Picanto II (TA) vs Kalina II: which is better?
Kia Picanto II (TA) (2011–2017) vs Lada Kalina II (2013–2018): specs, fuel economy, tax and common problems.
Lada Kalina IISpecifications
| Kia Picanto II (TA) | Lada Kalina II | |
|---|---|---|
| Production years | 2011–2017 | 2013–2018 |
| Body | hatchback | hatchback |
| Fuel | petrol | petrol |
| Engines | 1.2 | 1.6 8V |
| Power, up to | 85 hp | 87 hp |
| Torque, up to | 121 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Gearbox | automatic | manual |
| Drive | front-wheel drive | front-wheel drive |
| Length | 3 595 mm | 3 893 mm |
| Width | 1 595 mm | 1 700 mm |
| Height | 1 480 mm | 1 500 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2 385 mm | 2 476 mm |
| Fuel tank | 35 L | 50 L |
| KZ tax 2026 (car under 10 years) | ≈ 8 650 ₸ | ≈ 13 675 ₸ |
The better value is highlighted in green.
Pros, cons and common problems
Kia Picanto II (TA)
Pros
- Conventional automatic, no robotized gearbox or CVT
- Sold in all major markets of the region — parts and mechanics available
Cons
- Small tank: 35 L
Lada Kalina II
Pros
- Local assembly: Russia
- Sold in all major markets of the region — parts and mechanics available
Cons
- Engine VAZ (1.5–1.6): timing belt failure: bends valves on some engines
Engine (VAZ (1.5–1.6)): timing belt snapping: bends valves on some engines; sensor and thermostat failures; valve cover leak.
Which one to choose
- Picanto II (TA) — if you care more about: kz tax 2026.
- Kalina II — if you care more about: power, torque, wheelbase, fuel tank.
The condition of a specific car matters more than the model: check the service history and get the engine and gearbox inspected before buying.
FAQ
Which is more powerful: Picanto II (TA) or Kalina II?
Picanto II (TA): up to 85 hp, Kalina II: up to 87 hp.
What is the vehicle tax in Kazakhstan?
For 2026, for a car under 10 years old: Picanto II (TA) — about 8 650 ₸, Kalina II — about 13 675 ₸ (base engine). A 0.7 factor applies to cars aged 10–20 years and 0.5 to cars over 20.
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