Kia adds Picanto Chilli and Sportage Axis special editions

Kia is hoping to give two models in its range an extra kick with new special editions. A new 'Chilli' variant of the Picanto city car offers sat-nav for the first time, while the Sportage 'Axis' loads up on extra equipment and better value for money.

The Picanto Chilli can be purchased now from £11,495 (manual) and £12,095 (automatic), sporting three doors and powered solely by a 1.2 84bhp four-cylinder engine. The special edition city car will sit above the SR7 in the range with three exterior colours (red, black and white) and a red interior trim unique to the Chilli. 

Twin exhaust tailpipes aim to lift the recently revised Picanto, while corresponding coloured sills and new 15-inch alloy wheels finish off the exterior looks. Aluminium pedals are coupled with red and grey seats to match the interior trim, while gloss black detailing is also added. The biggest news is that this is the first Picanto to be available with sat-nav, with a seven-inch touchscreen borrowed from the Rio featuring European maps and a reversing camera included.

A limited-run edition of the Sportage midsize SUV has also been added to the range, dubbed the 'Axis'. Starting from £20,995 and available with the 1.6-litre petrol or 1.7-litre diesel engines, the Axis is designed to offer some luxury features from the flagship models at a lower price. 

Exterior tweaks exclude a gloss black radiator grille, roof rails, LED tail-lamps and electric folding mirrors. Inside there's black trim and headlining, leather seats, a seven-speaker Infinity sound system and a seven-inch touchscreen sat-nav, while heated rear seats and privacy glass complete the main upgrades.