More Expensive, But Sales Are Up! (Kia Stonic 2026 Review)

Has a second facelift fixed the Kia Stonic? Did it need fixing? Maybe not, because it is actually selling more strongly now despite prices going up, but it still trails the Mazda CX-3 in Australia.

The Kia Stonic is the company’s smallest SUV model. It is based on the Rio (no longer on sale), with key rivals being the CX-3, Toyota Yaris Cross and Hyundai Venue. A 1.0-litre turbo petrol three-cylinder engine and dual clutch automatic is now standard with mild hybrid.

Chasing Cars founder Tom Baker reviews the 2026 Kia Stonic GT-Line light SUV to work out what this car does well and what should be improved. There are some surprises!

Time codes:
0:00 - What is the Kia Stonic?
0:25 - Rivals and pricing
0:55 - In this video
1:20 - Interior
3:45 - Back seats
4:32 - Styling
5:35 - Fuel economy test
5:58 - Servicing and warranty
6:26 - Insurance
6:51 - What is the Stonic like to drive?
11:04 - Safety
11:24 - Should you buy the Kia Stonic?

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