Just three months after going on sale, the Kia Picanto has been named Northern Car of the Year by the Northern Group of Motoring Writers.

Presenting the award, Derrick Grocock, vice-chairman said: “Kia’s consistent quality and style have seen them become the only company to have two vehicles in the Top 10 on three separate occasions – and this year Picanto topped the bill with the all-new Sportage right behind.

“Picanto was a clear winner thanks to its looks, quality and excellent packaging which makes it such a perfect city-car,” he added.

Michael Cole, managing director of Kia Motors (UK) Limited said: “We are delighted to get this award from such a well-known group of fair-minded and practical journalists! This is the first major award for Picanto but I don’t think it will be the last.”