We have tested the Kia Stonic in its version 1.0 TGDI MHEV of 120 CV, with DCT change and we tell you not only the good, but two details that should improve.
These are good times for the segment of urban SUVs, which are currently the most demanded models by the majority of buyers. We have had the opportunity to test the Kia Stonic and we tell you 5 reasons to buy it and two to think about it.
As points in favor of the Kia Stonic we could highlight its price compared to the competition or how practical its 352-liter trunk is for a car that is only 4.1 meters long; but we want to go into more specific details that may interest a greater number of drivers.
ECO label
As we have told you at the beginning, the unit that has passed through our hands was equipped with the 120 CV 1.0 TGDI MHEV engine, that is, it has micro-hybrid technology and, therefore, benefits from the DGT ECO Label.
You should know that there is a 100 CV variant that also benefits from this label, but in our opinion it is somewhat lacking in power for use that is not 100% urban and consumption, on the other hand, is the same, so It is worth investing the extra 800 euros that the 120 CV costs (from 22,743 euros).
In addition, there is a 1.2 DPi with 84 hp. Yes, it is cheaper, but it offers less power, consumes more and does not have an ECO label, so it does not seem like such an interesting alternative to us.
Actual consumption of 5.8 liters
And since we are talking about consumption, let me provide you with specific data. In our test, it has spent a real average of 5.8 liters/100 km, when the idyllic data of the WLTP protocol declared by the brand is 5.5 liters. Therefore, a very tight figure and that will mean savings in daily costs.
And at this point we also consider it important to assess that your engine is very willful. We have tested it together with the DCT dual-clutch automatic transmission (available from the Drive finish: 24,262 euros), which represents an extra cost of 1,500 euros and has been rougher than expected.
standard equipment
The Kia Stonic has recently been renewed and one of its main improvements is a much more current and complete factory equipment than the model that was launched in 2018. It now has a 4.2-inch color dashboard.
But the most important thing is that it now has a new multimedia system with an 8-inch touch screen and, above all, wireless connection with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.
7 year warranty
This is something that hasn’t changed, but it remains a key buying argument for Kia. It is clear that it gives buyers extra peace of mind and confidence knowing that they can go to the dealer if a fault arises and not have to deal with it out of their own pocket.
But the good thing about this is not that the guarantee itself is there, but that you really don’t have to use it, because the cars don’t fail. And that is what is becoming clear over the years and with the level of customer satisfaction. This Stonic is no exception.
Spacious interior for its size
In a car belonging to the B segment, the one that has traditionally always collected more sales in Spain, you should never expect scandalous habitability, but it must be recognized that the Kia Stonic offers more legroom than you might imagine. And the headroom is pretty good too.
Specifically, it offers 96 cm of headroom and 65 centimeters from the rear seatback to the front seat, with the latter positioned one meter away from the pedals, which means that it is above the average for its category. Of course, in width it only offers 134 width between the shoulders, so it is better that only two passengers travel in the second row.
Reason to think about it: sailing
Don’t get me wrong, I think it’s formidable that it has a sailing navigation system, that is, the engine is disconnected when there is low acceleration demand and, therefore, fuel is saved. What I think could be improved is that the system does not retain so much to try to recover energy, because it forces you to accelerate again immediately and, basically, that makes you lose efficiency.
Reason to think so: rough cruise control
I admit that it is for spinning very thin. But the difference is in the details: it’s great that it offers an ECO driving mode, but if you have it activated the system should recognize it; and thus, that the speed control adapts its response to it, because it does not and accelerates abruptly in order to maintain the preset speed and, therefore, consumption worsens.
