Kia has just pulled the covers off a significantly updated Stonic, and it’s clear they’re not playing it safe in the fiercely competitive compact crossover segment. Drawing inspiration from the brand’s bold ‘Opposites United’ design philosophy, the new Stonic has been enhanced inside and out, packing in technology and features usually reserved for vehicles in a much higher price bracket. Kia Corporation’s President and CEO, Ho Sung Song, stated, “The new Stonic demonstrates how Kia continues to bring the benefits of elevated design and advanced technology into the mainstream market… the new Stonic raises the standard for compact crossovers worldwide.”
It’s important to note that this grand unveiling is an international release from Kia’s Head Office. While we’re excited about what’s been shown, the final specifications, powertrain options, and features for the New Zealand market are yet to be confirmed by Kia NZ.
A Confident New Look
Guided by the ‘Opposites United’ design language, the new Stonic sports a more expressive and confident character. While it keeps its city-friendly compact footprint, the visual changes are dramatic. The front fascia is completely refreshed, now featuring Kia’s striking ‘Star Map Signature Lighting’, which integrates into a sharper, more structured grille and an aggressive new bumper design. Around the back, the updates continue with a redesigned tailgate, a modernised taillight signature, and a cleaner bumper profile that modernises its dynamic stance. The look is completed with new 16-inch and 17-inch alloy wheel designs, with exclusive 17-inch alloys for the GT-Line trim. To top it off, two vibrant new colours join the palette: Adventurous Green and Yacht Blue.
An Interior That Punches Above Its Weight
The biggest story is inside, where the new Stonic’s cabin has been redefined with an influence from upper-segment vehicles. Dominating the dashboard is a new panoramic dual-display layout, which connects two 12.3-inch screens to create a seamless digital instrument cluster and advanced infotainment hub. This kind of setup is a new benchmark for compact crossovers. In a clever move, Kia has replaced traditional heating and ventilation controls with a sleek Multimode Touch Display, allowing the user to toggle between climate and infotainment menus with a simple touch. The driver is treated to a redesigned steering wheel (for both Base and GT-Line models) and a resculpted gear knob. Convenience is also boosted with the addition of USB-C fast-charging ports, a wireless smartphone charger, and ambient lighting to enhance the cabin experience.
Smart Powertrains and Everyday Practicality
The international release details a powertrain lineup designed to meet diverse needs, including a 1.0-litre T-GDI (turbocharged gasoline direct injection) engine. This engine will be available in both standard internal combustion (ICE) and mild-hybrid (MHEV) specifications, the latter of which uses a small electric motor to improve efficiency and reduce emissions. Buyers can pair this with either a six-speed manual or a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT).Despite its bold new style, the Stonic remains a practical choice. It measures 4,165 mm in length and offers up to 352 litres of cargo capacity, striking a balance between versatile interior space and an urban-friendly footprint.
Big-Car Tech for a Digital Generation
The new Stonic is loaded with an impressive suite of connectivity and safety systems. Designed for our digitally connected lives, it integrates Kia Connect, which offers cloud-based services and remote vehicle interaction through the Kia App.A standout feature is the new Digital Key function, which lets drivers use a compatible smartphone or smartwatch to unlock and start the vehicle—a convenience once reserved for premium luxury cars.On the safety front, the Stonic now boasts one of the most comprehensive Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) packages in its class.Key features include:
- Blind-spot Collision Avoidance Assist (BCA) with Safe Exit Warning (SEW): Helps prevent collisions when changing lanes or reversing and alerts occupants to approaching traffic before they open a door.
- Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist 1.5 (FCA 1.5): Detects potential hazards ahead to help mitigate or avoid a collision.
- Navigation-based Smart Cruise Control: Intelligently adjusts speed when approaching corners on a highway.
- Highway Driving Assist (HDA) and Lane Following Assist (LFA): Helps maintain a safe distance from the vehicle ahead while keeping the Stonic centred in its lane on the motorway.
By integrating these features, Kia is positioning the new Stonic as a leader in compact crossover safety, delivering peace of mind often found only in larger, more expensive vehicles.We’ll be watching keenly for news from Kia New Zealand on local pricing and arrival dates.
