Kia releases first teaser image for Stonic compact SUV

Kia has released its first teaser image for its Stonic compact SUV. It will be their new global B-segment compact SUV and arrive in the market in the later half of this year. It will be a new addition to the Kia line-up and will be positioned as an alternative body style to the likes of the Rio hatchback and sedan.

We had spotted the car testing previously and these new digital renderings confirm that the production version will have a typical hoisted-up hatchback crossover lines. It will obviously get the wide Kia grille, big wheels and heavily flared wheel arches. The digital images of the rear show a sloping roofline with wraparound tail lamps.

An image of the cabin has been released too and it shows a minimalist but luxurious trim. Visible in it is a climate control system, floating display for the touchscreen infotainment system and orange accents for the centre console as well as the AC vents.

We believe that this car will be offered with the same engine options as the Rio and this includes a 1.0-litre turbocharged petrol, 1.4-litre diesel and petrol four-cylinder engines.

Now for the crucial question, which is that is this car coming to India? We believe yes, because Kia has already announced that it is getting a compact SUV to India and this fits the bill perfectly. It is expected to take this fight to the likes of the Maruti Suzuki Vitara Brezza, Mahindra TUV300 and the Honda WR-V.