Kia Stonic 2021 Review

Kia Stonic has been on sale for several months, but Covid has strip-mined the auto industry with delivery promises left in tatters. That didn’t stop 745 Stonics finding homes last month.

Kia showrooms have a clear demarcation in design, between Sorento, Seltos and Carnival on the one side and everything else is on the other side. None the less, Stonic looks like being a hit. It has been out overseas for several years, with a replacement still several years off.

We recently reviewed the Niro, and and weren’t impressed.  Design and finish was OK for an entry level car, but price was anything but entry level. Stonic however, has a price that matches its claims.

There are a few missing gadgets though. blind spot monitor and active cruise control are absent, and unlikely to make an appearance. Stonic makes up for it with a generously appointed cabin, compliant ride, and excellent economy.

Stonic is no rocket, instead, it is a clever, comfortable little city car that, equally capable on the highway

The exterior is petite, with more than a passing resemblance to a compact hatchback. The LED lights have dusk sensing, and a 1.0L 3-cylinder turbo with a 7 speed DCT automatic under the bonnet. All Stonics are Front Wheel Drive, which is fine for the intended audience.

Other KIA Stonic reviews

• KIA Stonic finally arrives in Australia
• Kia Stonic GT-Line Urban SUV Review
• Kia Stonic GT-Line SUV 2021 Review

What is the KIA Stonic like to Drive:

Stonic punches above its weight, with cargo space for four, as well as enough room for four boys on a weekend away.

Taller folk don’t fit in the back for any great distance. Earlier in the year, we spent a cold autumn night driving to the Hunter Valley, and Stonic managed very positive comments from the occupants.

Some of the graded dirt roads Rest are a challenge in the wet, but the front wheel drive Stonic managed the muddier bits with aplomb. We spent 2 hours each way, and save for complaints about the music, all was joyous.

Most comments surrounded the quietness of the cabin. Max even said the ride was like a limo. Granted, Max hasn’t been in a lot of limos, but this is what he thought it would be like so that has to be worth something right?

Stonic’s modest performance makes it a perfect starter car, second car, or one for a grey nomad who is downsizing.

Since launch, an S has been added to the Sport and GT Line, so this little cutie starts at $23,490 drive away. There is a manual for those who have a spare hand, and an automatic on the pov models. The GT Line sprting a 7-speed DCT (dual clutch transmission). This type of automatic gives snappier changes, eschewing the blancmange that is the CVT. I mention that, because for me, it is the Achilles heel of the Seltos. Those hateful things should be in the bin where they belong.

I loved Stonic. It was cute and cuddly, but above all is cheap with a 7 year warranty.

Kia Stonic Pricing