Kia Stonic review: Style, features, and performance of the sub-compact SUV
The Kia Stonic is a 5-seat subcompact SUV. Its 2024 models start at $22,290 in Australia. It offers a stylish design, advanced tech features, and good fuel economy with a petrol engine from 5.4L/100km to 6.7L/100km.
Pros:
- Bold exterior design
- Competitive Pricing
- Solid driving experience
Cons:
- Limited rear seating space
- Manual variant lacks power
- Underwhelming interiors
What’s new:
- 1.0L turbo replaces 1.4L engine in the recent facelift
Kia's pint-sized dynamo, the Stonic, is jostling for position in the ring of subcompact SUVs. It is a smart choice, blending affordability with style in a fiercely contested segment. However, like any vehicle, it's not without its quirks. Despite its charm, the Stonic does have a couple of chinks in its armour. The cost of servicing can be steep, and some spec gaps might leave you wanting more.
The Stonic has been making a name for itself since its 2021 launch in Australia. It offers a well-rounded package that's hard to ignore. Why is it a compelling choice? Let's find out!
Stonic comes in 5 variants, with the base variant at $22,290 while top variant goes up to $30,790.
| Variant | Starting price | Fuel Efficiency | Fuel Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kia Stonic S 6MT | $22,290* | 6L / 100km | Petrol |
| Kia Stonic S 6AT | $23,790* | 6L / 100km | Petrol |
| Kia Stonic Sport 6MT | $25,290* | 6L / 100km | Petrol |
| Kia Stonic Sport 6AT | $26,790* | 6L / 100km | Petrol |
| Kia Stonic GT-Line 7DCT | $30,790* | 5.4L / 100km | Petrol |
Exteriors
Kia with Stonic has taken a bold approach, and it shows!
- Styling elements
The sculpted hood and wide stance give it a sporty, adventurous look. The little SUV rocks a bold, youthful design that makes a statement on the road. The sculpted hood and wide stance give it a sporty aggression, making it look ready to conquer any adventure. The iconic Kia tiger grille steals the spotlight, complemented by sharp headlights that we personally find aesthetically pleasing! Sharp creases along the body add definition. However, there are some trade-offs to consider. While the design is youthful and exciting, the base model lacks the cool black contrasting roof on higher trims.
- Colour options
Kia offers a vibrant palette of 8 colours, so you can pick a shade that reflects your personality. There's a perfect match for everyone, from sporty blues to head-turning yellows or timeless whites. The flashy options might catch your eye, but in our opinion, the yellow does not translate as well from the brochure to the real world. However, the metallic blue and red options are surefire ways to stand out from the sea of black and grey.
- Wheel design
When it comes to wheel design, the entry-grade Stonic features 15-inch steel wheels, providing a solid foundation for your journeys. Upgrading to the mid-range Sport grades adds a touch of flair with 17-inch alloy wheels, enhancing both the look and performance of the vehicle. However, even though the bigger wheels tend to flatter the design more, they didn't equate to a smoother ride.
Interiors
- Interior layout and space
The Stonic's interior is designed for functionality, featuring a clean, modern layout with comfortable seats and all the necessary tech features to keep you connected while on the move. Kia prioritised practicality over luxury, opting for mostly hard plastics throughout the cabin. While this choice gives the interior a more budget-friendly feel, it also enhances durability and resistance to daily wear and tear. Additionally, the car includes interior lights with delay in both the front and rear. While the interior may not be luxurious, it is intentionally designed to be practical and durable, making it suitable for daily use.
- Comfort and ergonomics
The Stonic's interior offers a blend of comfort and functionality. Upfront, the adjustable seat height and steering wheel-make finding a comfortable driving position easy. The front seats, while decent, may not offer the same level of comfort as some rivals, especially for taller individuals who may find the lower back and under-thigh support limiting. However, the upholstery, featuring leatherette bolsters and cloth inserts, is designed for comfort and durability. The funky design pattern adds a touch of style, and the flat-bottomed GT-Line steering wheel feels great to hold.
In the second row, the Stonic is accommodating, with enough space for average-sized adults to sit comfortably behind others of similar size. It's a proper four-seater, with the fifth seat in the centre best left for emergencies. Ample headroom and legroom make it suitable for daily commutes or weekend getaways. However, legroom in the rear feels snug for adults on longer trips.
While the Kia Stonic's interior falls short of its premium exterior, with hard plastics used throughout, it is designed for user-friendliness. Every button and knob is placed intuitively for easy access, ensuring you won't have to fumble for controls. Overall, the Stonic's interior offers functionality and comfort, making it a practical choice for daily use.
- Boot
Kia has maximised Stonic's interior cargo space. With 332 to 352 litres of trunk space, which expands to 1,135 to 1,155 litres with the seats folded down, it offers a decent amount of room. However, this may fall short for those constantly on the move or families needing ample cargo space.
One noticeable absence is an adjustable floor to even the step between the boot floor and seat backs, despite cutouts suggesting provision for one. Additionally, there's a space-saver spare wheel under the boot floor, but no additional storage space is provided.
Technology and infotainment
- Infotainment System
As with any car, the Kia Stonic's 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system is the central hub for entertainment and navigation. The user-friendly interface allows easy access to music, navigation, and other features with a tap or a swipe. The system supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, providing seamless smartphone integration for accessing your favourite apps and features using voice commands or touch controls.
- Connectivity Options
The Stonic offers a range of connectivity options to keep you connected while on the move. It supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, providing seamless smartphone integration for accessing your favourite apps and features using voice commands or touch controls. Additionally, the car includes USB ports in the front and rear and a 12V power outlet, providing convenient charging options for all your devices during long journeys.
- Navigation System
The car has a comprehensive navigation system, including Kia's connected services (available on all trims except the base model), including navigation and a "find my car" feature. This feature was particularly useful during last year's Melbourne Cup, helping us easily locate our car in the crowded event parking lot!
While the Stonic offers a range of tech features, we think it could be improved by offering the full suite of features and technology available in overseas markets. This would make the Stonic more competitive in its class, especially considering the availability of extra driver assistance systems. Despite this, the Stonic remains a solid choice for those looking for a compact SUV.
Performance and engine
The ride quality is noticeably rigid, especially when equipped with the 17-inch wheels, resulting in occasional discomfort when encountering bumps. Kia has placed a higher emphasis on minimising body roll rather than prioritising ride comfort, which is a common characteristic among SUVs.
- Engine Specifications
| Variant | Power | Torque | Engine Configuration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kia Stonic S 6MT | 74kW | 133Nm | 1.4-litre four-cylinder petrol |
| Kia Stonic S 6AT | 74kW | 133Nm | 1.4-litre four-cylinder petrol |
| Kia Stonic Sport 6MT | 74kW | 133Nm | 1.4-litre four-cylinder petrol |
| Kia Stonic Sport 6AT | 74kW | 133Nm | 1.4-litre four-cylinder petrol |
| Kia Stonic GT-Line 7DCT | 74kW | 172Nm | 1.0-litre three-cylinder turbo petrol |
- Transmission and Drive System
The Kia Stonic offers two engine options, depending on the grade. The entry-grade S and mid-range Sport feature a 1.4-litre four-cylinder petrol engine producing 74kW and 133Nm. This engine can be paired with a six-speed automatic transmission or a six-speed manual gearbox. In contrast, the top-of-the-range GT-Line boasts a 1.0-litre three-cylinder turbo petrol engine generating 74kW and 172Nm, paired with a sporty seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The 1.0L T-GDI petrol engine is available on the GT-Line grade for those seeking turbocharged performance.
- Braking system
Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) enhances the Stonic's braking system by autonomously applying brakes to avoid collisions, improving safety and driver reassurance. While this feature improves safety and provides reassurance, drivers should remain attentive. The 2024 Kia Stonic can tow up to 1000kg. However, without trailer brakes, the maximum load is limited to 750kg if the vehicle is rated for towing at that weight.
- Fuel Economy and Efficiency
The Kia Stonic boasts impressive fuel efficiency, with the GT-Line model consuming just 5.4L/100km and the Sport model 6.7L/100km. This offers savings on fuel costs with each drive. The Stonic offers a smooth ride with easy handling and laid-back acceleration, perfect for everyday trips or casual drives. The seven-speed dual-clutch auto transmission delivers smooth acceleration and efficient gear shifts, contributing to a fuel-efficient driving experience.
- Handling and Driving Dynamics
While the Stonic's handling is competent, with good body control and a comfortable ride, we found its softer suspension setup less engaging. The steering is accurate and progressive, although it is lighter and not as quick as some competitors. The Stonic strikes a good balance between ride comfort and dynamic ability, making it a practical and enjoyable choice for everyday driving.
Safety features
Kia Stonic is a reliable, safe choice. It offers a range of advanced features that provide peace of mind on the road. With its impressive five-star ANCAP safety rating, the Stonic inherits the Rio hatchback's exceptional safety standards, ensuring a secure driving experience for both driver and passengers.
The Stonic has a suite of safety features designed to protect occupants in various driving situations. The Kia Stonic has advanced safety features to ensure a secure driving experience. These include Lane Following Assist (LFA) and Lane Keeping Assist (LKA) to keep the vehicle centred and prevent unintentional lane departure. The Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) system monitors the road for potential collisions and applies the brakes if necessary.
Additionally, the Stonic comes with multiple airbags, Hill Start Assist Control (HAC) to prevent rolling backwards on inclines, and Vehicle Stability Management for optimal braking performance. Rear View Camera and Rear Parking Sensors aid in parking. At the same time, Driver Attention Alert+ with Lead Vehicle Departure Alert enhances overall safety by monitoring the driver's behaviour for signs of fatigue or inattentiveness.
Despite these impressive safety features, it's worth noting that Australian models of the Stonic do not offer blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, or adaptive cruise control like their European counterparts. Thanks to its comprehensive safety suite, we believe that the Kia Stonic is a great option for those looking for a compact SUV with top-notch safety features.
The safety features include the following:
- Lane Following Assist (LFA)
- Lane Keeping Assist (LKA)
- Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB)
- Airbags (driver & front passenger, front side, curtain SRS)
- Hill Start Assist Control (HAC)
- Vehicle Stability Management
- Rear View Camera & Rear Parking Sensors
- Driver Attention Alert+ with Lead Vehicle Departure Alert
Ownership experience
Despite its competitive pricing and warranty, the Stonic has received a user rating of 2.2, indicating some user dissatisfaction.
The Kia Stonic was well-received by owners thanks to its appealing design, good interior features, and useful driver-assist technologies. But we found the manual version lacking power, and people complained that the back seats were tight.
Major strengths:
- The Kia Stonic is generally well-regarded as a good car, offering a more modern and versatile driving experience.
- It is considered a good value in the current market, especially given its SUV classification. Buyers seeking practicality and style often choose it.
- Despite the limited negotiation room in the current market, especially for SUVs, the Stonic offers competitive pricing and attractive features.
- The Stonic provides a good driving experience, responsive handling and a comfortable interior, making it a compelling choice for daily commuting or longer trips.
Major drawbacks:
- The Kia Stonic manual variant could use a boost in power. Its 1.4-litre gasoline engine produces only 94 horsepower, while the automatic variant can produce up to 99 horsepower.
- The Kia Stonic's rear seating is inadequate, with limited space that can be uncomfortable for three adults, especially during long rides.
Maintenance costs and Warranty information
The service costs for the 2024 Kia Stonic vary depending on the engine type and transmission. For the 1.0 T-GDI petrol engine with a 7-speed auto (DCT) transmission, the prices range from $289 for the 1-year/10,000 km interval to $608 for the 6-year/60,000 km interval. For the 1.4L petrol engine with a 6-speed auto or manual transmission, the prices range from $275 for the 1-year/15,000 km interval to $614 for the 4-year/60,000 km interval. These costs cover the specified services and intervals, ensuring the Stonic remains in optimal condition throughout its ownership.
In addition, the Kia Stonic comes with a 7-year/unlimited mileage warranty, providing owners peace of mind.
Verdict
The Kia Stonic stands out in the subcompact SUV segment, offering a blend of affordability and style. Its bold exterior design, practical interior, and an array of tech features make it a compelling choice for buyers. However, it's not without its drawbacks, such as limited rear seating and the need for more power in the manual variant. Despite these issues, the Stonic's overall package, including its competitive pricing, solid driving experience, and comprehensive safety features, makes it a worthy contender.
The Kia Stonic is a 5-seat subcompact SUV. Its 2024 models start at $22,290 in Australia. It offers a stylish design, advanced tech features, and good fuel economy with a petrol engine from 5.4L/100km to 6.7L/100km.
Pros:
- Bold exterior design
- Competitive Pricing
- Solid driving experience
Cons:
- Limited rear seating space
- Manual variant lacks power
- Underwhelming interiors
What’s new:
- 1.0L turbo replaces 1.4L engine in the recent facelift
Kia's pint-sized dynamo, the Stonic, is jostling for position in the ring of subcompact SUVs. It is a smart choice, blending affordability with style in a fiercely contested segment. However, like any vehicle, it's not without its quirks. Despite its charm, the Stonic does have a couple of chinks in its armour. The cost of servicing can be steep, and some spec gaps might leave you wanting more.
The Stonic has been making a name for itself since its 2021 launch in Australia. It offers a well-rounded package that's hard to ignore. Why is it a compelling choice? Let's find out!
Stonic comes in 5 variants, with the base variant at $22,290 while top variant goes up to $30,790.
| Variant | Starting price | Fuel Efficiency | Fuel Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kia Stonic S 6MT | $22,290* | 6L / 100km | Petrol |
| Kia Stonic S 6AT | $23,790* | 6L / 100km | Petrol |
| Kia Stonic Sport 6MT | $25,290* | 6L / 100km | Petrol |
| Kia Stonic Sport 6AT | $26,790* | 6L / 100km | Petrol |
| Kia Stonic GT-Line 7DCT | $30,790* | 5.4L / 100km | Petrol |
Exteriors
Kia with Stonic has taken a bold approach, and it shows!
- Styling elements
The sculpted hood and wide stance give it a sporty, adventurous look. The little SUV rocks a bold, youthful design that makes a statement on the road. The sculpted hood and wide stance give it a sporty aggression, making it look ready to conquer any adventure. The iconic Kia tiger grille steals the spotlight, complemented by sharp headlights that we personally find aesthetically pleasing! Sharp creases along the body add definition. However, there are some trade-offs to consider. While the design is youthful and exciting, the base model lacks the cool black contrasting roof on higher trims.
- Colour options
Kia offers a vibrant palette of 8 colours, so you can pick a shade that reflects your personality. There's a perfect match for everyone, from sporty blues to head-turning yellows or timeless whites. The flashy options might catch your eye, but in our opinion, the yellow does not translate as well from the brochure to the real world. However, the metallic blue and red options are surefire ways to stand out from the sea of black and grey.
- Wheel design
When it comes to wheel design, the entry-grade Stonic features 15-inch steel wheels, providing a solid foundation for your journeys. Upgrading to the mid-range Sport grades adds a touch of flair with 17-inch alloy wheels, enhancing both the look and performance of the vehicle. However, even though the bigger wheels tend to flatter the design more, they didn't equate to a smoother ride.
Interiors
- Interior layout and space
The Stonic's interior is designed for functionality, featuring a clean, modern layout with comfortable seats and all the necessary tech features to keep you connected while on the move. Kia prioritised practicality over luxury, opting for mostly hard plastics throughout the cabin. While this choice gives the interior a more budget-friendly feel, it also enhances durability and resistance to daily wear and tear. Additionally, the car includes interior lights with delay in both the front and rear. While the interior may not be luxurious, it is intentionally designed to be practical and durable, making it suitable for daily use.
- Comfort and ergonomics
The Stonic's interior offers a blend of comfort and functionality. Upfront, the adjustable seat height and steering wheel-make finding a comfortable driving position easy. The front seats, while decent, may not offer the same level of comfort as some rivals, especially for taller individuals who may find the lower back and under-thigh support limiting. However, the upholstery, featuring leatherette bolsters and cloth inserts, is designed for comfort and durability. The funky design pattern adds a touch of style, and the flat-bottomed GT-Line steering wheel feels great to hold.
In the second row, the Stonic is accommodating, with enough space for average-sized adults to sit comfortably behind others of similar size. It's a proper four-seater, with the fifth seat in the centre best left for emergencies. Ample headroom and legroom make it suitable for daily commutes or weekend getaways. However, legroom in the rear feels snug for adults on longer trips.
While the Kia Stonic's interior falls short of its premium exterior, with hard plastics used throughout, it is designed for user-friendliness. Every button and knob is placed intuitively for easy access, ensuring you won't have to fumble for controls. Overall, the Stonic's interior offers functionality and comfort, making it a practical choice for daily use.
- Boot
Kia has maximised Stonic's interior cargo space. With 332 to 352 litres of trunk space, which expands to 1,135 to 1,155 litres with the seats folded down, it offers a decent amount of room. However, this may fall short for those constantly on the move or families needing ample cargo space.
One noticeable absence is an adjustable floor to even the step between the boot floor and seat backs, despite cutouts suggesting provision for one. Additionally, there's a space-saver spare wheel under the boot floor, but no additional storage space is provided.
Technology and infotainment
- Infotainment System
As with any car, the Kia Stonic's 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system is the central hub for entertainment and navigation. The user-friendly interface allows easy access to music, navigation, and other features with a tap or a swipe. The system supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, providing seamless smartphone integration for accessing your favourite apps and features using voice commands or touch controls.
- Connectivity Options
The Stonic offers a range of connectivity options to keep you connected while on the move. It supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, providing seamless smartphone integration for accessing your favourite apps and features using voice commands or touch controls. Additionally, the car includes USB ports in the front and rear and a 12V power outlet, providing convenient charging options for all your devices during long journeys.
- Navigation System
The car has a comprehensive navigation system, including Kia's connected services (available on all trims except the base model), including navigation and a "find my car" feature. This feature was particularly useful during last year's Melbourne Cup, helping us easily locate our car in the crowded event parking lot!
While the Stonic offers a range of tech features, we think it could be improved by offering the full suite of features and technology available in overseas markets. This would make the Stonic more competitive in its class, especially considering the availability of extra driver assistance systems. Despite this, the Stonic remains a solid choice for those looking for a compact SUV.
Performance and engine
The ride quality is noticeably rigid, especially when equipped with the 17-inch wheels, resulting in occasional discomfort when encountering bumps. Kia has placed a higher emphasis on minimising body roll rather than prioritising ride comfort, which is a common characteristic among SUVs.
- Engine Specifications
| Variant | Power | Torque | Engine Configuration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kia Stonic S 6MT | 74kW | 133Nm | 1.4-litre four-cylinder petrol |
| Kia Stonic S 6AT | 74kW | 133Nm | 1.4-litre four-cylinder petrol |
| Kia Stonic Sport 6MT | 74kW | 133Nm | 1.4-litre four-cylinder petrol |
| Kia Stonic Sport 6AT | 74kW | 133Nm | 1.4-litre four-cylinder petrol |
| Kia Stonic GT-Line 7DCT | 74kW | 172Nm | 1.0-litre three-cylinder turbo petrol |
- Transmission and Drive System
The Kia Stonic offers two engine options, depending on the grade. The entry-grade S and mid-range Sport feature a 1.4-litre four-cylinder petrol engine producing 74kW and 133Nm. This engine can be paired with a six-speed automatic transmission or a six-speed manual gearbox. In contrast, the top-of-the-range GT-Line boasts a 1.0-litre three-cylinder turbo petrol engine generating 74kW and 172Nm, paired with a sporty seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The 1.0L T-GDI petrol engine is available on the GT-Line grade for those seeking turbocharged performance.
- Braking system
Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) enhances the Stonic's braking system by autonomously applying brakes to avoid collisions, improving safety and driver reassurance. While this feature improves safety and provides reassurance, drivers should remain attentive. The 2024 Kia Stonic can tow up to 1000kg. However, without trailer brakes, the maximum load is limited to 750kg if the vehicle is rated for towing at that weight.
- Fuel Economy and Efficiency
The Kia Stonic boasts impressive fuel efficiency, with the GT-Line model consuming just 5.4L/100km and the Sport model 6.7L/100km. This offers savings on fuel costs with each drive. The Stonic offers a smooth ride with easy handling and laid-back acceleration, perfect for everyday trips or casual drives. The seven-speed dual-clutch auto transmission delivers smooth acceleration and efficient gear shifts, contributing to a fuel-efficient driving experience.
- Handling and Driving Dynamics
While the Stonic's handling is competent, with good body control and a comfortable ride, we found its softer suspension setup less engaging. The steering is accurate and progressive, although it is lighter and not as quick as some competitors. The Stonic strikes a good balance between ride comfort and dynamic ability, making it a practical and enjoyable choice for everyday driving.
Safety features
Kia Stonic is a reliable, safe choice. It offers a range of advanced features that provide peace of mind on the road. With its impressive five-star ANCAP safety rating, the Stonic inherits the Rio hatchback's exceptional safety standards, ensuring a secure driving experience for both driver and passengers.
The Stonic has a suite of safety features designed to protect occupants in various driving situations. The Kia Stonic has advanced safety features to ensure a secure driving experience. These include Lane Following Assist (LFA) and Lane Keeping Assist (LKA) to keep the vehicle centred and prevent unintentional lane departure. The Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) system monitors the road for potential collisions and applies the brakes if necessary.
Additionally, the Stonic comes with multiple airbags, Hill Start Assist Control (HAC) to prevent rolling backwards on inclines, and Vehicle Stability Management for optimal braking performance. Rear View Camera and Rear Parking Sensors aid in parking. At the same time, Driver Attention Alert+ with Lead Vehicle Departure Alert enhances overall safety by monitoring the driver's behaviour for signs of fatigue or inattentiveness.
Despite these impressive safety features, it's worth noting that Australian models of the Stonic do not offer blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, or adaptive cruise control like their European counterparts. Thanks to its comprehensive safety suite, we believe that the Kia Stonic is a great option for those looking for a compact SUV with top-notch safety features.
The safety features include the following:
- Lane Following Assist (LFA)
- Lane Keeping Assist (LKA)
- Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB)
- Airbags (driver & front passenger, front side, curtain SRS)
- Hill Start Assist Control (HAC)
- Vehicle Stability Management
- Rear View Camera & Rear Parking Sensors
- Driver Attention Alert+ with Lead Vehicle Departure Alert
Ownership experience
Despite its competitive pricing and warranty, the Stonic has received a user rating of 2.2, indicating some user dissatisfaction.
The Kia Stonic was well-received by owners thanks to its appealing design, good interior features, and useful driver-assist technologies. But we found the manual version lacking power, and people complained that the back seats were tight.
Major strengths:
- The Kia Stonic is generally well-regarded as a good car, offering a more modern and versatile driving experience.
- It is considered a good value in the current market, especially given its SUV classification. Buyers seeking practicality and style often choose it.
- Despite the limited negotiation room in the current market, especially for SUVs, the Stonic offers competitive pricing and attractive features.
- The Stonic provides a good driving experience, responsive handling and a comfortable interior, making it a compelling choice for daily commuting or longer trips.
Major drawbacks:
- The Kia Stonic manual variant could use a boost in power. Its 1.4-litre gasoline engine produces only 94 horsepower, while the automatic variant can produce up to 99 horsepower.
- The Kia Stonic's rear seating is inadequate, with limited space that can be uncomfortable for three adults, especially during long rides.
Maintenance costs and Warranty information
The service costs for the 2024 Kia Stonic vary depending on the engine type and transmission. For the 1.0 T-GDI petrol engine with a 7-speed auto (DCT) transmission, the prices range from $289 for the 1-year/10,000 km interval to $608 for the 6-year/60,000 km interval. For the 1.4L petrol engine with a 6-speed auto or manual transmission, the prices range from $275 for the 1-year/15,000 km interval to $614 for the 4-year/60,000 km interval. These costs cover the specified services and intervals, ensuring the Stonic remains in optimal condition throughout its ownership.
In addition, the Kia Stonic comes with a 7-year/unlimited mileage warranty, providing owners peace of mind.
Verdict
The Kia Stonic stands out in the subcompact SUV segment, offering a blend of affordability and style. Its bold exterior design, practical interior, and an array of tech features make it a compelling choice for buyers. However, it's not without its drawbacks, such as limited rear seating and the need for more power in the manual variant. Despite these issues, the Stonic's overall package, including its competitive pricing, solid driving experience, and comprehensive safety features, makes it a worthy contender.
