Kia Stonic review

Kia’s smallest SUV. And sounds like something you’d drink on a long train journey. But the Korean manufacturer says the name is a cheesy mashup of speedy and tonic – we’re not really sure what it’s all supposed to mean, but then Volkswagen managed to splice tiger and iguana for the Tiguan and no one’s too bothered about that.

Anyway, the Stonic is something of a mashup too, a crossover that mixes elements of hatchback and SUV in a compact footprint. It’s a tough area of the market to compete in, simply because there’s so much to choose from. It first arrived in 2017, and is now on its second mid-life facelift, with the latest makeover introducing a bold new look that brings it in line with Kia’s other models.

It certainly... stands out.

The Stonic’s hip design is a largely successful effort. You’d certainly be hard pressed to know it was originally essentially a Rio on stilts, sharing its platform and engines with the supermini, and not only because the Rio no longer exists. If you want a small Kia city car now… it’s a Picanto or nowt. Such is Joe Public’s preference for crossovers and SUVs now. Of which Kia has loads.

And the Stonic needs to stand out, because it’s theoretically up against the likes of the Ford Puma, Renault Captur, Nissan Juke, Peugeot 2008, Seat Arona, Skoda Kamiq, VW T-Roc… the list goes on and on. None of those get a seven-year warranty like the Kia though... 

What are my engine options?

Still just the one turbocharged 1.0-litre 3cyl engine, in 98bhp or 113bhp tunes. The latter adds a 48V mild hybrid boost, with some trick tech to cut fuel consumption. Gearbox choice in either power output comes down to a six-speed manual or a seven-speed dual-clutch auto.

While that might not sound a lot of power, it’s plenty for mundane tasks – school run, supermarket shop etc – which it’ll manage without too much fuss. Its supermini roots shine through beyond that though – and beware the slightly firm ride on the bigger alloys.

Is the interior similarly basic?

This is where Kia's made the most effort actually, with a new steering wheel, updated dashboard design and wholesale technology changes. It feels a lot more premium in here than it used to.

All models now get a panoramic dual display layout, with top-spec trims getting matching 12.3in digital dials and touchscreen displays. Underneath that you’ll find Kia’s ‘Multimode Touch Display’, essentially a dedicated panel that allows you to toggle between infotainment menus and climate settings. Neat.

Kia has designed it all to be intuitive and easy to operate, while remaining competent and pragmatic. Not exactly words to set your trousers on fire, but at a certain age fitness for purpose is its own source of invigoration.

That said, it doesn’t offer acres of space in the back and the material quality feels cheap in places. Dang and blast.

How much is one of these, then?

Prices start at just shy of £22k. It’s also lower on the price scale compared to those rivals mentioned earlier, though steady as you go through the trims – you’re looking at a starting figure of just over £28k for top-spec versions. Which is a lot for something this dinky.

The Stonic has always been a likeable car, with its second facelift adding a touch of sparkle to its design and introducing a more upmarket interior. Does it do enough to stand out in a packed segment? Probably not – it can’t just be us that forgot this thing even existed. But then again its rarity might stand in its favour...

And its most recent glow up undoubtedly lifts its appeal. It’s the best looking version yet without a doubt, while the cabin also reaps rewards even if the cost-cutting is still evident in places. It otherwise drives as well as it needs to (steer clear of the bigger alloys if you can), and it’s priced well too.

An inoffensive companion that gets more right than it gets wrong. Just don't expect it to knock your socks off.