Debuting within a week of its closely-related brother, the Hyundai Kona, it’s now Kia’s turn in the limelight with the Stonic compact SUV.
Despite having a lot in common with the Kona, Kia has imbued the Stonic with a different character altogether. Stylistically, it is more conventional, albeit with a sporting bend and unique details such as the lightning bolt-esque motif along the lower rear sill.
The rear end appears similar to that on Sportage and other Kia SUVs, but condensed into a smaller package. Like the Kona, customisation appears to be a large part of the equation, with mix and match panels for roof, spoiler and mirror caps plus two-tone paint.
The interior carries over the orthodoxy seen on other recent Kias, such as the latest Rio, but adds a bit more flair and colour. Boot space is 352 litres, while Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard.
Engines range from a 1.0-litre turbo with 88kW, to the 1.25-litre unit in the Picanto, and a 1.6-litre diesel. New technology includes autonomous emergency braking, forward collision alert, blind-spot monitor, cross-traffic alert and lane departure warning.
No word on Australian launch yet but we will keep you updated as details come to hand.
