Is this the Stonic Kia PH will unveil this year?

MANILA: Speculation has been pretty high that Kia Philippines will be launching the compact crossover Stonic since the teaser photo was released in early July.

Two years after its global debut, an upgraded version has been revealed in the UK. Will this be the one we’re getting?

The facelifted Kia Stonic gets a new "Smartstream" powertrain that uses a new 1.0-liter T-GDi (turbo gas direct injection) engine – totally different from the Kappa-based 1.0-liter T-GDi – with a 48V MHEV (mild hybrid electric vehicle) system that supplements the engine’s torque output with electric power and extends the engine’s "off time" with its new MHSG (mild-hybrid starter-generator) unit.

In ‘motor’ mode the MHSG provides electric power assistance to reduce engine load and emissions. As the car decelerates, the MHSG has the ability under certain conditions to switch to ‘generator’ mode, recuperating energy from the crankshaft to recharge the battery.

It is equipped with Continuously Variable Valve Duration (CVVD) technology that allows the engine to switch seamlessly between different combustion cycles depending on load to maximize efficiency in all driving situations.

Output is 98hp and 118hp, depending on the trim, and maximum torque is 200Nm but will vary depending on the transmission (intelligent Manual Transmission and seven-speed dual clutch transmission).

The powertrain comes with three driving modes: Eco, Sport and Normal.

Non-hybrid options include the 1.0-liter T-GDi and a 1.2-liter with Dual Port Injection technology. Gearbox choices are a six-speed manual transmission, and a seven-speed dual clutch transmission.

Inside is an upgraded eight-inch touchscreen system with Bluetooth multi-connections, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto, plus a higher-resolution 4.2-inch digital display in the instrument cluster.

Safety features include Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA) with pedestrian, vehicle and newly introduced cyclist recognition, Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS), Driver Attention Warning (DAW), Blind-Spot Collision Warning (BCW) and Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist (BCA), Intelligent Speed Limit Assist (ISLA), Smart Cruise Control (SCC), and Lane Following Assist (LFA).

Customers can now choose between nine paint finishes, which includes the new Storm Grey and Azure blue hue, and 22-tone color options.

Photos from Kia

Also read: Kia PH teases two unboxings and targets 4K units in yearend sales