MG MG3 vs Kia Picanto
A detailed look at how two of Australia's most popular Hatchbacks compare on price, running costs, safety, and everyday livability.
Specifications and pricing correct at time of publishing. Prices are RRP before on-road costs unless stated otherwise. Always confirm with the manufacturer or dealer before purchasing.
Price Breakdown
The MG MG3 starts from $20,990 before on-road costs, while the Kia Picanto opens at $18,390. That makes the Kia Picanto the more affordable entry point by $2,600.
Once you factor in stamp duty, registration, CTP insurance, and dealer delivery, expect to add roughly 8-12% on top of the RRP depending on your state. That puts estimated driveaway prices in the ballpark of $23,089 and $20,229 respectively.
Over 5 years, the running costs are nearly identical since both have similar efficiency.
Safety Rundown
Both the MG MG3 and Kia Picanto hold a 4-star ANCAP safety rating. Adult occupant protection scored 74% for the MG MG3 and 87% for the Kia Picanto.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. The MG MG3 packs more ADAS features with 5 out of 10 key systems fitted, compared to 3 in the Kia Picanto.
Both include the essentials: autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, a reversing camera. Airbag count is 6 in the MG MG3 and 6 in the Kia Picanto.
Feature Showdown
The MG MG3 features a 10.3-inch touchscreen, while the Kia Picanto gets a 8-inch display. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The MG MG3 stands out with power tailgate that you will not find on the Kia Picanto. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The MG MG3 uses a Petrol producing 81kW and 142Nm of torque, sent through a cvt to a FWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 10.8 seconds.
The Kia Picanto responds with a Petrol making 62kW and 122Nm, paired to a manual driving the front wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 12.2 seconds.
The MG MG3 has the clear power advantage at 81kW vs 62kW. In the real-world sprint, the MG MG3 is 1.4s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The MG MG3 measures 4,113mm long on a 2,570mm wheelbase, 518mm longer than the Kia Picanto at 3,595mm (2,400mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the MG MG3 generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 293L in the MG MG3 and 255L in the Kia Picanto, giving the MG MG3 a 38L advantage.
0Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
9.8m to 10.2m
Based on 10.2m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Based on 9.8m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Turning circle ratings
True Cost to Own
Based on 15,000km of annual driving, fuel costs roughly $1,710/year for the MG MG3 and $1,539/year for the Kia Picanto. That is a $171 annual difference in favour of the Kia Picanto.
Estimated annual total: $1,710 (MG MG3) vs $1,539 (Kia Picanto). The Kia Picanto saves you roughly $171 per year in total ownership costs. Use our Fuel Cost Calculator to estimate based on your driving.
Warranty: 10 years / 250,000km (MG MG3) vs 7 years / 999,999km (Kia Picanto). The MG MG3 has longer coverage.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the MG MG3 if: You prioritise performance, need more boot space, value a longer warranty, or prefer MG's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Kia Picanto if: You want the lower entry price, want lower running costs, or prefer Kia's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The MG MG3 takes 5 of 7 key spec categories. The Kia Picanto will save you roughly $171 a year in fuel. If boot space matters, the MG MG3 has a clear edge. The MG MG3 adds peace of mind with a longer 10-year warranty. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Disclaimer: All information in this comparison was believed to be correct at the time of publishing (20 April 2026). Prices are manufacturer recommended retail prices (RRP) and may vary by state, dealer, and options. Driveaway costs include estimated on-road costs for Victoria. Fuel economy figures are WLTP/ADR combined cycle. Specifications can change without notice. Always verify with the manufacturer before making a purchase decision. CarSorted does not accept payment for recommendations.
Published by CarSorted Editorial Team · 20 April 2026
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