Vehicle buyers have developed a different taste to perfectly suit the modern palate. Realizing this, the Ayala-backed Kia Philippines is introducing the all-new 2021 Stonic crossover, and in a pleasant surprise, it’s pricing it to compete against subcompact sedans and hatchbacks. Priced from P735,000 to P925,000 (without discounts), the Stonic is Kia’s answer to buyers who’re increasingly looking to get their money’s worth.
First unveiled in 2017 at the Frankfurt Motor Show, the Stonic immediately earned the attention of many with its stylish and hip design. This crossover was inspired by Kia’s chief designer Peter Schreyer’s European Design Language and has shown more straight lines and smooth surfaces to provide owners a preview of what they would experience inside the vehicle.
These modern lines and edges complement the signature Tiger Nose Grille and the projector headlamps, flanked with the LED Daytime Running Lamps (which is exclusive to the EX variant) in the front fascia. The sleek roofline has highlighted the lively hues, befitting the dynamic and chic persona of the vehicle. The top-tier EX variant sports a two-tone color option, making it more vibrant yet pleasing to the eyes.
Targeted towards young and active individuals, the Stonic comes with unparalleled connectivity thanks to its standard eight-inch touchscreen audio system with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and six speakers. The top-of-the-line EX variant adds smart entry with push-start for the engine and automatic climate control.
Measuring 4,100mm long and 1,532mm high, it appeals to the practical with its generous 2,570mm (120 mm longer than other subcompact sedans) wheelbase. The comfortable and roomy cabin, great for daily drives around the city, is backed up by a 325-liter cargo hold which can grow to 1,155 liters with the rear seats folded down. And with 185mm (as much as 65mm higher than subcompact sedans) of ground clearance, it offers drivers the confidence to tackle Manila’s flash floods.
The Stonic is powered by a 1.4-liter normally-aspirated motor mated to either a five-speed manual or six-speed automatic. The engine makes 95hp for the three-pedal variant, and 100hp for the two-pedal version; both versions generate 132Nm of torque. Either way, Kia promises peppy responses and excellent fuel efficiency.
Occupant safety will never be compromised with the myriad of features that prioritize the driver and the passengers. The host of standard safety features including airbags, ABS with EBD, and a rear parking camera. The EX grade adds Reverse Parking Sensors, Hill Start Assist, and Electronic Stability Control as well.
“We are excited to present to you the all-new 2021 Kia Stonic. It’s a vehicle for those looking for something hip and stylish yet likewise want to get the value-for-money proposition that this crossover offers,” says Kia Philippines president Manny Aligada.
The Ayala-backed Kia Philippines says the Stonic’s arrival is timely with the market shifting towards those with a strong value-driven proposition. Until its official launch date of Oct. 15, Kia is slashing up to P60,000 off the SRPs. This means that for a limited time, the Stonic starts at just P675,000 for the LX MT, moving up to P785,000 for the mid-range LX AT, before being capped off by the P875,000 for the EX AT. And just like other members of the Kia Philippines’ line-up, the Kia Stonic will be offered with a five-year/160,000-km warranty, as well as 24/7 Roadside Assistance free for five years. Roadside Assistance would include: Emergency Towing, Personal Assistance, Minor Onsite Repair, Medical Assistance and Information Service for a secured, enjoyable and worry-free ownership.