The impressive Kia Stonic offers a great alternative.
Here’s another entrant into the competitive small SUV segment though the Kia Stonic does enough to stand out from the crowd.
Indeed, it’s the firm’s first creation for the B-segment and is based on the new Rio supermini platform (both models are built alongside each other in Korea).
The new model will feature five versions with two trims and three choices of engine and prices will range from £16,295 to £20,495.
Engines for the new Kia Stonic
Engines for the new Kia Stonic include a 1.4 litre multipoint injection petrol engine producing 98 bhp and another petrol unit with 1.0 litre T- GDi producing 118 bhp. The diesel choice is a 1.6 litre CRDI turbocharged unit producing 108 bhp.
The engines are coupled to a six speed manual box along with a stop start system to help boost economy.
Kia Stonic is well-placed to enjoy big sales
The market for small SUV’s is likely to boom, and the Kia Stonic is well-placed to enjoy big sales.
Indeed Kia says it will sell 70,000 Stonic models across Europe next year which will increase to 100,000 every year – with the UK accounting for 10% of the sales.
There’s a big reason why car manufacturers are moving into the segment with sales rocketing by 50% since 2014 and looking set to grow by another 40% over the coming three years.
That’s because buyers are switching from small MPV’s, superminis and three door compact hatchbacks in favour of smaller SUVs such as the Stonic.
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The Kia Stonic will only be available in front wheel drive since few buyers opt for all wheel drive versions in this sector.
To help shift sales, there’s a lot of equipment, including active safety features such as vehicle stability management and electronic stability control fitted as standard.
All models will also have hill start assist, cornering brake control and straight-line stability. Some models will have autonomous emergency braking and also lane departure warning.
The all-new Kia Stonic goes on sale this month and is worth a closer look for those who are interested in small SUV’s.