29 Oct 2018
[This article was first published on www.torque.com.sg]
The all-new Kia Stonic is an eye-catching and confident compact crossover, and is set to become an important model for Kia in one of the fastest-growing vehicle segments.
The design of the car is striking, yet it is immediately recognisable as a Kia thanks to key signature design elements, such as the "tiger-nose" grille. Designed in Europe, in collaboration with Kia's Korean design studio, the body blends sharp horizontal feature lines with softer sculpted surfaces.
The Stonic's "targa"-style roof enables buyers to choose a two-tone paint finish, inspired by the design of the 2013 Kia Provo concept. It will be available with up to 20 two-tone colour combinations, with a choice of up to five distinctive colours for the roof.
A range of lightweight and downsized petrol motors are available, each optimising driver engagement and driving efficiency. Buyers have the choice of Kia's lightweight 1-litre T-GDI (turbocharged gasoline direct injection) engine, producing 120bhp, as well as 1.25- or 1.4-litre naturally aspirated MPI (multi-point injection) petrol engines.
The Stonic's European-tuned steering and suspension are designed to offer an exciting drive, with immediate handling responses and a stable ride. The car is fitted as standard with Electronic Stability Control and Vehicle Stability Management, ensuring the front-wheel-drive Stonic remains enjoyable and confidence-inspiring to drive in all conditions.
The Stonic's European-designed cabin places technology and ergonomics at its heart, offering buyers as much potential for individuality as the exterior, with a range of vivid colour packs for buyers to choose from.
One of the smartest cabins in its class, it provides owners with infotainment technologies designed to enhance safety, comfort and convenience. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come as standard, bringing seamless smartphone functionality to the touchscreen infotainment system. Like other Kia models, the Stonic is also available with a broad range of features to enhance comfort and convenience, including ventilated front seats, cruise control and keyless entry.
Within its compact exterior dimensions, the Stonic's smart packaging maximises interior space for all occupants. The car offers class-leading shoulder-room and generous leg- and head-room, while the versatile 352-litre (VDA) boot has a two-step boot floor.
The Kia Stonic competes against the Honda HR-V/Vezel, Toyota C-HR, Mazda CX-3, Suzuki Vitara, Nissan Juke and also the Hyundai Kona.
[Source article: www.torque.com.sg/news/kia-stonic-new-compact-crossover-korea]
