More technological, efficient and, even with an ECO label, this is the new KIA Stonic

Miguel Lorente 19 November 2020 3 min.

Thanks to the new 1.0 T-GDi engines, the new KIA Stonic is sold as a mild-hybrid, which allows it to display the DGT’s ECO sticker

Presented in 2018, the new KIA Stonic is the technological evolution, rather than a mere restyling or cosmetic refresh of a car that set precedents.

Based on a design inspired by the most adventurous off-road vehicles and adapted to a compact architecture, the 2021 Kia Stonic represents a true evolution, above all in terms of the technology applied to its powertrains, which now, for the most part, allow this model to display the ECO label.

The new KIA Stonic joins the discreet revolution

In fact, in terms of styling, the changes are light and subtle, focusing on a revision of the front light clusters, which are now based on illumination through the installation of LED diodes.

In addition to this change, two new body colours are added, offering a wide level of customisation with up to 20 different combinations that can be matched, for example, with the two new wheel sets, both 16-inch alloy wheels.

New engines for the 2021 KIA Stonic

But where the new KIA Stonic truly undergoes a revision and evolution is in its range of engines, which finally removes diesel as a fuel option in favour of petrol exclusively.

As a result, a naturally aspirated 1.2 DPi engine producing 84 CV is offered as the base and entry point to the range, which in its Concept trim starts from €16,458 for the cheapest KIA Stonic.

Now, regarding the new 1.0 T-GDi unit, it should be noted that, despite keeping the same name as the outgoing version, this newly developed engine comes from KIA’s Smartstream engine generation and technology.

The new KIA Stonic 1.0 T-GDi engine, whether the less powerful 100 CV or the more powerful 120 CV, is also paired with a 48 V light hybrid system and, therefore, is qualified to be approved and carry the DGT’s ECO label.

To improve fuel efficiency, this engine is paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox but also with the new iMT transmission, intelligent manual transmission.

This manual gearbox with electronically actuated clutch is combined with the mild-hybrid system, and is responsible for managing the shutdown and restart of the combustion engine, taking the role traditionally held by the Stop&Start system.

And when driving with the engine off, the new KIA Stonic can coast up to 125 km/h, which, according to the manufacturer, ensures an unquantified reduction in fuel consumption and, therefore, in greenhouse gas emissions.

Finally, the new engine also features a new continuously variable valve timing system, CVVT, from the English Continuously Variable Valve Duration, which modifies the engine’s behaviour according to its operating speed, depending on how much force is applied to the right pedal.