Stonic comes in three grades the ‘S’ which we drove last year and the Sport and GT-Line which we have driven over the last couple of weeks.

All models are well equipped, the GT-Line with the little luxuries that buyers seem to want.

Stonic Sport comes with a 1.4L 4 Cyl petrol engine producing 74kW of power and 133Nm of torque. It drives the front wheels only through a 6 Sp AT.

It’s definitely not sporty but has adequate performance for around town driving and will allow easy freeway cruising.

The GT-Line comes with a 1.0L 3 Cyl turbo petrol engine with a 7 Sp DSG. It provides the same 74kW of power but 172Nm of torque for a zipper performance.

There is plenty of room up front for occupants, not so much in the rear seats, and boot space is good.

It seems that the SUV style vehicle continues to replace hatches and if you think of the Stonic as a bulkier Rio, then you get the picture.

The GT-Line is priced from $30,790 plus the usual costs.

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Im Rob Fraser

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Quick Kia Stonic Thoughts

• There is a noticeable difference between the two engines.
• The GT with its 1.0L three cylinder engine is a bit more fun and zippier, but I usually prefer an old school automatic transmission rather than a DSG.
• The 1.4L 4 cylinder can feel a little breathless at times, ok for around town but not much fun.
• The DSG is a little jerky around town and needs practice to drive smoothly
• Typically Kia both vehicles are well equipped and well priced.

Kia Stonic Final thoughts

Urban based SUVs are for the demographic that wants the more upright seating position, with the extra space over a hatchback and sedan but dont need the extra benefits of AWD.

Kia Stonic fits the brief perfectly.

Its typically Kia, packed with features, value based pricing, Australian tunes suspension and an outstanding warranty.

I would prefer the GT-Line for the zippier performance, but bear in mind the slightly jerky nature of the DCT.

Also look at

The small Urban SUV segment is full of vehicles with a plethora of choice.

Buyers could look at the Mazda CX-30, Hyundai Venue, Citroen C3, Toyota Yaris Cross, VW T Cross, Skoda Karoq, 

*MLP Includes GST and LCT but excluding statutory charges, dealer costs and dealer delivery. See your dealer for RDAP. Does not include price of options. Some features mentioned in the article are options. RDAP means Recommended Drive Away Price (without options but including all other charges)

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