THE Kia Stonic is the Korean company’s smallest SUV and, while it has been on sale for a few years now, it still catches the eye.
To keep it fresh, new features – including a hybrid powertrain and sporty GT-Line models – have been added to the range.
There are now four variants headed by a pair of efficient new Smartstream 1.0-litre T-GDi petrol powertrains rated at 99 and 118bhp, with cutting-edge innovations designed to boost efficiency.
The more powerful engine is available with Kia’s new 48-volt mild-hybrid technology and “clutch-by-wire” intelligent manual transmission.
The new hybrid powertrain comes with a drive mode select system allowing motorists to choose from eco, sport and normal modes.
As mentioned, the range features new GT-Line and flagship GT-Line S specs, while the entry-level model is branded as Stonic 2 and there is a high-end Connect model in the mix. So that means there is something for everyone in the line-up.
The GT-Line models boast sporty design features including a special front grille, LED headlights and daytime running lights, together with more dynamic front and rear bumpers, an integrated front skid plate and LED fog lamps.
Inside, the racier feel is enhanced by a leather D-cut steering wheel with GT-Line motif and a carbon-look dash pad. The black cloth and faux leather seats are embossed with the GT-Line logo and feature stitching and piping.
A new eight-inch multimedia and navigation system dominates the cabin, and a 4.2in colour display is nestled within the instrument cluster.
Safety features have been boosted, with GT-Line and GT-Line S models featuring forward collision-avoidance assist with pedestrian and cyclist detection, lane keeping assist, driver attention warning and high beam assist.
And GT-Line S versions additionally feature blind spot collision warning and intelligent speed limit assist.
Other advanced technology features include rear parking sensors and a reversing camera system, with GT-Line S models also featuring front parking sensors.
Other equipment highlights include rear privacy glass, electrically folding door mirrors and automatic air con, while the touchscreen nav system has the very latest Kia UVO Connect Phase II telematics software along with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay for full hi-tech integration.
I have been sampling the GT-Line S model with the 1.0T GDI 48v mild-hybrid engine that is mated to a six-speed manual gearbox, priced from £23,310 on the road.
It is good enough to take the stylish little SUV, which is based on the Rio hatchback, to 60mph in 10.4 seconds before going on to a top speed of 115mph.
It proved to be quite economical, averaging just under 50mpg overall, although on a longer run I achieved about 58mpg.
The Stonic was easy to drive and had enough room for four adults and this version was crammed with kit, while the interior finish was functional and well put together – with a durability that should suit families.
The ride is quite firm but the Stonic feels well-balanced and poised while the steering is sharp and accurate. It is agile out on the open road, cruises comfortably at motorway speeds and, thanks to the fine vision, it is at home in busy towns.
The little three-pot engine is impressive and while it can sound a bit gruff if you push it hard that adds to the sense of fun.
Overall, the Stonic is an enjoyable and practical small family car that offers decent space and style at an affordable price and it also comes with Kia’s superb seven-year/100,000-mile warranty.
● This cracking range of compact crossovers costs from £19,260 and, with a deposit of £577, the Stonic 2 is available from just £277 per month over three years plus an optional final payment – with the first two services free at Flear & Thomson.
