Recently, we introduced the upcoming facelift of the Kia Morning (known as Picanto in some markets), and now news has broken that it will be launched on the 5th. Kia has unveiled the New Morning, which features a redesigned exterior that's practically new-car level, along with class-leading advanced driver assistance systems and convenience features. The appearance closely resembles the previously leaked facelift photos. The New Morning is the first in its class to feature LED headlamps with a center positioning lamp. The LED center positioning lamp creates a wide, horizontal feel with the LED daytime running lights that implement the star map signature lighting.

The bumper, which complements the black grille, has been given a simple treatment, creating an urban yet dynamic appearance. The side profile is even more dynamic, with a line connecting the star map signature lighting to the signature rear combination lamps. The 16-inch wheels feature a harmonious blend of different shapes, creating a unique image for the Morning.

The rear of the Morning facelift makes a strong impression with its signature rear combination lamps and three-dimensional bumper. The design is completed with taillamps that connect vertically to the lower bumper reflectors. The New Morning offers a total of seven exterior colors, with the addition of Adventurous Green and Signal Red. The interior now comes in three color options, with the addition of brown and dark green.

A notable advantage of this facelift is the inclusion of advanced driver assistance systems and highly sought-after convenience features. The Smart Cruise Control, which controls speed in safety zones and curved sections when driving on highways and motorways, has been installed. This system operates in conjunction with the navigation system but does not support stop-and-go functionality. The Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, which automatically helps with braking when a collision is anticipated with a cyclist in front, an oncoming vehicle when turning left at an intersection, or a vehicle approaching from the opposite direction, has been installed. The High Beam Assist, which automatically adjusts high beams to prevent glare for other drivers, has also been added.

The Morning facelift includes an 8-inch display audio system with phone projection features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a rear-view monitor, power-folding outside mirrors linked to door locking, front row C-type USB charging ports as standard, a smart key system with remote start support, and second-row C-type USB charging ports, demonstrating high product value.

For the Morning 2-seater van, an improved model has also been released, featuring a standard 6-airbag system, 8-inch display audio, rear-view monitor, and front row C-type USB ports to enhance convenience. The New Morning, equipped with a 1.0-liter gasoline engine and 4-speed automatic transmission, offers high combined fuel efficiency of 15.1 km/L (35.5 mpg) with 14-inch wheels, which is nearly the best in its class.

Not only has the design been revealed, but pricing has also been announced. The New Morning Trendy trim is priced at 13.15 million won ($11,080 USD), the Prestige trim at 14.85 million won ($12,510 USD), and the Signature trim at 16.55 million won ($13,940 USD). For the 2-seater Morning van model, the Trendy trim is priced at 12.9 million won ($10,870 USD), and the Prestige trim at 13.6 million won ($11,460 USD).