Overview

Kia are the latest brand to enter the fast-growing B-SUV segment with their oddly-named Stonic crossover. Based on the Rio, the Stonic will offer more space, and a higher ride height than its supermini equivalent.

There will be four trim levels available, with a choice of three petrols and one diesel engine. The volume seller here is expected to be the 1.4l 100 PS petrol, which starts at €21,099.

It is generously equipped from the ground up with standard features including alloy wheels and privacy glass, a seven inch media display with Bluetooth phone connectivity, and cruise control.

Kia tell us most buyers will choose to upgrade to the K2 model, which adds 17 inch wheels, roof rails, automatic lights and air-con.

Or to the K3 - which gets all of that plus the impressive ADAS safety pack, heated leather seats and SatNav. At the top of the range is the K4  in its one-litre 120ps turbo petrol guise with metal pedals, a blind spot detector, dual zone automatic air-conditioning and a rain sensor.

A wide range of personalisation options are set to enhance its appeal even further and include interior colour packs and contrasting roof designs, alongside a vibrant colour pallet.

Commenting at the launch, James Brooks, Managing Director of Kia Motors Ireland said “The Stonic will be an important conquest model for Kia in one of the newest and fastest-growing vehicle segments. In Ireland, the B-SUV segment is expected to grow by 100% in the next two years as demand for traditional B and C segment cars declines. We expect Stonic to become an extremely important part of our product mix here in Ireland and become as just as successful as our flagship Sportage and cee’d models.”

Stay tuned for our full in-depth video review of the Kia Stonic, coming soon to CarsIreland.ie