Kia has just lifted the curtain on the revamped Kia Stonic. The compact SUV now sports the brand’s latest design language and gets a lot more tech to keep up with the competition, minus an electric powertrain for the time being. However, there is a mild-hybrid in the lineup and it will be coming to Australia for the first time.
Sharper exterior design
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Borrowing from Kia’s renowned “Opposites United” design philosophy, the updated Stonic displays bolder styling. It features a reimagined front grille and fascia, signature lighting treatment, and fresh wheel designs (16-inch or 17-inch alloys, with 17-inch alloys exclusive to GT-Line). Since it’s not an entirely new-generation, a lot of the body panels have been carried forward from the outgoing Stonic.
Dimensions remain compact — measuring 4,165mm in length — and the Stonic continues to offer up to 352 litres of luggage space.
Modern interiors & connectivity upgrade
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Inside, the new and improved Kia Stonic packs a host of technology updates
- A panoramic dual-display setup comprising two 12.3-inch screens for digital instrumentation and infotainment
- A sleek “Multimode Touch Display” replaces conventional HVAC controls with a dynamic interface
- Practical upgrades such as USB-C fast charging, wireless phone charging, ambient lighting, and a redesigned centre console and steering wheel
- Seamless integration of Kia Connect — cloud services, remote vehicle control via app, Digital Key for keyless entry via smartphone or smartwatch
New Stonic powertrain options
The Kia Stonic retains its 1.0L turbo petrol engine, now joined by a new mild-hybrid option for added efficiency.
| Specification | Details | |
| Engine | 1.0L Turbo Petrol | 1.0L Mild-Hybrid Petrol |
| Power Output | 74kW | 85kW |
| Torque Output | 172Nm | 172-200Nm |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual/ 7-speed dual-clutch automatic | 7-speed dual-clutch automatic |
| Fuel Consumption | 5.4L/100km | 4.7L/100km |
Previously, the non-hybrid petrol engine was available with both a 6-speed manual and 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. However, the mild-hybrid variant is expected to be paired with an automatic transmission
Safety & driver aids
The list of safety features gets a significant upgrade too. The new Kia Stonic features a comprehensive ADAS package, including:
- Blind-spot collision-avoidance assist with safe exit warning
- Forward collision-avoidance assist 1.5
- Navigation-based smart cruise control
- Highway driving assists with lane following assist
A fresh contender for Australia’s compact SUV market
With this update, the Kia Stonic is looking to dominate over its rivals, the Toyota Yaris Cross Hybrid, Nissan Juke, and Mazda CX-3. While we don’t have a clear launch date yet, the new Kia Stonic is due to reach Australian showrooms in the final quarter of the year. Sleek design, upscale interior tech, robust safety, and practical fuel options combine to make it a standout choice for urban Australians seeking style and substance.
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