TWO months ago, Kia teased the market by announcing the arrival of the Stonic, a few weeks before Toyota released the Corolla Cross and Ford, the Territory. Last week it finally “unboxed’ the Stonic, and promising a vehicle “designed to provide quality mobility for Filipinos.”
Over a livestream launch last Friday, Kia Philippines President Manny Aligada introduced the new Stonic to the local motoring press stirring further excitement as all bets are in for the new compact SUV which is scheduled for release early this October.
The Kia president once again presented an optimistic growth of the automotive sector looking at it being fueled still by SUVs of various sizes. The Stoic’s clear position is evidenced by its introductory pricing– P675K for the entry-level variant LX MT, P785K for the middle-range LX AT and P875K for the top-grade. Aligada caveats that these are are special pre-launch prices only for those who will reserve until the official launch on October 15.
“The Stonic is positioned to meet the demands of the young and active who turn their dreams into reality day-by-day and know how to have fun in the process. The said market belongs to the wide spectrum of adventurous Filipino buyers who do not compromise design and function,” Aligada said in a press statement.
Stonic is a portmanteau of style and iconic which also is the SUV’s catchphrase “Style that is Iconic.” Described by Kia as “a chic crossover, suitable for first-time buyers and trendy car owners who want to showcase their exquisite taste in their vehicle.”
Kia’s chief designer Peter Schreyer says the Stonic’s looks is based on the European Design Language playbook of the Korean carmaker. Manifested in its’ compact features, elegant design, sharp lines and smooth surfaces, the EDL harmonizes with the signature Tiger Nose Grille and the stylish and heavy-duty roof rails at the top of the unit.
Accentuating the looks are the well-positioned projector headlamps and LED daytime running lights (exclusive to the EX variant) in the front fascia. These give proper illumination without distracting incoming drivers. Dimensions are 4,100mm long, 1,735mm wide and 1,532mm high with a 2,570 wheelbase, with standard 60:40 full-fold flat rear seats. Even with the seats up, there is still 325 liters of space for huge hauls on grocery runs or baggage for that quick trip to the beach. A two-tone color option is available on the top-of-the-line variant.
The Stonic is powered by a 1.4 dual CVVT engine matched with either a five-speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission. Power is 95 PS for the manual option and 100 PS for the automatic. The result of this engine-transmission pairing yields to a higher fuel efficiency rating.
The 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system is compatible with both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay–with six audio speakers. Also standard are the rear parking sensor, rearview camera with dynamic guidelines, electronic stability control and hill start assist (all exclusive for the EX variant) The 185-mm ride height clears most obstacles and will cross moderate flooding. Ingress is by a smart entry and ignition from a convenient push start button.
The Stonic, like any other Kia comes with an up to five-year or 160,000-km warranty, as well as with a 24/7 Roadside Assistance free for five years. There are now 34 Kia dealerships four just added and 4 more to come. With the backing of Ayala Corporation, the Kia brand is expected to flourish in the country, with its mix of top features and an excellent price point. — with Raymond B. Tribdino
