Kia Stonic India debut at Auto Expo

The expansive Kia stand at the Auto Expo 2018 also had the Stonic crossover on display. While an interview with Peter Schreyer, president and chief design officer, Hyundai Motor Group revealed he believes the Stonic is a good fit for India, it is not expected to launch in the country any time soon.

Sporting a muscular bonnet and a 'tiger nose' grille flanked by angular headlights and daytime running LED lights, the Stonic has a sporty look, which is further accentuated by a swooping roofline, flared wheel arches and large alloy wheels.

In international markets, the Stonic is offered with a range of engines including a 120hp, 1.0-litre T-GDI petrol, an 84hp, 1.2-litre petrol, a 100hp, 1.4-litre petrol and a 110hp, 1.6-litre diesel unit. Incidentally, these are the same engines that Hyundai offers on its Kona SUV. Transmission options include a five- and six-speed manual and a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic.

While a plug-in hybrid option is expected at a later date in those markets, the model is expected to remain driven by the front wheels only.

In terms of features, the Stonic is available with equipment like climate control, a 7.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and satellite navigation and a six-speaker sound system.

The Korean manufacturer also had the Cerato sedan, Stinger GT, Ceed hatchback, Soul EV, Sorento SUV and Sportage SUV on its stand, along with the SP SUV concept. The latter’s production version is expected to hit markets in the second half of 2019.