Kia Stonic: Pros and cons

The Kia Stonic is the brand’s entry into the Philippine crossover category. It competes with other nameplates such as the Geely GX3 Pro and the Toyota Raize. 

But what does the Kia Stonic have, which makes it a cut above — or inferior — to its rivals? On that note, we take a look at the pros and cons of the Kia Stonic to help hopeful car shoppers make a better buying decision when choosing their next ride.

Pros

Boasts good looks

The Kia Stonic is undoubtedly a looker.

At its fore is a modern interpretation of the brand’s tiger-nose grille paired with a set of projection-type halogen headlamps, LED daytime running lights, a standard front bumper, and a skid plate.

It also gets body-colored side mirrors with integrated turn signals, body-tone door handles, standard roof rails, and a set of 16-inch alloy wheels shod in 195/60 R16 tires.

The rear end of the Kia Stonic is decorated with a standard rear spoiler, a high-mount stop lamp, and a pair of standard rear combination lamps.

Overall, the looks offered by the Kia Stonic will cause bystanders and onlookers to check the crossover out as it passes by.

Decent interior appointments

For its price, the Kia Stonic offers decent interior appointments.

As an example, the driver is greeted by an instrument panel that comes with analog gauges and a 3.5-inch thin-film transistor LCD screen. It is complemented by an eight-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The infotainment screen also serves as a monitor for the crossover’s rear view camera, which makes it easier for most drivers to get in and out of tight spots.

There are also standard features found inside the cabin of the Kia Stonic. They include a three-spoke polyurethane steering wheel, seats covered in cloth, and a single-zone automatic air conditioning system.

Driving nannies

The Kia Stonic also comes with a handful of driver-assist features such as parking sensors, electronic stability control, and hill-start assist.

Cons

Manual variant could use a bump in power

Powering all grades of the Kia Stonic is a 1.4-liter gasoline engine.

The model mated to a five-speed manual makes only as much as 94 horsepower. On the other hand, the variant paired with a six-speed automatic can put out as much as 99 horses.

On that note, those looking to get more power will have to select a Kia Stonic equipped with an automatic slushbox.

Inadequate rear seating

The Kia Stonic’s strongest suit is definitely not its size. Hence, occupants at the rear might feel a bit cramped at the back.

On that note, it’s best not to pack the rear with three adults as they might have a hard time — especially during long rides.

Final thoughts

The Kia Stonic does have its ups and downs. However, its pros definitely outweigh its cons, which is why many Filipino car buyers include the crossover in their list.

The Kia Stonic has a base price of P835,000.

Photos from Kia Philippines

Also read:

Phenomenal 4: The variants of the Kia Stonic

Kia introduces Stonic Quantum special edition in UK

What’s inside the Kia Stonic