Kia Stonic review

Entry-level ‘Pure’ Stonics start off at a reasonable £21,845 for the straight up 1.0-litre turbocharged three-cylinder. It’s an extra grand if you want the automatic gearbox.

The mid-range ‘GT-Line’ Stonic introduces the mild hybrid powertrain. It starts from £24,645, or again it’s £1k on top with the seven-speed DCT.

The top-spec Stonic GT-Line S with the full bells and whistles starts from £28,345. It’s only available with the mild hybrid and auto ‘box.

If you’re looking at monthly leasing costs, the entry Stonic will cost around £300 a month, while the GT-Line S would set you back about £400 a month.

What’s the difference between kit?

Pure models get 16in alloys, body-coloured bumpers and mirrors, a 4.2in LCD driver display, 12.3in touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, black cloth seats, manual aircon, rear parking sensors and camera, and cruise control. It’s also only available with the 1.0-litre turbo 3cyl – no mild hybrid option here.

GT-Line adds 17in alloys, bespoke bumpers that give a slightly more rugged look, LED headlights, gloss black folding door mirrors with LED indicators, tinted rear windows, black cloth and artificial leather upholstery, auto aircon and… alloy pedals. You also only get the mild hybrid powertrain here.

GT-Line S welcomes a sunroof, the 12.3in full driver’s display (it matches the infotainment display and looks the part), heated steering wheel and front seats, wireless phone charger, ambient lighting, front and rear parking sensors, start/stop button and smart entry, a digital key and the full suite of driver assist gizmos.

I’m far too indecisive to choose. Help me?

Honestly, the base Pure model is your best bet – you’ll appreciate the ride on the smaller wheels, you get all the essential kit as standard, and the mild hybrid powertrain doesn’t justify the extra outlay.

Given Kia’s reputation for reliability and its seven-year warranty, owning a Stonic should be painless. It also offers servicing packages which cover certain renewables over a period for a fixed cost – certainly worth looking into.