The Kia Stonic has been around since its Frankfurt debut some nine years ago, a crossover in the B segment of the market and its name is derived from the word speedy. I find that would be buyers might overlook the Stonic, which they might just regret and okay with a number of new EVs arriving in the market from Kia, the media interest is largely focussed in that direction. So what does the Stonic offer, an alternative for those and there are many who do not wish to take to the electric highway and the good news the 2026 Stonic is better than ever and I have had the opportunity to drive one and I must say right away, it represents value for money. In its latest guise it has features from cars which cost a good deal more and it has looks that should please. No surprise a number of tech items and the latest connectivity. Fewer and fewer petrol and diesel cars that come my way to test, so it was refreshing to put this Kia through its paces and it comes with a choice of turbocharged petrol engines with and without 48V mild-hybrid technology.
The one litre T-GDi provides a useful 98bhp, or customers can opt for an 113bhp 48V mild-hybrid version and both powertrains are available with either a six-speed manual transmission or a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. Many months have passed since I have driven a car with a manual transmission, so I opted to try the entry model to the Stonic range and I found the six speed slick in operation. Many of my friends who tend to purchase cars of should I say a sporty nature yearn for a car with a manual transmission; I have to be honest in the main the current automatic transmissions work perfectly and mostly offer better fuel figures. Still there is something about having that gearstick to hand, maybe it’s a feeling of control. Having already stated that this is the 2026 Stonic, Kia call it a midterm refresh; the overall length has been extended by 25mm due to its resculpted front and rear bumpers. There are changes to the nose, including Kia’s ‘star map’ signature lighting, redesigned ‘tiger nose’ grille, and reprofiled front wings. This fresh up look continues through to the rear, with a new tailgate layout, taillight signature, updated skid plate, and a cleaner rear bumper design.
I have always maintained that wheel design is key to how a vehicle looks and Kia has introduced new wheel options across the range, including 16 and 17inch alloy wheels. Many years past I recall Audi made their A3 available with plain steel wheels and it took so much away from the overall look of the car. Exterior colours have been updated and extended for the Stonic for 2026, with Adventurous Green and Yacht Blue now available for the first time, these paint finishes also found on the Picanto and EV6. Moving to the interior and like all Kia models, you get a lot for your money, often with this South Korean carmaker they are most generous. Most enjoy tech and there are two high resolution 12.3 inch screens which merge infotainment and vehicle information, and set a new benchmark on the ‘GT-Line S’ grade. Summing up with a choice of grades, the Stonic still maintains to offer not only a satisfying drive but ease on the wallet.
Ian Lynas