NEW KIA STONIC HYBRID REVIEW

EV Channels Review

The Kia Stonic receives a facelift, primarily distinguished by the new Kia badge and the addition of a 48-volt mild-hybrid system on most trims. The reviewed '2' trim, however, notably omits the mild-hybrid system and LED lights, positioning it as a budget-friendly option starting under £19,000. While the exterior design remains largely unchanged, the interior offers a solid build with a responsive infotainment system featuring Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, though navigation is reserved for higher trims. The reviewer highlights the lack of soft-touch materials and the presence of blank buttons as drawbacks, particularly on the base model. The driving experience is described as peppy, especially up to 30 mph, with the mild-hybrid system (on other trims) mitigating turbo lag and improving fluidity. Real-world economy figures were disappointing, with the reviewer achieving only 28.3 mpg during a test drive, significantly lower than the expected 40+ mpg. Despite its improvements, the reviewer questions the Stonic's long-term viability within Kia's evolving lineup, especially when compared to newer models.