbox Rope Hooks | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Loadbox Tiedown Brackets | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Tailgate Damper | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Tow Bar Type | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Sport Plus Mode | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Unlocking | Comfort Entry keyless access | Yes |
| Walk Away Lock | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Walk Away Auto Door Lock | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Rear LED Combination Taillights | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Front Wiper | Not confirmed | Yes — Standard Rear Wiper and Washer |
| Front Wipers Type | Not confirmed | Yes — Standard Rear Wiper and Washer |
| Rearview Mirror Inside | Not confirmed | No |
| Vanity Mirror Illuminated | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Reading Lights Rear | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Centre Console | Not confirmed | No |
| Side Impact Bars | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Boot Space Seats Folded | Not confirmed | 1010 l |
| Load Bed Length | Not confirmed | Not Applicable |
| Load Bed Width | Not confirmed | Not Applicable |
| Loadbox Length Mm | Not confirmed | Not Applicable |
| Loadbox Width Mm | Not confirmed | Not Applicable |
| Spec | Dawn | Picanto |
|---|---|---|
| Infotainment System | Multimedia interface and navigation with Spirit of Ecstasy Rotary Controller | 8-Inch Touchscreen Infotainment System |
| Bluetooth Connectivity | Standard | Yes |
| Number of Speakers | 18 | 6 |
| Digital Instrument Cluster | Analogue instruments with Power Reserve gauge | Yes — Partial Digital Instrument Cluster |
| USB Ports | Standard | 2 |
| Infotainment Screen | 10.25-inch high-definition display | 8-Inch Touchscreen |
| Touchscreen | 10.25-inch high-definition display | 8-Inch Touchscreen |
| Infotainment Display | Not confirmed | 8-Inch Touchscreen Display |
| Infotainment Screen Size | 10.25-inch high-definition display | 8-Inch Touchscreen |
| Apple CarPlay | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Wireless Apple CarPlay | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Android Auto | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Navigation System | Not confirmed | Yes — Smartphone Navigation via Android Auto/CarPlay |
| Rear Usb | Not confirmed | No |
| Premium Audio | Not confirmed | No |
| FM Radio | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Steering Wheel Audio Controls | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Audio Controls On Steering | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Voice Recognition | Not confirmed | Yes |
| AUX Input | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Wi-Fi Hotspot | Not confirmed | No |
| Head Up Display | Not confirmed | No |
| Multi Information Display | Not confirmed | Semi-Digital Instrument Cluster |
| Display Audio | Not confirmed | 8-Inch Touchscreen Infotainment System |
| Smartphone Connectivity | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Connected Services | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Audio Speakers | 18 | 6 |
| Front Rear USB Charge Ports | Not confirmed | 2 |
| Voice Control | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Radio | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Audio | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Audio System | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Wireless Android Auto | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Spec | Dawn | Picanto |
|---|---|---|
| LED Headlamps | Standard | Yes |
| Daytime Running Lamps | Standard | Yes — LED Daytime Running Lights |
| Roof Rails | Not Applicable | No |
| Exterior Colour Options | Bespoke exterior colour commissioning | 5 |
| Headlights | Standard | Yes |
| Panoramic Sunroof | Not Applicable | No |
| Front Overhang | Not confirmed | 735 mm |
| Rear Overhang | Not confirmed | 460 mm |
| Body Type | Not confirmed | 5-Door Hatchback |
| Led Headlights | Standard | Yes |
| DRL | Standard | Yes — LED Daytime Running Lights |
| Fog Lamps | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Fog Lights | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Front Fog Lights | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Rear Fog Lights | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Led Taillights | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Alloy Wheel Design | Not confirmed | Sport Design |
| Chrome Exterior Finish | Not confirmed | No |
| Body Cladding | Not confirmed | No |
| Rear Spoiler | Not confirmed | Yes — Rear Integrated Spoiler |
| Roof Type | Not confirmed | Standard Fixed Roof |
| Wing Mirror Type | Not confirmed | Power Adjustable with Integrated Turn Indicators |
| Rear Wiper | Not confirmed | Yes — Standard Rear Wiper and Washer |
| Door Handle Finish | Not confirmed | Body-Coloured Door Handles |
| Exterior Colour Options | Not confirmed | 6 |
| Exterior Mirror Electric | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Auto Headlights | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Automatic Headlamps | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Headlamps | Standard | Yes |
| Headlight Type | Standard | Yes |
| Exterior Mirror Folding | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Headlamp Levelling | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Daytime Running Lights | Standard | Yes — LED Daytime Running Lights |
| Front Fog Lamps | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Rear Spoiler | Not confirmed | Yes — Rear Integrated Spoiler |
| Exterior Door Handle Colour | Not confirmed | Body-Coloured Door Handles |
| Load Bed Liner | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Active Exhaust | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Electric Blind Sunroof | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Sunroof Slide | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Sunroof Tilt | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Spec | Dawn | Picanto |
|---|---|---|
| Wading Depth | Not Applicable | 0 mm |
| Terrain Modes | Not Applicable | Not Available |
| 4WD System Type | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Hill Descent Control | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Approach Angle | Not confirmed | 17 deg |
| Departure Angle | Not confirmed | 22 deg |
| Locking Differential | Not confirmed | Not Applicable |
| Underbody Protection | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Ramp Breakover Angle | Not confirmed | 0 deg |
| Ramp-over Angle | Not confirmed | 0 deg |
| Recovery Hooks | Not confirmed | 1 Rear Tow Hook |
| Ground Clearance Min | Not confirmed | 155 mm |
| Ground Clearance Max | Not confirmed | 155 mm |
| Off Road Descent Control | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Terrain Response System | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Crawl Control | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Underbody Camera | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Energy Recovery Display | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Terrain Mode Mud | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Terrain Mode Normal | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Terrain Mode Rock | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Terrain Mode Sand | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Terrain Mode Snow | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Off Road Traction Assist | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Skid Plates Transfer Case | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Skid Plates Fuel Tank | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Front Skid Plate Guard | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Rear Skid Plate Guard | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Approach Angle Deg | Not confirmed | 17 deg |
| Departure Angle Deg | Not confirmed | 22 deg |
| Wading Depth Mm | Not confirmed | 0 mm |
| Breakover Angle | Not confirmed | 0 deg |
| Spec | Dawn | Picanto |
|---|---|---|
| Tyre Size | Front 255/45 R20 101Y; rear 285/40 R20 104Y | 185/60 R15 |
| Front Brake Type | Power-assisted ventilated disc | Ventilated Disc |
| Rear Brake Type | Power-assisted ventilated disc | Disc |
| Spare Wheel Type | No spare wheel; run-flat tyres | Full Size Spare Tyre |
| Wheel Rim Size | Front 8.5 x 20; rear 9.5 x 20 | 15 Inches |
| Handbrake Type | Electromechanical parking brake acting on the rear wheels | Conventional Handbrake |
| Tyre Type | Not confirmed | Tubeless Radial |
| Wheel Type | Not confirmed | Sport Design |
| Wheel Diameter | Front 8.5 x 20; rear 9.5 x 20 | 15 Inches |
| Front Tyre Width | Not confirmed | 185 mm |
| Rear Tyre Width | Not confirmed | 185 mm |
| Brake Type Front | Not confirmed | Ventilated Disc |
| Brake Type Rear | Not confirmed | Disc |
| Front Brake Disc Diameter | Not confirmed | 247 mm |
| Rear Brake Drum Diameter | Not confirmed | 234 mm |
| Parking Brake Type | Not confirmed | Conventional Handbrake |
| Tyre Load Index | Not confirmed | 84 |
| Tyre Speed Rating | Not confirmed | T |
| Spare Tyre | No spare wheel; run-flat tyres | Full Size Spare Tyre |
| Tyre Pressure Monitoring | Standard | Yes |
| Tyre Pressure Display | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Hydraulic Brake Assist | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Autonomous Emergency Brake | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Steering Wheel Audio Controls | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Wheel Material | Not confirmed | Sport Design |
| Wheels | Not confirmed | Sport Design |
| Spare Wheel Size Type | Not confirmed | Full Size Spare |
| Electric Park Brake | Not confirmed | Conventional Handbrake |
| Wheel Size Type | Not confirmed | 15 Inches |
| Fifth Wheel Prep | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Steering Wheel Cruise Controls | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Steering Wheel Phone Controls | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Leather Steering Wheel | Not confirmed | Leather-Wrapped |
| Steering Wheel Trim | Not confirmed | Leather-Wrapped |
| Brakes | Not confirmed | Ventilated Disc |
| Electronic Brakeforce Distribution | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Cornering Brake Control | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Auto Brake Hold | Not confirmed | Conventional Handbrake |
| Spec | Dawn | Picanto |
|---|---|---|
| Front Suspension | Double-wishbone pneumatic suspension with newly designed self-levelling air springs, active roll control and continuous electronic damping | MacPherson Strut with Coil Spring |
| Rear Suspension | Multi-link pneumatic suspension with newly designed self-levelling air springs, active roll control and continuous electronic damping | Coupled Torsion Beam Axle with Coil Spring |
| Front Track Width | Not confirmed | 1415 mm |
| Rear Track Width | Not confirmed | 1420 mm |
| Chassis Type | Not confirmed | Monocoque Unibody Steel Platform |
| Power Steering | Not confirmed | Electric Power Assisted (EPAS) |
| Steering Column | Not confirmed | Tilt and Telescopic Adjustable |
| Front Spring Type | Not confirmed | Coil Spring |
| Rear Spring Type | Not confirmed | Coil Spring |
| Front Anti-Roll Bar | Not confirmed | Standard Anti-Roll Bar |
| Rear Anti-Roll Bar | Not confirmed | Standard Anti-Roll Bar |
| Shock Absorber Type | Not confirmed | Telescopic Gas Dampers |
| Front Suspension Type | Double-wishbone pneumatic suspension with newly designed self-levelling air springs, active roll control and continuous electronic damping | MacPherson Strut with Coil Spring |
| Suspension | Not confirmed | MacPherson Strut with Coil Spring |
| Rear Suspension Type | Multi-link pneumatic suspension with newly designed self-levelling air springs, active roll control and continuous electronic damping | Coupled Torsion Beam Axle with Coil Spring |
| Rear Axle Type | Not confirmed | Coupled Torsion Beam Axle with Coil Spring |
| Shock Absorbers | Not confirmed | Telescopic Gas Dampers |
| Chassis Material | Not confirmed | Monocoque Unibody Steel Platform |
| MagneRide Damping | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Spec | Dawn | Picanto |
|---|---|---|
| CO2 Emissions | 326 g/km | 145 g/km |
| Fuel Octane Requirement | Designed for 95 RON; minimum 91 RON | 93 RON Unleaded |
| Variable Valve Timing | Not confirmed | CVVT on Intake Camshaft |
| Start Stop System | Not confirmed | No |
| Noise Level | Not confirmed | 68 dB |
| Hybrid System Type | Not confirmed | Not Applicable |
| Particulate Filter | Not confirmed | GPF Fitted |
| Euro Emission Standard | Not confirmed | Euro 5 |
| Green NCAP Rating | Not confirmed | Not Independently NCAP Green Rated |
| Idle CO2 Output | Not confirmed | Within Euro 5 Emission Limits |
| Fuel Evaporation Control | Not confirmed | Evaporative Emission Control (EVAP) |
| CO2 Emissions G Km | Not confirmed | 145 |
| Spec | Dawn | Picanto |
|---|---|---|
| Service Plan | 4 years, unlimited kilometres | 3 Years/45 |
| Engine Oil Capacity | Not confirmed | 3.8 l |
| Service Interval | Not confirmed | 15,000 km or 12 Months — Whichever First |
| Approx Service Cost | Not confirmed | Approx R2,500–R3,200 per Service |
| Battery Warranty | Not confirmed | 12 Months KIA Battery Warranty |
| Maintenance Plan | Not confirmed | Included — 3 Years/45 |
| Engine Oil Change Interval | Not confirmed | 10,000 km or 6 Months |
| First Service At | Not confirmed | 1,000 km Inspection and Safety Check |
| Service Plan Duration | 4 years, unlimited kilometres | 3 Years/45 |
| Service Plan Distance | 4 years, unlimited kilometres | 3 Years/45 |
| Anti-Rust Treatment | Not confirmed | Underbody Anti-Rust Protection |
| Alternator | Not confirmed | 80A Alternator |
| Service Intervals | Not confirmed | 15,000 km or 12 Months — Whichever First |
| Accessory Battery Type | Not confirmed | 12V 45Ah Lead-Acid Battery |
| Spec | Dawn | Picanto |
|---|---|---|
| Ownership Role | Historical South African Dawn derivative launched locally in March 2016 and documented locally in 2018; the March 2022 global Dawn order-book closure is an outer bound, not proof of the exact South African withdrawal year, while production ended in 2023. | Flagship |
| Pricing Role | Historical price on application | Current listed price |
| Price Zar | Not confirmed | 325995 ZAR |
| Starting Price | Not confirmed | 325995 |
| Starting Price Zar | Not confirmed | 325995 |
| Spec | Dawn | Picanto |
|---|---|---|
| Warranty | 4 years, unlimited kilometres | 7 Years/150 |
| Warranty Years | 4 years, unlimited kilometres | 7 Years/150 |
| Warranty Kilometers | 4 years, unlimited kilometres | 7 Years/150 |
| Roadside Assistance | Not confirmed | 5 Years Roadside Assistance |
| Anti-Corrosion Warranty | Not confirmed | 5 Years |
| Basic Warranty | 4 years, unlimited kilometres | 7 Years/150 |
| Roadside Assistance | Not confirmed | 5 Years Roadside Assistance |
| Warranty Roadside Assistance | Not confirmed | 5 Years Roadside Assistance |
| Spec | Dawn | Picanto |
|---|---|---|
| Real-world City Mileage Min | Not confirmed | 7.2 l/100km |
| Real-world City Mileage Max | Not confirmed | 8.8 l/100km |
| Real-world Highway Mileage Min | Not confirmed | 4.5 l/100km |
| Real-world Highway Mileage Max | Not confirmed | 5.5 l/100km |
| Owner Review Count | Not confirmed | 0 |
In depth: how these cars differ
This Dawn 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: Dawn 97 vs Picanto 28.
Efficiency index: Dawn 31 vs Picanto 61.
Safety-equipment index: Dawn 90 vs Picanto 89.
Practicality index: Dawn 52 vs Picanto 53.
Ownership-cover index: Dawn not separately scored 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
Dawn and Picanto image comparison
Open an image for its full canonical file or visit the model page for the complete vehicle record.
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.
Dawn leads by 10 points
Dawn has a modest catalogue-index lead, while Picanto remains close.
Dawn
Picanto
Moderate difference in the source-backed catalogue index.
Why this score View full breakdown
Dawn
Picanto
What the evidence means
In Hagalu's specification evidence index, Dawn leads. However, Picanto may suit buyers prioritising different confirmed fields. Ultimately, the right choice depends on your driving priorities in South Africa.
Related comparisons
Continue with closely related South Africa models and comparable body styles.
Dawn 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.