Kia Stonic launched in PH at subcompact sedan prices (w/ brochure)
Just a few months after initially hinting at the launch and even announcing different specifications, Kia Philippines has officially launched the all-new 2021 Kia Stonic, the brand’s entry into the rapidly growing subcompact crossover segment.
The Stonic is Kia’s new entry-level crossover in the local market, slotting in between the Rio hatchback and the Seltos subcompact crossover.
The digital unveiling was spearheaded by the triumvirate of equally-dynamic and active executives for the local arm of the Korean automaker, namely AC Industrials Chairman and CEO Arthur Tan, AC Motors automotive group President Antonio “Toti” Zara III and Kia Philippines President Manny Aligada.
Tan expressed his firm confidence on the new Stonic, claiming that it will be a frontrunner for Kia in its bid to be one of the key players in the industry—alongside other volume sellers from its stable such as the Soluto, Seltos and K2500.
Meanwhile, Aligada said that their latest model is designed to set a new trend in the local automotive arena. “For over 70 years, Kia has been innovating the way we design vehicles. Today, we are proud to launch the Kia Stonic—which has Style that’s Iconic,” he expressed.
“With a vehicle like this, we hope to be a driving force for you, the Filipino youth, who are on your way to where you want to go,” Aligada added.
As pegged by Kia’s chief designer Peter Schreyer, the European Design Language is manifested in the compact features, elegant design, sharp lines and smooth surfaces, and the signature Tiger Nose Grille and the roof rails at the top of the unit.
Standard equipment on the upcoming Kia Stonic include projector halogen headlights, 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a 6-speaker audio system. The 1.4 EX variant gets some additional features like LED daytime running lights, smart entry with push button start, and an automatic climate control system. The rear seats fold 60:40 and the vehicle also features 325 liters of luggage space.
The new Stonic is available in five iconic hues to match its looks: Prime Red, Clear White (for the LX variants), Extreme Blue (offered in all three variants) and the two-tone Black/Flame Orange, Black/Flash Yellow and Black/Clear White (exclusive for the top variant EX).
Under the hood of the Stonic is a single engine option, a 1.4-liter Dual CVVT engine paired to either a 5-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission. It produces 94 horsepower with a manual transmission, and 99 horsepower with an automatic. Torque is at 132 Nm.
Safety features on the 2021 Kia Stonic, at least on the EX variant, are rear parking sensors, rearview camera with dynamic guidelines, electronic stability control and hill start assist. Ground clearance also measures at 185 mm.
The Stonic, just like the other members of the Kia Philippines lineup, will be offered with up to five-year or 160,000-km warranty, as well as with a 24/7 Roadside Assistance free for five years. By just contacting the Kia Customer hotline, customers will have access to Roadside Assistance, which covers Emergency Towing, Personal Assistance, Minor Onsite Repair, Medical Assistance and Information Service for a worry-free ownership.
Pricing for the 2021 Kia Stonic is as follows:
- 1.4 LX M/T – Php 735,000
- 1.4 LX A/T – Php 835,000
- 1.4 EX A/T – Php 925,000
With such affordable pricing at subcompact sedan levels, it won’t be a surprise to see first time car buyers go for the Kia Stonic, especially since Kia Philippines is positioning the new crossover to target the younger generation of buyers.
