2018 Kia Stonic

[FiestaST]

The first pictures of the car have leaked online ahead of the official launch later today. Pretty much sister car to the recently unveiled Kona.

https://mybroadband.co.za/vb/showthread.php/893690-2018-Hyundai-Kona

Lets see if this one comes to SA.


Kia Stonic: first pictures of new small SUV leaked online

Spanish website leaks images of Kia's upcoming small SUV; it’s expected to cost from around £15,000

The Kia Stonic small SUV is due to go on sale before the end of the year, priced to compete with its arch-rival, the Nissan Juke, which costs from £14,590. The first pictures of the car have leaked online ahead of the official launch later today.

The leaked images of the B-SUV machine appeared on Spanish website Autodato. They confirm the Stonic takes styling cues from the Kia Rio hatchback. There is also a similarity with the similarly sized Hyundai Kona, which was launched by Kia's sister brand last week.

Pitched directly at the big-selling Juke, the Stonic, which is closely related to the upcoming Hyundai Kona small SUV, is due to be revealed at the Frankfurt motor show in September.

It will go on sale in October, with prices and specs to be confirmed nearer to that time. It’s tipped to share engines with the Rio family hatchback, given that the two car use the same platform.

This means 1.0-litre three-cylinder, 1.25-litre and 1.4-litre four-cylinder petrol engines, and a 1.4-litre diesel for higher-end cars, and specs ranging from entry-level 1 to range-topping 3 and GT-Line cars.

Kia claims that the Stonic offers a level of customisation options unprecedented on any Kia model before it, on both the interior and exterior. Design sketches released by Kia reveal the car’s chunky, Rio-inspired look and intricate rear light clusters.

The front-end design is far removed from that of the Sportage, suggesting a different aesthetic direction for the brand’s future model. Small SUVs are now a key market for volume car makers, so it’s likely that the Stonic will become one of Kia’s best-sellers when launched in October.

The Stonic, the name of which was unearthed by Autocar in trademark filings back in January, won’t be available four-wheel drive anywhere in its range, despite its position as a more serious SUV than rivals’ soft-roaders.

https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-news/...ic-first-pictures-new-small-suv-leaked-online

 

[Drifter]

Wonder why this is not getting the 1.6 GDi engine.

 

[bluepoole]

Now this I like - the general idea of the Kona but with "normal" size headlights...not a fan of those thin headlights of the Kona.

Pity it won't get the 1.6T like the sister model but hopefully the 1.0T will be on the cards later on.

 

[FiestaST]

Officially announced. Much much more neutral looking than the Kona:

The all-new Kia Stonic is an eye-catching and confident compact crossover, and is set to become an important conquest model for Kia in one of Europe's newest and fastest-growing vehicle segments.

The B-SUV segment currently accounts for 1.1 million new car sales in Europe each year - around seven per cent of the market - and is forecast to expand to more than two million annual sales by 2020.

Michael Cole, Chief Operating Officer of Kia Motors Europe, comments: "The Kia Stonic will be one of the most compelling new cars in this rapidly-expanding class, backed by Kia's unique warranty, and the brand's reputation for reliability, quality and contemporary design. As the segment expands, the Stonic looks set to become one of our best-selling cars. By volume, the B-SUV market is expected to overtake the C-SUV segment by 2020, when more than one in ten new cars sold in Europe will be from the Stonic's segment. The B-SUV segment attracts buyers from across the spectrum, with 21 per cent of all customers upsizing from a supermini, and another 15 per cent downsizing from their family hatchbacks. Cars like the Stonic also appeal to those looking to replace their compact MPVs."

The design of the car is one of the brand's most striking to date, yet it is immediately recognisable as a Kia thanks to key signature design elements, such as the 'tiger-nose' grille. Designed in Europe, in collaboration with Kia's Korean design studio, the body blends sharp horizontal feature lines with softer sculpted surfaces. Induviduality is important to many customers in the B-SUV segment, and the Stonic's 'Targa'-style roof enables buyers to choose a two-tone paint finish, inspired by the design of the 2013 Kia Provo concept. It will be available in Europe with up to 20 two-tone colour combinations, with a choice of up to five distinctive colours for the roof.

A range of lightweight, downsized, turbocharged petrol and diesel engines are available, each paired with a manual transmission, maximising driver engagement and efficiency. Buyers have the choice of Kia's lightweight 1.0-litre T-GDI (turbocharged gasoline direct injection) engine, producing 120 ps, as well as 1.25- or 1.4-litre naturally-aspirated MPI (multi-point injection) petrol engines. An efficient 1.6-litre diesel engine completes the range, offering the lowest emissions in the line-up.

https://www.netcarshow.com/kia/2018-stonic/

 

[FiestaST]

[video=youtube_share;2L0ikxZ8DXo]https://youtu.be/2L0ikxZ8DXo[/video]

 

[FiestaST]

New Kia Stonic B-segment crossover breaks cover

The Stonic, which was teased by Kia just two weeks ago, has been officially revealed as a B-segment crossover to compete with the likes of the Renault Captur, Ford EcoSport, Toyota C-HR and Mazda CX-3.

The newcomer will share its platform with the recently revealed Hyundai Kona. That platform is composed partly of advanced high-strength steel, which the Korean automaker says makes it both strong and light, ensuring driving confidence and comfort.

The Kia Stonic features quite a bold design, borrowing styling cues from the Rio and Sportage. The front incorporates the latest interpretation of the brand’s signature tiger-nose grille as well as a scuff plate at the lower end of the bumper. Other quirks include the “targa-style” (Kia’s words, not ours) roof, which adopts a two-tone colour scheme.

The interior draws strong inspiration from other Kia models as well. Inside, you’ll find a leather-wrapped steering wheel and a touchscreen infotainment system. The cabin also adopts a dual-tone colour scheme.

As far as engine options are concerned, the Stonic will be available with the brand’s familiar naturally aspirated 1,25- and 1,4 four-cylinder mills, a turbocharged 1,0-litre three-cylinder and a 1,6-litre turbodiesel.

Kia claims that the Stonic offers class-leading interior space as well as a 352-litre boot.

As we found out after the Stonic’s initial teaser dropped, Kia Motors South Africa is unable to confirm plans for a local release at this early stage, although the local arm says it will “most definitely consider it” should it be able to bring in the vehicle at a competitive price.

http://www.carmag.co.za/news_post/new-kia-stonic-b-segment-crossover-breaks-cover/

 

[FiestaST]

Kia reveals Juke-rivalling Stonic

Kia is taking a more direct stab at the heart of the compact crossover market with this brand new product called the Stonic.

Although it’s likely to compete in the same space as the Soul, the Stonic won’t replace Kia’s hip-to-be-square B-segment crossover, but it is likely to become more popular in markets where buyers prefer a sleeker design.

Styled in Europe and largely aimed at that market, the new crossover is based on the latest Rio, but has a raised stance, completely unique sheetmetal and a slightly bigger boot, holding 352 litres versus 325.

The biggest talking point, from a design point of view, will be the split contrast roof colour scheme that creates a ‘Targa-like’ illusion and allows buyers to choose between 20 different two-tone paint combinations.

Powering the front wheels, depending on the market in question, is the familiar selection of petrol and diesel engines, including 1.25-litre and 1.4-litre normally aspirated petrols, a 1-litre direct injection turbopetrol and 1.6-litre turbodiesel.

The suspension and steering, says Kia, have been tuned in line with European tastes.

Much the same story with the cabin design, which is closely related to the Rio’s inner quarters, just with funkier colour options.

The command centre is a high-mounted touchscreen infotainment system, fitted as standard with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality.

Available driver assistance gadgets include Autonomous Emergency Braking with pedestrian recognition and Forward Collision Alert, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, High Beam Assist and Driver Attention Warning.

We’re currently awaiting word on whether the Stonic is destined for South Africa. Watch this space.

http://www.iol.co.za/motoring/latest-launches/kia-reveals-juke-rivalling-stonic-9884811

 

[FiestaST]

Some Live pics

Kia Stonic officially revealed as Nissan Juke rival

A price of £15,000-£16,000 is tipped for what could prove to be one of Kia's best-sellers, as the small SUV segment continues to boom

https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-news/new-cars/kia-stonic-officially-revealed-nissan-juke-rival

 

[FiestaST]

Kia Venga unlikely to be replaced after current generation

Another small MPV dies as the SUV segment grows; Kia has confirmed that the Venga will not be replaced

Kia is unlikely to replace its Venga mini-MPV following the continued rise in popularity of small SUVs, including its own new Stonic.

MPV segments have been in decline for some time, with many manufacturers choosing to replace MPVs with SUVs.

The Stonic is not a replacement for the Venga, but Kia's European COO Michael Cole said the Stonic's arrival made it "difficult to justify a next generation" for the Venga.

"The MPV segment is in constant decline," said Cole. "As it has shrunk and people have come out, it's actually created an opportunity for us and sales are going fine for us now.

"But there's no final decision on a replacement. It will run for a couple more years, we might limit production, but it'll get very difficult. People are getting what they want in a CUV (crossover utility vehicle) or an SUV instead of an MPV."

Nissan last year confirmed that the Note small MPV would not continue, and would be indirectly replaced by the new Micra.

https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-news/new-cars/kia-venga-unlikely-be-replaced-after-current-generation

 

[FiestaST]

[video=youtube_share;kwmpsE9XE_0]https://youtu.be/kwmpsE9XE_0[/video]

 

[FiestaST]

Coming to South Africa?

Much like Hyundai's Kona, the Kia Stonic's arrival depends heavily on the exchange rate and right-hand drive production. Like we said with the Hyundai Kona, "(Kona) has been earmarked for right-hand-drive markets (Australia will receive the Kona by September), but not the Africa-Middle East region (under which South Africa falls) – at least not yet. However, considering how briskly the local compact family car segment is growing, we'd think it could fare better (sales-wise) than the upcoming hatchback". We'll keep you posted if we hear more details about the new Kia Stonic.

http://www.cars.co.za/motoring_news/kia-stonic-baby-suv-unveiled/43564/

 

[FiestaST]

 

[FiestaST]

Kia crosses over with sporty new Stonic

Strange that Kia, a brand known for its small cars, hasn’t been playing in the super popular sub-compact SUV category. But it is now, with the Stonic crossover - a new B-segment sized hatchback on stilts that’s on display at this week’s Frankfurt show.

It’s based on a regular Rio platform, but re-styled with all the obligatory skidplates, wheel arch trims and roof rails found in the Renault Captur, Nissan Juke and Mazda CX-3 leagues. Like the Rio, the Stonic is front-wheel drive only, but a raised ride height and elevated seating position should go down well with buyers in the growing pavement-hopper category.

Customisation is key here, and with nine body and five roof colours there are 20 different two-tone paint jobs possible. Interior colour is black on black as standard, but buyers can pick from four optional colour packs - each unlocking unique combinations of contrast upholstery stitching and various other coloured cabin highlights. A range of wheel designs in either 15 or 17 inch sizes is also possible.

An 18cm touchscreen compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is included as standard, but navigation is an optional extra. Other niceties include a heated steering wheel and seats, cruise control, rain-sensing wipers, auto-dipping headlights and a rear-view camera.

Because the Stonic’s petrol tank is positioned underneath the back seat, the boot gets a two-tier floor system with a maximum 352 litre capacity - which expands to 1155 litres with the rear seats folded. The front centre console was designed to hold large smartphones such as the iPhone7 Plus and Samsung Galaxy Note, while the cubby hole is big enough to stow tablet devices. There’s even more storage in the driver’s sliding armrest.

When it goes on sale in Europe later in 2017, the Stonic will come with a choice of four engines, all paired with manual transmissions. Base models will employ Kia’s well-known 1.2 and 1.4-litre naturally aspirated MPI units with 62 and 74kW respectively, while a range-topper will get the brand’s new one-litre turbo T-GDI three cylinder with 88kW and 172Nm. There’s also a 1.6-litre turbodiesel option with 81kW and 260Nm. A less powerful one-litre with 74kW and a re-developed dual-clutch autobox are expected to come in sometime in 2018.

A full complement of safety gear includes up to six airbags (depending on market), forward collision avoidance with pedestrian recognition, lane keep assist, and blind spot, rear cross-traffic, lane departure and driver attention warning systems.

Kia says extra effort has been made to make the Stonic a sporty handler, and besides body roll minimising suspension setups, there’s also torque vectoring, cornering brake control and a straight line stability system to keep the crossover tracking true under heavy braking. Hill start assist is also included.

Kia South Africa says the Stonic is unconfirmed for our market, but is under consideration for local release in 2018.

https://www.iol.co.za/motoring/latest-launches/kia-crosses-over-with-sporty-new-stonic-11197444

 

[FiestaST]

Kia Stonic priced from £16,295

Stonic could prove to be one of Kia's best-sellers; it undercuts the Nissan Juke by around £600

The Kia Stonic is Kia’s striking entry into the increasingly populous SUV segment occupied by the long-established Nissan Juke and the more recent Renault Captur, Peugeot 2008 and Vauxhall Mokka X.

Costing from £16,295 when it goes on sale on 23 October, following its showing at the Frankfurt motor show, the Stonic majors on styling, electronic driver aids and has a wider choice of colours than you'll find on other Kia models, including two-tone options and several bold interior choices. A 7.0in infotainment touchscreen is standard, with options for TomTom sat-nav and a wide variety of apps.

This entry-level price undercuts that of the Nissan Juke by around £600. Range-topping First Edition Stonics, with a 1.6-litre diesel engine, cost from £20,495. The entry-level car, the £16,295 1.4-litre petrol in 2 specification, gets 17in alloys, air conditioning, rear parking sensors, automatic lights and electric, heated door mirrors. Autonomous emergency braking (AEB) is optional on entry-level Stonics but standard higher up the range.

https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-news/new-cars/kia-stonic-priced-£16295

 

[FiestaST]

Kia Stonic 1.0 T-GDi 2 2017 review

Should I buy one?

You’d have thought that with a potential bestseller on its hands, Kia might have included safety-conscious lane keeping assist and automatic emergency braking technology on the Stonic, but these are only standard on higher-spec cars and optional on the 2 trim we’ve tried. Safety-conscious buyers will have to opt for it. Kia insists it’s to keep costs down, as they’re relatively expensive systems for a lower-price car. There are only the 2 spec and the more expensive First Edition available at launch.

You’re statistically more likely to go for a petrol-engined Stonic - 60% of buyers will go petrol, according to Kia - with the 1.0-litre turbocharged three-cylinder-engined Stonic being the overwhelming favourite. Just 8% are expected to go for the entry-level 1.4-litre car.

This is exactly how it should be, though; the frugal 1.6-litre diesel engine is rather loud under moderate to hard acceleration and the 1.4-litre has to be worked hard for a little power. The 1.0-litre’s thrust is more than enough and what little engine noise it has isn’t an offensive sound. The car feels lighter on its feet from the smaller powerplant, too.

Not a radical change in the segment, then, but the class average moves up a grade. There’s a little while to go before a small SUV can be called a driver’s car, though.

Kia Stonic 1.0 T-GDi 2

Where Berlin, Germany; On sale 23 October; Price £17,000 (est); Engine 1582cc, diesel; Power 108bhp at 4000rpm; Torque 192lb ft at 1500-2750rpm; Gearbox 6-spd manual; Kerbweight 1255kg; Top speed 115mph; 0-60mph 10.9sec; Fuel economy 67.3mpg; CO2 rating 109g/km; Rivals Ford Ecosport, Renault Captur, Hyundai Kona

https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-review/kia/stonic/first-drives/kia-stonic-10-t-gdi-2-2017-review

 

[FiestaST]

 

[FiestaST]

Motor1 UK first drive

[video=youtube_share;ztZxQfQ1wLI]https://youtu.be/ztZxQfQ1wLI[/video]

 

[FiestaST]

Kia Stonic on sale now from £16,295

Stonic could prove to be one of Kia's best-sellers; it undercuts the Nissan Juke by around £600

Order books for the new Kia Stonic have opened, with prices starting at £16,295 for the compact SUV Nissan Juke rival.

The striking five-door also goes up against the Renault Captur, Peugeot 2008 and Vauxhall Mokka X, majoring on styling, electronic driver aids and has a wider choice of colours than you'll find on other Kia models, including two-tone options and several bold interior choices. A 7.0in infotainment touchscreen is standard, with options for TomTom sat-nav and a wide variety of apps.

This entry-level price undercuts that of the Nissan Juke by around £600. Range-topping First Edition Stonics, with a 1.6-litre diesel engine, cost from £20,495. The entry-level car, the £16,295 1.4-litre petrol in 2 specification, gets 17in alloys, air conditioning, rear parking sensors, automatic lights and electric, heated door mirrors. Autonomous emergency braking (AEB) is optional on entry-level Stonics but standard higher up the range.

https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-news/new-cars/kia-stonic-sale-now-£16295

 

[FiestaST]

Carbuyer review

[video=youtube_share;CW3Q-73q1hQ]https://youtu.be/CW3Q-73q1hQ[/video]

 

[FiestaST]

Carwow review

[video=youtube_share;Zy1QII3-YEI]https://youtu.be/Zy1QII3-YEI[/video]