Kia Stonic 2026: Facelifted small SUV bringing mild-hybrid option to tackle Toyota Yaris Cross, Mazda CX-3 and Hyundai Venue

Lukas Foyle

Contributor

Compact Korean SUV confirmed for Australian Q4 launch bringing mild-hybrid power and upgraded infotainment system

The facelifted 2026 Kia Stonic will be released in Australia in the fourth quarter of the year.

Revealed overseas earlier this month, the Stonic facelift will receive cosmetic upgrades both inside and out, as well as a new mild-hybrid drivetrain which promises better performance, fuel economy, and fewer emissions.

Expected to market alongside the Stonic’s sole engine offering — a 1.0-litre turbocharged three cylinder — the new 48-volt mild-hybrid drivetrain should raise power by 15-percent, from 74 kW / 172 Nm to 85kW / 201Nm, while also reducing its 0-100km/hr time to 10.8sec.

Carbon dioxide emissions will drop from 125 – 131g/km (low-high) to 120 – 127, and fuel economy improves by 0.3L/100km, now 6.4L/100km combined (WLTP).

Both Stonic drivetrains will be mated to a seven-speed dual clutch automatic, which will exclusively power the front wheels. Despite availability in overseas markets, a manual transmission offering will not return to Australia. That option was discontinued mid last year.

Offering a hybrid drivetrain is crucial if the Stonic is to compete with key segment rival the Toyota Yaris Cross, which became exclusively hybrid in January 2024. The new drivetrain will also give the Stonic a leg-up against popular Mazda CX-3 and Hyundai Venue rivals.

The facelifted Stonic body has been restyled to slot into Kia’s ‘Opposites United’ design language, featuring sharper body lines, a new front and rear clip, new-look 16-inch wheels (17-inch for GT-Line models), ‘Star Map’ futuristic brightwork, and a new grille.

Kia says it has also redesigned the Stonic bootlid. Boot volume remains unchanged at 350L. Body dimensions remain unchanged too, aside from an additional 25mm body length (now measuring 4165mm).

Inside, Kia has equipped its familiar panoramic dual 12.3-inch infotainment and driver cluster screen to the Stonic, alongside a suite of new driver assistance systems. Standout additions include ‘smart’ cruise control, safe exit warning, lane follow assist, and front collision avoidance assist.

More Australian specific details on the facelifted Kia Stonic, including pricing and finite drivetrain details, will become available when the model debuts locally later in the year.