The Kia Stonic gets updated with ECO versions and new trim levels

Since late 2017, the Kia Stonic has become the third best-selling model in Kia, behind the Ceed and Sportage, with annual sales in Spain of between 9,000 and 9,500 units. It is clear that the B-SUV segment has been a success in Europe, and proof of this is that 28 new models have emerged in a short space of time.

Its exterior dimensions in relation to interior space are very appealing, as they cover a wide range of needs, both urban and extra-urban, while its powertrains, which are steadily moving towards electrification as mild hybrids or, in some cases, as plug-in hybrids and even gas-powered. What is clearly declining is the proportion of diesel engines in this segment, which has fallen sharply over the last two years.

Today, the B-SUV segment already accounts for 22 percent of total market sales, with more than 220,000 units sold in 2019 and, according to surveys, it will be the fastest-growing segment in the coming years.

Very light changes

The exterior dimensions do not vary from the previous edition of the model, launched four years ago. That is, it measures 4.16 m in length and 1.76 m in width, with a wheelbase of 2.58 metres. However, small modifications have been introduced that enhance and highlight the styling of this innovative SUV. Thus, the new range features redesigned light clusters with full LED projectors, new-design fog lights, or 16-inch alloy wheels with a new design.

In addition to the Concept and Drive trim levels, the GT Line version, with a sportier look, is a new addition to the model, featuring a new-format grille, air intakes in the front bumper, twin exhaust outlets, specific bumpers, black-painted door mirrors, and 17-inch alloy wheels. New body colours are also available, seven of them monotone and eight two-tone.

Inside, it features a repositioned dashboard, a new instrument panel and an 8-inch central screen with more functions, including multi-device Bluetooth UVO Connect with wireless connectivity to Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and driver-assistance apps such as up-to-date traffic information, weather, fuel prices and parking options.

A smartphone app is also available for downloading, which allows you to check some data on the car’s status, and it has a specific function for the final leg of navigation on foot. Among the driving aids and safety systems it can include, the active cruise control with lane-keeping assist, hill-start assist, blind-spot detection, emergency braking, and parking assistant stand out, among others.

New engines

Apart from the EcoDynamics+ versions, the range is also offered with a new version of the 1.2-litre DPi naturally aspirated engine producing 84 CV, without hybridisation. The 1.0-litre T-GDi engine producing 100 CV is available with a six-speed manual gearbox, replacing the previous five-speed, or with the 7DCT dual-clutch gearbox.

The EcoDynamics+ mild-hybrid engine uses 48V technology to improve efficiency by applying electrical energy either during acceleration or when recovering energy under braking. It incorporates a 48 V lithium-ion polymer battery, which powers a starter-generator motor unit connected to the crankshaft by a belt, capable of imperceptibly switching between assist and recovery modes. It delivers the same power as the previous Kappa engine, but with slightly higher maximum torque depending on the transmission. The maximum torque of the 120 CV versions with 7DCT gearbox is 200 Nm.

It is offered in the 100 CV and 120 CV versions with Eco, Normal and Sport drive modes, and is available with the iMT manual gearbox. Instead of a mechanical coupling, the clutch is operated electronically and allows the engine to be switched off when the car is about to stop. Both gearboxes, iMT and 7DCT, can operate in “sailing mode” up to a speed of 125 km/h, and the engine restarts automatically as soon as the accelerator, brake or clutch pedal is pressed. The dual-clutch automatic gearbox, available on the 120 CV variant, can be specified for an extra 1,200 euros.

The range starts at 15,844 euros and goes up to 23,900 euros for the top-of-the-range version, GT Line DCT. However, an additional discount of 2,200 euros can be obtained by taking out the brand’s financing plan.

We briefly drove the 100 CV Ecodynamics+ 1.0 T-GDi engine with six-speed manual gearbox and electronic clutch system, whose operation is very pleasant. The automatic stop-start system stands out in particular, being imperceptible to the driver, which allows very low consumption figures (around 6 litres/100 km at legal speeds). The gearbox decouples the engine from the transmission when there is no load on the engine, so that inertia is used and driving is carried out without any noise or vibration.

Technical specifications of this car

CrossoverKIA Stonic7 versions · from 24,210 €