The Kia Stonic has been given a major refresh, placing its updated engine line-up at the heart of the changes. The uprated range includes a 1.0-litre turbocharged petrol with 100hp and a 115hp mild-hybrid (MHEV) version. Both promise strong efficiency and low running costs, helping the Stonic compete with rivals such as the Ford Puma, Renault Captur and Volkswagen T-Cross in a sector where every mpg counts.
The mild-hybrid brings an extra 28Nm of torque (200Nm in auto form) and smoother stop-start performance, while the petrol keeps things simple and affordable. Expect official economy figures in the mid-40s mpg, with CO2 starting below 120g/km for the MHEV, making it competitive for VED road tax. Performance is respectable for the class, with the 115hp version offering more overtaking power and easier motorway cruising.
Kia says this two-engine strategy reflects the fact that not all European buyers are ready to go fully electric. With a six-speed manual or seven-speed dual-clutch auto available, the Stonic aims to strike the right balance between economy and usability for drivers who still want the familiarity of petrol.
‘With the Stonic, we have reimagined what a small SUV can be,’ said Pablo Martínez Masip, Vice President of Product & Marketing. ‘We’ve fused advanced tech, daring design, and smart mobility into a package that’s both accessible and aspirational.’
New look, more tech inside
Beyond the engines, the facelift brings sharper bumpers, Kia’s striking headlight design and fresh alloy wheel designs, along with two new colours, Adventurous Green and Yacht Blue. Inside, the big news is a twin 12.3-inch screen setup merging infotainment and driving data, plus USB-C charging and wireless phone charging. Safety tech has also been upgraded, with systems such as Blind-spot Collision Avoidance and Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist now offered.
These touches bring the Stonic closer to the class leaders on interior tech and safety, even if it remains one of the smaller, more affordable choices in the sector. Practicality is unchanged, with 352 litres of boot space and decent rear-seat room for a car of this size.
What this means for you
If you’re in the market for a small crossover, the Stonic’s appeal lies in its blend of affordable petrol power and mild-hybrid efficiency. You don’t need to pay EV prices or rely on charging infrastructure, but you still benefit from lower fuel bills and CO2.
It’s not as big inside as a Skoda Kamiq, but it undercuts many rivals on price while matching them for equipment. That makes it a sound option for families who want SUV looks without stretching to a larger model.
With Ford and Renault both investing heavily in hybrids, Kia’s strategy shows that efficient ICE still has a strong role to play. For buyers, it’s another reminder that going electric isn’t the only choice right now.
Editor’s view: all’s good for petrol buyers
This update to the Kia Stonic tells me that the firm is listening to real-world buyers. Not everyone is ready for an electric car, and it’s refreshing to see a manufacturer provide petrol and hybrid engines rather than cutting them out. The mild-hybrid Stonic could be a smart stepping stone, giving better mpg and lower emissions without adding hassle.
What matters now is pricing. MG and Chery in particualar are driving down EV costs, and unless Kia positions the Stonic very keenly, buyers could drift elsewhere. Petrol cars are still hugely relevant, but only if they remain good value.
That said, the facelift makes the Stonic more appealing and modern looking. It’s efficient, well-equipped and safety-packed, without forcing buyers into tech they might not be ready for. In my book, that’s a win for consumer choice.
Keith Adams – Editor, Parkers
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