CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 4.2 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 37.2%
Overall CarGurus rating:* 4.2 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 400
Average Price: Around £7,900

Kia Stonic (2017-present) Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Generous seven-year warranty	Most basic cars miss out on some safety systems
Lots of standard kit on all models	Firm ride won't suit everyone
Good to drive	Diesel particulate filters can clog if used for short journeys

Quick Summary

The Kia Stonic is the Korean manufacturer's smallest SUV, launched in 2017 to compete with rivals such as the Seat Arona, Citroën C3 Aircross, and Skoda Kamiq. Built on the same mechanical platform as the Kia Rio hatchback, it offers a compact footprint with impressive build quality and materials that stand up well against competitors. The cabin is well-appointed and up to date, though slightly button-heavy. The Stonic majors on styling and equipment, with a low driver's seat that provides a more hatchback-like driving position, making it more engaging than typical SUVs. The 352-litre boot is respectable for the class, though some rivals offer more space.

The Stonic is more competent and agile through corners than expected, resisting body roll whilst feeling taut and keen, though the firmer ride may not suit those prioritising comfort. Engine options include a 1.4-litre petrol (98bhp), a punchier 1.0-litre turbo T-GDi (118bhp or 99bhp from 2020), and a 1.6-litre diesel (108bhp, discontinued 2020). All models feature five or six-speed manual gearboxes, with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic available. Running costs are competitive, with fuel economy ranging from 49.6mpg to 56.5mpg depending on engine and test procedure. Insurance groups span 8 to 14 of 50, keeping premiums low. Kia's seven-year warranty and strong reliability record provide excellent peace of mind.

Best for: Buyers seeking a stylish, well-equipped compact SUV with excellent warranty coverage, those who value good driving dynamics, and families wanting a practical vehicle with strong reliability.

Not ideal for: Those requiring comprehensive safety systems on entry-level models, drivers preferring a softer, more comfortable ride, or diesel users planning only short journeys.


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the Stonic if: You want a stylish, well-equipped compact SUV with excellent warranty coverage, value good driving dynamics, or seek a practical family vehicle with strong reliability and competitive running costs.

Consider alternatives if: You require comprehensive safety systems on entry-level models, prefer a softer and more comfortable ride, or plan to use a diesel model for only short journeys.

Competitive Position: The Kia Stonic is a very good all-rounder in the compact SUV segment, offering impressive standard equipment, engaging driving dynamics, and Kia's brilliant seven-year warranty. Whilst the Skoda Kamiq edges ahead with higher ratings and better value deals, and the Seat Arona offers slightly sharper handling, the Stonic deserves serious consideration. It combines style, practicality, and reliability at a competitive price point, making it an excellent choice for buyers seeking a well-rounded compact SUV without premium pricing.

Read our full Kia Stonic Review

*The Overall CarGurus rating: that informs these recommendations is based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from July 2026, CarGurus expert reviews, and CarGurus user reviews.