Kia’s new Stonic is not an SUV that likes to be upstaged, and so for the 2022 model year, the updated compact sports utility vehicle is available with six even brighter and more colourful hues. For the first time, ‘GT-Line’ variants of the Stonic are available to customers. Inside, Kia’s new Phase II UVO Connect telematics system is combined with a new, larger 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, with a navigation system as standard on ‘GT-Line’, ‘Connect’ and ‘GT-Line S’ editions. UVO Connect’s Phase II system provides customers with several new benefits, such as more accurate journey times and ‘last-mile’ navigation assistance, as well as a range of features to enhance connectivity and usability. These can be accessed through an enhanced UVO smartphone app or via the car’s touchscreen. But that’s only part of the story, as the upgraded Stonic now features a range of efficient new ‘Smartstream’ 1.0-litre T-GDi petrol powertrains, with cutting-edge innovations that boost efficiency, including Kia’s new 48-volt mild-hybrid ‘EcoDynamics+’ technology. It is available with the company’s new ‘clutch-by-wire’ intelligent Manual Transmission (iMT) or slick seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission (7DCT).
Safety performance is placed very high on the agenda, with ‘GT-Line’ and ‘GT-Line S’ models featuring Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA) with pedestrian and cyclist detection, Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS), Driver Attention Warning (DAW) and High Beam Assist (HBA), with ‘GT-Line S’ versions additionally featuring Blind Spot Collision Warning (BCW) and Intelligent Speed Limit Assist (ISLA), with DCT editions also boasting Blind Spot Collision Avoidance for the rear of the car. Other advanced technology features include rear parking sensors and a reversing camera system, with ‘GT-Line S’ models also featuring front parking sensors. Other equipment highlights include rear privacy glass, electrically folding door mirrors, automatic air conditioning, an 8-inch touchscreen navigation system with the very latest UVO Connect Phase II telematics software. Android AutoTM and Apple CarPlayTM are both standard equipment. ‘GT-Line’ and ‘GT-Line S’ editions boast the latest engine technology and comes exclusively powered by the 1.0-litre T-GDi petrol engine featuring brand new 48-volt mild hybrid technology. The 118bhp powerplant is mated to either a six-speed intelligent Manual Transmission or seven-speed automatic Dual Clutch Transmission and develops 172Nm of torque.
The Stonic range for 2022 has been reprofiled, with the line-up kicking off with ‘2’ specification, before moving up to an eye-catching new ‘GT-Line’ specification, followed by a two-tone ‘Connect’ edition, and ‘GT-Line S’ flagship. The exciting new ‘GT-Line’ and ‘GT-Line S’ models deliver a strong and sporty design, with ‘GT-Line’ front grille, LED headlights and daytime running lights, together with more dynamic front and rear bumpers that integrate a front skid plate and LED fog lamps. ‘GT-Line’ models feature a black rear spoiler with integrated high-mounted brake light, while the ‘GT-Line S’ versions feature a rear spoiler painted in body colour. Unique 17-inch alloy wheels and a ‘GT-Line’ emblem on the rear tailgate completes the exterior makeover. ‘GT-Line’ versions are available in six paint finishes, while the two-tone ‘GT-Line S’ editions are offered in six hues, with a choice of black or yellow roof, depending upon the colour chosen. The sporty ambience is enhanced by a leather D-cut steering wheel with ‘GT-Line’ motif emblazoned upon it and a carbon look crash pad. The black cloth and faux leather seats are embossed with the ‘GT-Line’ logo and feature stitching and piping. The new 8-inch multimedia and navigation system dominates the cabin, and a 4.2-inch colour supervision display is nestled within the instrument cluster.
The new ‘Smartstream’ engine replaces the Stonic’s earlier ‘Kappa’-generation 1.0-litre T-GDi powerplant and is equipped with Continuously Variable Valve Duration (CVVD) technology. CVVD enables the engine to switch seamlessly between different combustion cycles depending on load, maximising efficiency in all driving situations. The Smartstream engine produces the same power as the previous Kappa engine – 99bhp or 118bhp – but enables slightly higher peak torque output, depending on transmission. For instance, the peak torque output from the 118bhp edition with a seven-speed double-clutch transmission (7DCT) is 16 per cent higher at 200Nm. The new EcoDynamics+ powertrain is offered with the 118bhp version of the new engine, with a Drive Mode Select system allowing drivers to customise the driving experience with ‘Eco’, ‘Sport’ and ‘Normal’ modes. EcoDynamics+ models are also available with Kia’s new intelligent Manual Transmission (iMT). The ‘clutch-by-wire’ system contributes to the MHEV system’s greater fuel efficiency and lower CO2 emissions, while retaining the driver engagement of a conventional manual transmission. Instead of a mechanical linkage, the iMT’s clutch is actuated electronically.
The enhancements to the latest Stonic includes the launch of Kia’s brand-new petrol Mild-Hybrid Electric Vehicle (MHEV) ‘EcoDynamics+’ powertrain. It mates a 118bhp 1.0-litre T-GDi (Turbocharged Gasoline Direct injection) ‘Smartstream’ engine with a 48-volt MHEV system, delivering enhanced efficiency by seamlessly harvesting and later releasing energy recovered during slowing down and when braking. A compact 48-volt lithium-ion battery pack combines with the engine’s torque output with electric power and can extend engine ‘off time’ with a new Mild Hybrid Starter Generator (MHSG) unit. The MHSG is connected to the engine’s crankshaft by a belt and switches seamlessly between ‘motor’ and ‘generator’ modes. Under acceleration in ‘motor’ mode, the MHSG provides electric power assistance to help reduce the load on the engine and therefore results in lower emissions. As the car decelerates, the MHSG has the ability to switch to ‘generator’ mode in certain conditions, recuperating energy from the crankshaft to recharge the battery.
