A proper head-to-head in South Africa — we cover price, performance, petrol economy, safety and what it'll actually cost you to own each one long term.
The specs that matter most — highlighted where one car leads.
| Spec | DOLPHIN SURF | Picanto |
|---|---|---|
| Maximum Power | 55 kW | 61 kW @ 6000 rpm |
| Maximum Torque | 135 Nm | 121 Nm @ 4000 rpm |
| Engine Size | Not Applicable | 1248 cc |
| Combined Fuel Economy | Not Applicable | 15.9 km/l |
| Ground Clearance | 155 mm | 155 mm |
| Boot / Load Bay | 230 l | 255 l |
| Airbags | 6 | 6 |
| Kerb Weight | 1280 kg | 975 kg |
| Seating Capacity | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Warranty | 3 years/100000 km complete vehicle; 8 years/200000 km power battery; 5 years/100000 km drive unit | 7 Years/150 |
= leads in this spec
DOLPHIN SURF and Picanto are close on the comparable published fields, so buyer priorities should decide.
| Spec | DOLPHIN SURF | Picanto |
|---|---|---|
| Model Introduced Year | 2025 | 2004 |
| Generation | First South African DOLPHIN SURF generation | Third generation (JA) since 2017; 2021 facelift model current in SA |
| Facelift History | No separately marketed South African facelift announced as at August 2026 | 2011 second generation; 2017 third generation; 2021 facelift with updated front fascia and infotainment |
| Facelift Launched Since | Original current-generation version | 2021 |
| Facelift Version Ending | Current | Current |
| Body Style | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Model Year | 2026 | 2026 |
| Production Status | Active | published |
| Segment | City Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Vehicle Type | Passenger vehicle | Hatchback |
| Color Note | - | Clear White, Aurora Black Pearl, Chili Red, Horizon Blue, Perennial Grey, Sporty Blue (two-tone options available on EX+) |
| Dealer Stock Note | - | Flagship grade in the South Africa lineup |
| Tare Mass Kg | - | 975 kg |
| Spec | DOLPHIN SURF | Picanto |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 3925 mm | 3595 mm |
| Width | 1720 mm | 1595 mm |
| Height | 1590 mm | 1485 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2500 mm | 2400 mm |
| Ground Clearance (Default) | 155 mm | 155 mm |
| Ground Clearance (With Full Seating Load) | 120 mm | - |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 0 l | 35 l |
| Boot/Cargo Space | 230 l | 255 l |
| Kerb Weight | 1280 kg | 975 kg |
| Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) | 1690 kg | 1425 kg |
| Payload Capacity | 410 kg | 450 kg |
| Towing Capacity | 0 kg | - |
| Seating Capacity | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Rows | 2 rows | - |
| Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Minimum Turning Radius | 4.95 m | 4.8 m |
| Front Headroom | 980 mm | 970 mm |
| Rear Headroom | 920 mm | 935 mm |
| Front Legroom | 1060 mm | 1040 mm |
| Rear Legroom | 690 mm | 880 mm |
| Spec | DOLPHIN SURF | Picanto |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | Single-motor battery-electric powertrain | 1.2-litre Naturally Aspirated Petrol |
| Engine Code | Not Applicable | G4LA |
| Fuel Type | Electric | Petrol |
| Hybrid System | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Engine Displacement | Not Applicable | 1248 cc |
| Cylinders | Not Applicable | 4 |
| Cylinder Layout | Not Applicable | Inline |
| Valves | Not Applicable | 16 |
| Valves per Cylinder | Not Applicable | 4 |
| Aspiration | Not Applicable | Naturally Aspirated |
| Fuel System | Not Applicable | Multi-Point Injection |
| Compression Ratio | Not Applicable | 11.0:1 |
| Bore | Not Applicable | 71 mm |
| Stroke | Not Applicable | 79 mm |
| Maximum Power | 55 kW | 61 kW @ 6000 rpm |
| Maximum Torque | 135 Nm | 121 Nm @ 4000 rpm |
| Combined Power | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Combined Torque | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Motor Type | Permanent Magnet Synchronous | Not Applicable |
| Number of Motors | 1 | Not Applicable |
| Motor Location | Front | Not Applicable |
| Drive Type | FWD | FWD |
| Transmission | Single-Speed Reduction Gear | 4-Speed Automatic |
| Top Speed | 130 km/h | 163 km/h |
| 0-100 km/h | 15.5 sec | 12.9 sec |
| Quarter Mile | Not Officially Disclosed | Not Officially Disclosed |
| Drive Modes | Eco, Normal, Sport, Snow | Eco |
| Launch Control | Not Officially Disclosed | No |
| Rev Limiter | Not Applicable | Not Officially Disclosed |
| Power-to-Weight Ratio | 43.0 kW/tonne | 62.6 kW/tonne |
| Torque-to-Weight Ratio | 105.5 Nm/tonne | 124.1 Nm/tonne |
| Battery Capacity | 38.88 kWh | Not Applicable |
| Usable Battery Capacity | Not Officially Disclosed | Not Applicable |
| Battery Type | LFP | Not Applicable |
| Battery Voltage | Not Officially Disclosed | Not Applicable |
| Electric Range | 295 km (WLTP) | Not Applicable |
| AC Charging Power | 6.6 kW | Not Applicable |
| DC Charging Power | 40 kW | Not Applicable |
| AC Charging Time | Not Officially Disclosed | Not Applicable |
| DC Charging Time | Not Officially Disclosed | Not Applicable |
| Regenerative Braking | Yes | Not Applicable |
| Spec | DOLPHIN SURF | Picanto |
|---|---|---|
| Gearbox | Single-Speed Reduction Gear | 4-Speed Automatic |
| Drivetrain Layout | Front motor, front-wheel drive | Front Wheel Drive |
| LSD Available | Not Available | Not Applicable |
| Transfer Case | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Differential Lock | Not Available | Not Applicable |
| Paddle Shifters | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Final Drive Ratio | 10.45 | 4.058:1 |
| Number of Gears | 1 | 4 |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Clutch Type | Not Applicable | Torque Converter Automatic |
| Gear Shift Indicator | Standard | Yes |
| Gear Shift Type | Instrument switch group gear selector | Floor-Mounted Selector |
| Drivetrain | FWD | 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 | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Front Differential Lock | Not Available | Not Applicable |
| Gearbox Type | Single-speed reduction gear | 4-Speed Automatic |
| Low Range Ratio | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Low Range | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Axle Layout | 4x2 | FWD |
| Rear Differential Lock | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Transmission Speeds | 1 | 4 |
| Engine Position | - | Transverse Front-Mounted |
| Steering Turns Lock to Lock | - | 2.8 |
| Differential Type Front | - | Not Available |
| Differential Type Rear | - | Not Available |
| Transfer Case Guard | - | Not Available |
| Spec | DOLPHIN SURF | Picanto |
|---|---|---|
| Claimed Mileage | Not Applicable | 15.9 km/l |
| City Mileage | Not Applicable | 13.0 km/l |
| Highway Mileage | Not Applicable | 20.0 km/l |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | Not Applicable | 35 l |
| Emission Standard | Not Applicable | Euro 5 |
| AdBlue Tank Capacity | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Auto Start Stop | Not Applicable | No |
| Real-world Mileage | Not Applicable | 15.9 km/l |
| Charging Port Type | Type 2 AC; CCS2 DC | Not Applicable |
| Charging Type | AC and DC | Not Applicable |
| Fuel Tank Litres | Not Applicable | 35 |
| Combined Driving Range | 295 km (WLTP) | Not Applicable |
| Electric Consumption | 13.4 kWh/100 km (measured) | Not Applicable |
| Range Real World Highway | 245 km | Not Applicable |
| Range Real World Mixed | 288 km | Not Applicable |
| Distance To Empty | - | Yes |
| Low Fuel Warning | - | Yes |
| Spec | DOLPHIN SURF | Picanto |
|---|---|---|
| Airbags | 6 | 6 |
| ABS | Standard | Yes |
| Electronic Stability Control | Standard | Yes |
| Traction Control | Standard | Yes |
| Hill Descent Control | Not Applicable | 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 |
| Seatbelt Warning All Seats | Standard | Yes |
| Front Parking Sensors | Not Available | No |
| AEB | Not Available | Yes |
| BA | Standard | Yes |
| Brake Override System | Standard | Yes |
| Curtain Airbags | Standard | Yes — Full Length Curtain Airbags |
| Driver Airbag | Standard | Yes |
| EBD | Standard | Yes |
| Engine Immobiliser | Not Applicable | Yes |
| Hill Hold | Standard | Yes |
| Passenger Airbag | Standard | Yes |
| Rear Cross Traffic Alert | Not Available | Yes |
| Seatbelt Pretensioners | Standard | Yes — Front Seatbelt Pre-tensioners |
| Seatbelt Reminder | Standard | Yes |
| Side Airbags | Standard | Yes — Front Side Airbags |
| Stability Control | Standard | Yes |
| TCS | Standard | Yes |
| Knee Airbag | Not Available | No |
| ABS EBD | Standard | Yes |
| Alarm System | - | Yes |
| Central Locking | - | Yes |
| Side Impact Beams | - | Yes |
| Speed Alert System | - | Yes |
| Pedestrian Detection AEB | - | Yes |
| Safety Rating | - | 3 Stars (Euro NCAP 2017 Assessment) |
| Whiplash Protection | - | Yes — Active Head Restraints Front |
| Lane Change Warning | - | Yes |
| Fatigue Detection | - | Yes |
| Blind Spot Monitoring | - | Yes |
| Anti Theft Alarm | - | Yes |
| Driver Front Passenger Airbags | - | 6 |
| Driver Passenger Airbags | - | 6 |
| ESC With Traction Control | - | Yes |
| Spec | DOLPHIN SURF | Picanto |
|---|---|---|
| Cruise Control | Standard | Yes |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | Not Available | Yes |
| Lane Keep Assist | Not Available | Yes |
| Lane Departure Warning | Not Available | Yes |
| Blind Spot Monitoring | Not Available | Yes |
| Rear Cross Traffic Alert | Not Available | Yes |
| Parking Sensors | Standard | Yes |
| Rear View Camera | Standard | Yes |
| 360 Degree Camera | Not Available | No |
| Autonomous Emergency Braking | Not Available | Yes |
| Driver Fatigue Alert | Not Available | Yes |
| Traffic Sign Recognition | Not Available | No |
| Auto Highbeam | Not Available | No |
| Auto Wipers | Standard | Yes |
| Rear Parking Sensors | Standard | Yes |
| Reverse Camera | Standard | Yes |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | Not Available | Yes |
| Park Assist | Standard | No |
| Around View Monitor | Not Available | No |
| Blind Spot Warning | Not Available | Yes |
| Forward Collision Warning | Not Available | Not Available |
| Auto Lights | - | Yes |
| Eco Mode | - | Yes |
| EV Mode | - | Not Applicable — Petrol Engine |
| Sport Mode | - | No |
| Emergency Braking | - | Yes |
| Front Camera | - | No |
| Parking Distance Sensors | - | Yes |
| Parking Sensor | - | Yes |
| Automatic High Beam | - | No |
| Pre-Collision System | - | Yes |
| Rain Sensor Wipers | - | Yes |
| Rear View Camera | - | Yes |
| Reverse Camera Type | - | Yes |
| Reversing Camera | - | Yes |
| Surround View Camera | Not Available | No |
| Spec | DOLPHIN SURF | Picanto |
|---|---|---|
| Seat Material | Synthetic leather | Leather |
| Heated Seats | Standard | Yes — Front Heated Seats |
| Ventilated Seats | Not Available | No |
| Ambient Lighting | Not Available | No |
| Steering Wheel Material | Imitation leather | Leather-Wrapped |
| 60 40 Split Seat | Not Available | Yes |
| Driver Seat Adjustment | 6-way electric | 6-Way Manual Adjustment |
| Passenger Seat Adjustment | 4-way manual | 4-Way Manual Adjustment |
| Seat Trim | Synthetic leather | Leather |
| Seat Adjustment | - | Manual 6-Way Driver Seat Adjustment |
| Steering Type | - | Electric Power Assisted (EPAS) |
| Steering Adjustment | - | Tilt and Telescopic |
| Folding Rear Seats | - | Yes — 60/40 Split Fold |
| Front Armrest | - | No |
| Rear Armrest | - | No |
| Front Shoulder Room | - | 1355 mm |
| Rear Shoulder Room | - | 1305 mm |
| Cup Holders | - | 2 |
| Rear AC Vents | - | No |
| Rear USB Ports | - | 0 |
| Instrument Cluster Type | - | Semi-Digital Instrument Cluster |
| Interior Colour Options | - | 2 |
| Driver Lumbar Support | - | No |
| Door Map Pockets | - | Yes |
| Adjustable Driver Seat | - | Yes |
| Adjustable Front Seat | - | Yes |
| Cooled Seats | - | No |
| Fabric Seats | - | No |
| Front Headrest | - | Yes — Adjustable |
| Leather Seats | - | Yes |
| Memory Seats | - | No |
| Rear Headrest | - | Yes — Adjustable |
| Armrest Front | - | No |
| Armrest Rear | - | No |
| Boot Space Seats Down | - | 1010 |
| Driver Seat | - | Manual 6-Way Driver Seat Adjustment |
| 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 |
| Interior Trim Colour | - | 2 |
| Leather Accented Seat Trim | - | Leather |
| Interior Colours | - | 2 |
| Rear Seat Centre Armrest | - | No |
| Seat Adjustment Driver Backrest | - | No |
| Seat Belt Warning | - | Yes |
| Seat Fold Type | - | Yes — 60/40 Split Fold |
| Spec | DOLPHIN SURF | Picanto |
|---|---|---|
| Climate Control | Electric air conditioner | Automatic Climate Control |
| Power Windows | Standard | Yes — All Four Windows |
| Keyless Entry | Standard | Yes |
| Push Button Start | Standard | Yes |
| Wireless Charging | Standard | Yes |
| Sunroof | Not Available | No |
| Electric Tailgate | Not Available | No |
| Rain Sensing Wipers | Standard | Yes |
| AC Type | Electric air conditioner | Automatic Climate Control |
| Load Bed Length | - | Not Applicable |
| Load Bed Width | - | Not Applicable |
| Automatic Headlamps | - | Yes |
| Auto Dimming Mirror | - | No |
| Boot Space Seats Folded | - | 1010 l |
| Boot Space Seats Folded | - | 1010 l |
| Rear Window Defroster | - | Yes |
| Electric Mirror Folding | - | Yes |
| Driver Seat Height Adjustment | - | Yes |
| Follow Me Home Headlamps | - | Yes |
| 12V Accessory Socket | - | Yes — 12V Front Accessory Socket |
| Speed Limiter | - | Yes |
| Adaptive Dampers | - | No |
| Aero Kit | - | No |
| Auto Dimming Irvm | - | No |
| Boot Opener | - | Yes — Electric Boot Release Button |
| Chrome Exterior Highlights | - | Yes |
| Chrome Grille | - | No |
| Climate Zones | - | Single Zone |
| Door Ajar Warning | - | Yes |
| Drag Coefficient | - | 0.32 Cd |
| Driver Display | - | Semi-Digital Instrument Cluster with MID |
| Electric Folding Mirrors | - | Yes |
| Engine Check Warning | - | Yes |
| Engine Start Button Illumination | - | Yes |
| Engine Start Stop | Standard | Yes |
| Engine Start Stop Button | Standard | Yes |
| Engine Warranty | - | 7 Years/150 |
| Exhaust Finish | - | Standard Single Outlet Chrome Tip |
| Exhaust Type | - | Single Exhaust System |
| Front Armrest | - | No |
| Front Power Outlet | - | Yes — 12V Socket |
| Fuel Consumption Combined | - | 6.3 L/100km — WLTP Combined Cycle |
| Fuel Lid Opener | - | Yes — Remote Fuel Lid Opener |
| Glovebox Cooling | - | No |
| Headlamp Height Adjust | - | Yes — Manual Headlamp Beam Adjustment |
| Headlamp Washer | - | No |
| Headrest Adjustable | - | Yes |
| Heads Up Display | - | No |
| Hill Start Assist | - | Yes |
| Impact Sensing Door Unlock | - | Yes |
| Intercooler | - | Not Applicable — Naturally Aspirated Engine |
| Multi Function Steering | - | Yes |
| Panoramic Roof | Not Available | No |
| Performance Data Logger | - | No |
| Power Mirrors | - | Yes |
| Push Button Start | Standard | Yes |
| Rear Defogger | - | Yes |
| Rear Reading Lamps | - | Yes |
| Rear Seat Split | - | 60/40 Split Fold |
| Rear Wing | - | No |
| Remote Engine Start | - | No |
| Rev Matching | - | No |
| Ride Mode Selection | - | No |
| Roof Antenna | - | Yes |
| Seat Type | - | Leather |
| Seatbelt Pre Tensioner | - | Yes — Front |
| Service Reminder | - | Yes |
| Side Steps | - | No |
| Skid Plates | - | No |
| Spare Wheel | Tyre repair kit | Full Size Spare Tyre |
| Speed Alert System | - | Yes |
| Stabilizer Bar | - | Front and Rear Anti-Roll Bars |
| Steering Mounted Controls | - | Yes |
| Steering Response | - | Electric Power Assisted Steering |
| Tachometer | - | Yes |
| Tail Lamps | - | Yes |
| Telescopic Steering | - | Tilt and Telescopic |
| Tilt Steering | - | Tilt and Telescopic |
| Trip Computer | - | Yes |
| Tyre Repair Kit | - | No — Full Size Spare Provided |
| Vanity Mirror | - | Yes |
| Voice Command | - | Yes |
| Voice Command Support | - | Yes |
| Accelerator 0 100 | - | 12.9 sec |
| Air Conditioning | Electric air conditioner | Automatic Climate Control |
| Automatic High Beam | - | No |
| Battery Preconditioning | - | Not Available |
| Bed Extender | - | Not Available |
| Bottle Holders | - | 2 |
| Canopy Fitment | - | Not Available |
| Centre Console | - | No |
| Common Rail Injection | - | Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPFI) |
| Diff Lock | - | Not Available |
| Difflock | - | Not Available |
| Digital Speedometer | - | Yes — Digital Speedometer Display |
| Electric Fold Indicator Mirrors | - | Yes |
| Front Diff Lock | - | Not Available |
| Front Wiper | - | Yes — Standard Rear Wiper and Washer |
| Front Wipers Type | - | Yes — Standard Rear Wiper and Washer |
| Glove Box | - | Yes |
| Intelligent Battery System | - | Not Available |
| Intelligent Keyless Entry | - | Yes |
| Lift Gate | - | No |
| Load Bed Cover | - | Not Available |
| Load Bed Light | - | Not Available |
| Load Bed Steps | - | Not Available |
| Loadbox Depth Mm | - | Not Available |
| Loadbox Length Mm | - | Not Applicable |
| Loadbox Rope Hooks | - | Not Available |
| Loadbox Tiedown Brackets | - | Not Available |
| Loadbox Width Mm | - | Not Applicable |
| Manual Aircon | - | Automatic Climate Control |
| Mirror | - | Power Adjustable with Integrated Turn Indicators |
| One Pedal Driving | - | Not Available |
| Passive Entry Start | - | Yes |
| Power Socket 12v | - | Yes — 12V Front Accessory Socket |
| Powered Tailgate | - | No |
| Reading Lights Rear | - | Yes |
| Rear Air Conditioning | - | No |
| Rear Diff Lock | - | Not Available |
| Rear Electric Motor | - | Not Available |
| Rear LED Combination Taillights | - | Yes |
| Rearview Mirror Inside | - | No |
| Regenerative Braking Levels | - | Not Available |
| Remote Central Locking | - | Yes |
| Remote Side Mirror | - | Yes |
| Remote Start | - | No |
| Rim Size | 16 | 15 Inches |
| Roof Rack Compatibility | - | No |
| Side Impact Bars | - | Yes |
| Sonar | - | Yes |
| Sound System | 4 | 6 |
| Source Model Column | - | picanto |
| Sport Plus Mode | - | Not Available |
| Sports Bar | - | Not Available |
| Stabilizer Bar Front | - | Standard Anti-Roll Bar |
| Stabilizer Bar Rear | - | Standard Anti-Roll Bar |
| Steering Column Adjustment | - | Tilt and Telescopic |
| Sub Frame | - | Monocoque Unibody Steel Platform |
| Surround View Monitor | Not Available | No |
| Tailgate Damper | - | Not Available |
| Tailgate Lock | - | Not Available |
| Tow Bar Type | - | Not Available |
| TPMS | Standard | Yes |
| Trim Level | - | flagship |
| Unlocking | Standard | Yes |
| Vanity Mirror Illuminated | - | Yes |
| Variant Role | - | Flagship / premium derivative |
| Vdc | - | Yes |
| Vehicle To Grid | - | Not Available |
| Vehicle To Load | - | Not Available |
| Walk Away Auto Door Lock | - | Yes |
| Walk Away Lock | - | Yes |
| Wireless Charger | Standard | Yes |
| Spec | DOLPHIN SURF | Picanto |
|---|---|---|
| Infotainment System | 10.1-inch touchscreen | 8-Inch Touchscreen Infotainment System |
| Apple CarPlay | Standard | Yes |
| Android Auto | Standard | Yes |
| Bluetooth Connectivity | Standard | Yes |
| Number of Speakers | 4 | 6 |
| Digital Instrument Cluster | 7-inch digital instrument display | Yes — Partial Digital Instrument Cluster |
| USB Ports | Front and rear USB-A/USB-C ports | 2 |
| Infotainment Screen | 10.1 | 8-Inch Touchscreen |
| Touchscreen | 10.1 | 8-Inch Touchscreen |
| Navigation System | - | Yes — Smartphone Navigation via Android Auto/CarPlay |
| Wireless Apple CarPlay | Standard | Yes |
| Wireless Android Auto | Standard | Yes |
| FM Radio | - | Yes |
| Steering Wheel Audio Controls | - | Yes |
| Voice Recognition | - | Yes |
| AUX Input | - | Yes |
| Infotainment Screen Size | 10.1 | 8-Inch Touchscreen |
| Wi-Fi Hotspot | - | No |
| Audio Controls On Steering | - | Yes |
| Infotainment Display | - | 8-Inch Touchscreen Display |
| Rear Usb | - | No |
| Premium Audio | - | No |
| Audio | - | Yes |
| Audio Speakers | 4 | 6 |
| Audio System | - | Yes |
| Display Audio | - | 8-Inch Touchscreen Infotainment System |
| Front Rear USB Charge Ports | - | 2 |
| Head Up Display | - | No |
| Multi Information Display | - | Semi-Digital Instrument Cluster |
| Connected Services | - | Yes |
| Voice Control | - | Yes |
| Smartphone Connectivity | - | Yes |
| Radio | - | Yes |
| Spec | DOLPHIN SURF | Picanto |
|---|---|---|
| LED Headlamps | Standard | Yes |
| Daytime Running Lamps | LED | Yes — LED Daytime Running Lights |
| Fog Lamps | Rear fog lamp | Yes |
| Roof Rails | Not Applicable | No |
| Exterior Colour Options | Lime Green, Cream White, Cosmos Black, Ice Blue | 5 |
| Headlights | Standard | Yes |
| Panoramic Sunroof | Not Available | No |
| Alloy Wheel Design | - | Sport Design |
| 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 |
| Body Type | - | 5-Door Hatchback |
| DRL | LED | Yes — LED Daytime Running Lights |
| Fog Lights | - | Yes |
| Front Fog Lights | - | Yes |
| Led Headlights | Standard | Yes |
| Led Taillights | - | Yes |
| Rear Fog Lights | - | Yes |
| Front Overhang | - | 735 mm |
| Rear Overhang | - | 460 mm |
| Auto Headlights | - | Yes |
| Automatic Headlamps | - | Yes |
| Daytime Running Lights | LED | Yes — LED Daytime Running Lights |
| Electric Blind Sunroof | - | Not Available |
| Exterior Colour Options | - | 6 |
| Exterior Door Handle Colour | - | Body-Coloured Door Handles |
| Exterior Mirror Electric | - | Yes |
| Exterior Mirror Folding | - | Yes |
| Front Fog Lamps | Rear fog lamp | Yes |
| Headlamp Levelling | - | Yes |
| Headlamps | Standard | Yes |
| Headlight Type | Standard | Yes |
| Load Bed Liner | - | Not Available |
| Active Exhaust | - | Not Available |
| Rear Spoiler | - | Yes — Rear Integrated Spoiler |
| Sunroof Slide | - | Not Available |
| Sunroof Tilt | - | Not Available |
| Spec | DOLPHIN SURF | Picanto |
|---|---|---|
| Approach Angle | 15 deg | 17 deg |
| Departure Angle | 25 deg | 22 deg |
| Wading Depth | Not Applicable | 0 mm |
| Terrain Modes | Not Applicable | Not Available |
| Locking Differential | Not Available | Not Applicable |
| 4WD System Type | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Breakover Angle | Not Applicable | 0 deg |
| Underbody Protection | - | Not Available |
| Ramp Breakover Angle | - | 0 deg |
| Recovery Hooks | - | 1 Rear Tow Hook |
| Hill Descent Control | Not Applicable | Not Available |
| Ramp-over Angle | - | 0 deg |
| Approach Angle Deg | - | 17 deg |
| Departure Angle Deg | - | 22 deg |
| Energy Recovery Display | - | Not Available |
| Front Skid Plate Guard | - | Not Available |
| Ground Clearance Max | - | 155 mm |
| Ground Clearance Min | - | 155 mm |
| Off Road Descent Control | - | Not Available |
| Off Road Traction Assist | - | Not Available |
| Crawl Control | - | Not Available |
| Rear Skid Plate Guard | - | Not Available |
| Skid Plates Fuel Tank | - | Not Available |
| Skid Plates Transfer Case | - | 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 |
| Terrain Response System | - | Not Available |
| Underbody Camera | - | Not Available |
| Wading Depth Mm | - | 0 mm |
| Spec | DOLPHIN SURF | Picanto |
|---|---|---|
| Tyre Size | 185/55 R16 | 185/60 R15 |
| Front Brake Type | Ventilated disc | Ventilated Disc |
| Rear Brake Type | Disc | Disc |
| Spare Wheel Type | Tyre repair kit | Full Size Spare Tyre |
| Wheel Rim Size | 16 | 15 Inches |
| Handbrake Type | Electronic parking brake | Conventional Handbrake |
| Wheel Type | - | Sport Design |
| 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 |
| Brake Type Front | - | Ventilated Disc |
| Brake Type Rear | - | Disc |
| Spare Tyre | Tyre repair kit | Full Size Spare Tyre |
| Tyre Type | - | Tubeless Radial |
| Front Tyre Width | - | 185 mm |
| Rear Tyre Width | - | 185 mm |
| Wheel Diameter | 16 | 15 Inches |
| Auto Brake Hold | - | Conventional Handbrake |
| Autonomous Emergency Brake | - | Yes |
| Brakes | - | Ventilated Disc |
| Cornering Brake Control | - | Yes |
| Electric Park Brake | - | Conventional Handbrake |
| Electronic Brakeforce Distribution | - | Yes |
| Fifth Wheel Prep | - | Not Available |
| Hydraulic Brake Assist | - | Yes |
| Leather Steering Wheel | - | Leather-Wrapped |
| Spare Wheel Size Type | - | Full Size Spare |
| Steering Wheel Audio Controls | - | Yes |
| Steering Wheel Cruise Controls | - | Yes |
| Steering Wheel Phone Controls | - | Yes |
| Steering Wheel Trim | - | Leather-Wrapped |
| Tyre Pressure Display | - | Yes |
| Tyre Pressure Monitoring | Standard | Yes |
| Wheel Material | - | Sport Design |
| Wheel Size Type | - | 15 Inches |
| Wheels | - | Sport Design |
| Spec | DOLPHIN SURF | Picanto |
|---|---|---|
| Front Suspension | MacPherson strut | MacPherson Strut with Coil Spring |
| Rear Suspension | Torsion beam | Coupled Torsion Beam Axle with Coil Spring |
| Front Track Width | - | 1415 mm |
| Rear Track Width | - | 1420 mm |
| Chassis Type | - | Monocoque Unibody Steel Platform |
| 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 |
| Chassis Material | - | Monocoque Unibody Steel Platform |
| Front Suspension Type | MacPherson strut | MacPherson Strut with Coil Spring |
| MagneRide Damping | - | Not Available |
| Rear Axle Type | - | Coupled Torsion Beam Axle with Coil Spring |
| Rear Suspension Type | Torsion beam | Coupled Torsion Beam Axle with Coil Spring |
| Shock Absorbers | - | Telescopic Gas Dampers |
| Suspension | - | MacPherson Strut with Coil Spring |
| Spec | DOLPHIN SURF | Picanto |
|---|---|---|
| CO2 Emissions | 0 g/km | 145 g/km |
| Start Stop System | - | No |
| Hybrid System Type | - | Not Applicable |
| Noise Level | - | 68 dB |
| Variable Valve Timing | - | CVVT on Intake Camshaft |
| Fuel Octane Requirement | - | 93 RON Unleaded |
| 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 | DOLPHIN SURF | Picanto |
|---|---|---|
| Service Plan | 4 years/2 services service plan | 3 Years/45 |
| Service Interval | - | 15,000 km or 12 Months — Whichever First |
| 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 Capacity | - | 3.8 l |
| Engine Oil Change Interval | - | 10,000 km or 6 Months |
| First Service At | - | 1,000 km Inspection and Safety Check |
| Service Plan Duration | 4 years/2 services service plan | 3 Years/45 |
| Service Plan Distance | 4 years/2 services service plan | 3 Years/45 |
| 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 | DOLPHIN SURF | Picanto |
|---|---|---|
| Ownership Role | longer-range city derivative | Flagship |
| Price Zar | 395900 ZAR | 325995 ZAR |
| Pricing Role | longer-range city derivative | Current listed price |
| Starting Price | 395900 | 325995 |
| Starting Price Zar | 395900 | 325995 |
| Spec | DOLPHIN SURF | Picanto |
|---|---|---|
| Warranty | 3 years/100000 km complete vehicle; 8 years/200000 km power battery; 5 years/100000 km drive unit | 7 Years/150 |
| Warranty Years | 3 years/100000 km complete vehicle; 8 years/200000 km power battery; 5 years/100000 km drive unit | 7 Years/150 |
| Warranty Kilometers | 3 years/100000 km complete vehicle; 8 years/200000 km power battery; 5 years/100000 km drive unit | 7 Years/150 |
| Roadside Assistance | - | 5 Years Roadside Assistance |
| Anti-Corrosion Warranty | - | 5 Years |
| Basic Warranty | 3 years/100000 km complete vehicle; 8 years/200000 km power battery; 5 years/100000 km drive unit | 7 Years/150 |
| Roadside Assistance | - | 5 Years Roadside Assistance |
| Warranty Roadside Assistance | - | 5 Years Roadside Assistance |
| Spec | DOLPHIN SURF | 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 |
A transparent specification index shown only when every vehicle clears the minimum comparable-data threshold.
DOLPHIN SURF and Picanto are close on the comparable published fields, so buyer priorities should decide.
Close catalogue match. Buyer priorities should decide the outcome.
In Hagalu's source-backed catalogue index, DOLPHIN SURF leads. However, Picanto may suit buyers prioritising different confirmed fields. Ultimately, the right choice depends on your driving priorities in South Africa.
See how similar cars go head-to-head — you might find a better fit than you expected.
Other comparisons that people in the same boat tend to check out.
There is no universal winner. Use the comparison table to match the exact South African derivatives 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.
Hagalu does not publish a guaranteed resale winner. Depreciation depends on age, mileage, condition, derivative, colour, supply and demand. Compare several current used-market listings and obtain trade-in valuations for equivalent examples before relying on a resale estimate.
Check the exact derivatives for drive type, ground clearance, tyres, approach and departure angles, wading depth and low-range gearing where officially disclosed. SUV styling or all-wheel drive alone does not prove that a vehicle is suitable for demanding off-road use.
Calculate each exact derivative using your monthly distance and a current fuel or electricity price, then add finance, insurance, scheduled service, tyres and licence costs. Hagalu does not claim a fixed monthly saving without those buyer-specific inputs.
It is worth more only when the exact price difference buys equipment, space, performance or ownership cover that matters to you. Compare like-for-like lifecycle states and derivatives; a current offer and a historical last-listed price are not directly equivalent.
This DOLPHIN SURF and Picanto comparison uses the exact South African derivatives selected above. The catalogue index covers performance, efficiency, safety equipment, practicality and ownership cover only where comparable source-backed fields are present.
Performance index: DOLPHIN SURF 25 vs Picanto 28.
Efficiency index: DOLPHIN SURF 90 vs Picanto 61.
Safety-equipment index: DOLPHIN SURF 87 vs Picanto 89.
Practicality index: DOLPHIN SURF 51 vs Picanto 53.
Ownership-cover index: DOLPHIN SURF 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.
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