The B-segment SUV is red hot. A week after the presentation of the amazing Hyundai Kauai, the second brand of the Hyundai Group also presented its proposal, the Kia Stonic. In a segment that is already worth 1.1 million units (and which continues to grow), this model will face rivals such as the Nissan Juke, Renault Captur, Peugeot 2008 or the Mazda CX-3.
As such, it is a key model in the South Korean brand's strategy, positioning itself below Sportage and alongside Soul in terms of range. In the midst of this small “revolution” within the Kia family, the days numbered is the Venga compact minivan – which, according to the brand itself, is unlikely to know a successor.
Returning to the new Kia Stonic, anyone who still remembers the Kia Provo, a prototype launched at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show, won't be surprised by the design.
Kia Stonic
Designed in Europe in close collaboration with Kia's design center in South Korea, the Kia Stonic is born from the same platform as the Kia Rio SUV – unlike the Hyundai Kauai which debuts an entirely new platform. In front of the river, Stonic has a higher floor height and a totally different design, despite maintaining the «family air» of the brand. According to Kia, Stonic is the most customizable model in the brand's history, with 20 color combinations available.
The name “Stonic” combines the words “Speedy” and “Tonic” in a reference to two terms used in musical scales.
The customization possibilities also carry over to the interior, where we find Kia's latest-generation infotainment system, with a touchscreen that brings together the main functions – Android Auto and Apple Car Play connectivity systems could not be missing.
As for habitability, Kia promises space in the shoulders, legs and head area above the segment average. The trunk has a capacity of 352 liters.
The range of engines comprises three petrol options – 1.0 T-GDI, 1.25 MPI and 1.4 MPI – and a diesel with 1.6 liters. The new Kia Stonic is scheduled for launch on the national market in October.
