Kia Stonic has been described by the local importer as “a sporty urban crossover”. It’s not a new model, having been on sale overseas since 2017, but we will get the recently upgraded model.
The Stonic has an 8-inch audio-visual unit with wireless Apple Carplay and Android Auto connectivity on the S trim only. However, wireless connectivity is not available on Sport and GT-Line trims where satellite navigation backed by 10-year Mapcare and SUNA traffic services support is included.
Bluetooth connectivity permits simultaneous pairing of up to two smartphones for individual music output through the Bluetooth streaming function.
All models have USB ports for the connection of memory sticks and other USB storage devices for both front and rear passengers.
All Stonic models coming Downunder are car/pedestrian/cyclist detection automatic emergency braking, lane following assist, reversing camera with dynamic parking guidelines, rear parking sensors, driver attention alert, cruise control, wireless Apple Carplay and Android Auto (S trim only), multi-connection Bluetooth, 8-inch Multimedia touchscreen, six-speaker sound system, 4.2-inch TFT LCD driver’s cluster, 15-inch steel wheels and auto headlights.
Stonic Sport adds 17-inch alloy wheels, smart key with push button start, 8-inch multimedia touchscreen with navigation, 10-year Mapcare updates with SUNA Traffic, electric folding mirrors and premium steering wheel and shifter.
Stonic GT-Line has the 1.0-litre turbo-petrol GDI engine, seven-speed dual clutch transmission and a sportier suspension tune. The GT-Line rides on bespoke 17-inch alloys, idle-stop-and-go (also on manual S and Sport), LED headlights, two tone colour or sunroof, cloth and artificial leather seats, climate control air conditioning, privacy glass and electrochromic mirror.
Stonic is available in seven colours for the 1.4-litre car: Clear White, Silky Silver, Perennial Grey, Aurora Black Pearl, Signal Red, Mighty Yellow and Sport Blue.
The GT-Line has the option of four two-tone treatments: Clear white with Aurora Black Pearl roof, Mighty Yellow and Aurora Black Pearl roof, Sporty Blue with Aura Black Pearl Roof and Signal Red with Aurora Black Pearl Roof. Silky Silver is not available on GT-Line.
Buyers can choose between the 1.4-litre MPI making 74kW, and 133Nm 4000rpm and the 1.0-litre turbo-petrol in the GT-Line variant with 74kW, and 172Nm from 1500 to 4000rpm.
Both engines drive the front wheels, through either a six-speed manual or automatic in the 1.4-litre models, or seven-speed dual-clutch auto in the GT-Line.
Kia Stonic has received the usual very welcome local ride and handling refinements to suit Australian road conditions and driver preferences.
We’ve yet to road test a Kia Stonic but will carry out one as soon as they land in Australia and get back to you with our thoughts.
MODEL RANGE
Stonic S: $22,990 (manual), $23,990 (automatic)
Stonic Sport: $24,990 (manual), $25,990 (automatic)
Stonic GT-Line: $29,990 (automatic)
Note: These are drive-away prices and include all dealer delivery and government charges.
