Kia has unveiled the updated Stonic, bringing design changes, upgraded tech, and more safety features to its compact crossover. Positioned in the highly competitive small SUV market — a segment that accounts for more than 15% of new vehicle sales in Australia — the Stonic remains an entry-level choice for buyers wanting SUV practicality without the size and price tag of larger models.
Size and Everyday Practicality
At 4,165 mm long, the Stonic is designed with city use in mind, but still offers up to 352 litres of boot space. Front passengers get 1,070 mm of legroom, which is generous for the class. The dimensions make it a direct rival to the Mazda CX-3, Hyundai Venue, and Toyota Yaris Cross, all popular in Australian urban centres.
Engines and Efficiency
Globally, Kia has confirmed a 1.0-litre turbo-petrol engine, available in both standard petrol and mild-hybrid (MHEV) form. Transmission options include a six-speed manual or seven-speed dual-clutch automatic (DCT).
While Australian specifications are yet to be finalised, the current Stonic uses the same small-capacity engines, and fuel consumption typically sits between 5.4–6.0 L/100 km depending on variant. For reference, that’s more efficient than the Mazda CX-3 (6.3–6.9 L/100 km) but not as frugal as hybrid rivals such as the Toyota Yaris Cross (around 4.0 L/100 km).
Design Updates
The facelift adopts Kia’s evolving design language, with sharper styling front and rear:
- Front: redesigned bumper, grille, and new Star Map LED daytime running lights
- Rear: updated tailgate and taillight signature, cleaner bumper design
- Wheels: new 16- and 17-inch alloys, with the sportier GT-Line exclusively offering the larger option
- Colours: new paint choices, including Adventurous Green and Yacht Blue
Interior and Technology
The cabin gets a noticeable lift, borrowing tech from Kia’s larger models:
- Dual 12.3-inch panoramic displays combining driver instrumentation and infotainment
- Multimode touch controls replacing physical HVAC switches
- USB-C fast charging and wireless phone charging
- Ambient lighting and a refreshed dashboard/steering wheel layout
These upgrades push the Stonic’s cabin closer to small premium SUVs, though final Australian trim levels may differ.
Connectivity
The Stonic introduces features rarely seen in its price bracket:
- Kia Connect: cloud-based services, live vehicle diagnostics, and remote functions via smartphone app
- Digital Key: unlock and start the car using a smartphone or smartwatch
If these features are carried over to Australian models, they would set the Stonic apart from most mainstream rivals.
Safety and Driver Assistance
The facelift brings a strengthened driver-assistance suite, with Kia confirming availability of:
- Blind-Spot Collision Avoidance Assist with Safe Exit Warning
- Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist 1.5
- Navigation-based Smart Cruise Control
- Highway Driving Assist and Lane Following Assist
The current Stonic already holds a five-star ANCAP rating (2020), and these updates are likely to bolster its safety standing further.
Australian Context
Pricing for the updated Stonic hasn’t been announced, but the existing range starts at around AUD $23,500 before on-road costs, undercutting most competitors in the compact SUV class. If Kia maintains similar pricing, the Stonic will remain one of the more affordable entries into the SUV market while offering more tech than before.
