LATER THIS YEAR the compact crossover market is set to heat up with the arrival of yet another new model, the Kia Stonic.
The Stonic is the third, and smallest, of the Kia SUV range and has been previewed in these new design sketches prior to its official debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show.
It is the Korean manufacturer’s smallest crossover to date and is set to go head-to-head with the popular Nissan Juke and Renault Captur, as well as the forthcoming Hyundai Kona from Kia’s sister company.
Kia has suggested that it will be the most customisable car it has released to date, so expect lots of exterior colour and wheel choices along wth interior options. Speaking of which, Kia says that the interior has been designed to maximise ergonomics and space for passengers and a ‘floating’ touchscreen is expected to be the focus of the dashboard, which, of course, will offer the latest smartphone connectivity.
While we haven’t had a close look at the Stonic yet, from these sketches it looks like it will have chunky proportions and a solid appearance and that Kia is continuing its current form for turning out good looking cars – something that is a key element in this highly competitive segment.
For now it is too soon to list the engine choices but Kia is likely to equip the Stonic with the 1.0-litre petrol engine and 1.6-litre diesel that currently power the cee’d hatchback. This would also suggest that the Stonic will only be offered with a front-wheel drive transmission.
The unusual name, according to Kia, is a combination of ‘Speedy’ and ‘Tonic’, in reference to the musical scale.
The Kia Stonic makes its debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September.
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