The Kia Stonic 1.6 CRDi, producing 136 horsepower, was a key variant in Kia’s entry into the European subcompact crossover market. Introduced in 2018 and remaining in production through 2020, this model aimed to provide a fuel-efficient and practical option for buyers seeking a stylish and affordable vehicle. It was positioned as a mid-range offering within the Stonic lineup, bridging the gap between the base engine options and the more performance-oriented trims. The Stonic, built on Kia’s platform, represented a significant step for the brand in offering a vehicle specifically tailored to the demands of the European B-segment.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Kia |
| Model | Stonic |
| Generation | Stonic |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 CRDi (136 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2018 |
| End of production | 2020 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Crossover |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 4.7 l/100 km (50 US mpg, 60.1 UK mpg, 21.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.8 l/100 km (61.9 US mpg, 74.3 UK mpg, 26.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.1 l/100 km (57.4 US mpg, 68.9 UK mpg, 24.4 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 108 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 184 km/h (114.33 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.5 kg/Hp, 105.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.6 kg/Nm, 217.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 136 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 85.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 280 Nm @ 1500-3000 rpm (206.52 lb.-ft. @ 1500-3000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | D4FE |
| Engine displacement | 1598 cm3 (97.52 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 77 mm (3.03 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 85.8 mm (3.38 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 16:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.4 l (4.65 US qt | 3.87 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6.2 l (6.55 US qt | 5.46 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1288 kg (2839.55 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1720 kg (3791.95 lbs.) |
| Max load | 432 kg (952.4 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 352 l (12.43 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1155 l (40.79 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 45 l (11.89 US gal | 9.9 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1110 kg (2447.13 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 450 kg (992.08 lbs.) |
| Length | 4140 mm (162.99 in.) |
| Width | 1760 mm (69.29 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2025 mm (79.72 in.) |
| Height | 1520 mm (59.84 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2580 mm (101.57 in.) |
| Front track | 1531 mm (60.28 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1539 mm (60.59 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 183 mm (7.2 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.34 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.4 m (34.12 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 15.4° |
| Departure angle | 30.4° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 205/55 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Kia Stonic 1.6 CRDi utilized the D4FE engine, a 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine. This engine was a common choice in various Hyundai-Kia models, known for its balance of fuel efficiency and reasonable performance. The D4FE features a cast iron block and an aluminum cylinder head, incorporating a turbocharger with an intercooler to boost power output. Fuel is delivered via a common-rail direct injection system, allowing for precise fuel metering and optimized combustion. The engine employs a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, enhancing volumetric efficiency. The 136 horsepower output is achieved at 4000 rpm, while the peak torque of 280 Nm (206.52 lb.-ft.) is available between 1500 and 3000 rpm. This broad torque curve contributes to good drivability in everyday situations. The engine is paired with a six-speed manual transmission, delivering power to the front wheels.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6 CRDi engine in the Stonic provided a noticeable step up in performance compared to the smaller gasoline engines offered in the lineup. While not a particularly sporty vehicle, the 136 hp and 280 Nm of torque offered adequate acceleration for merging onto highways and overtaking slower traffic. The six-speed manual transmission allowed drivers to keep the engine in its optimal power band. The gear ratios were well-chosen for both city and highway driving, providing a balance between responsiveness and fuel economy. Compared to higher-output versions of the Stonic, this variant prioritized fuel efficiency and lower running costs over outright performance. The manual transmission also offered a more engaging driving experience than the available automatic options.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6 CRDi trim typically included features such as air conditioning, a touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity, and power windows. Safety features like ABS, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), and multiple airbags were standard. Higher trim levels added features like alloy wheels, a rear-view camera, parking sensors, and a more comprehensive infotainment system with navigation. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for upgraded materials on higher trims. The dashboard layout was functional and straightforward, prioritizing ease of use over luxurious aesthetics.
Chassis & Braking
The Kia Stonic featured a front-wheel-drive chassis with a MacPherson strut front suspension and a torsion beam rear suspension. This setup provided a comfortable ride quality for everyday driving. The front brakes were ventilated discs, while the rear brakes were solid discs. The steering was electrically assisted, offering light and precise control. The suspension was tuned for comfort rather than sporty handling, but it provided adequate stability and control in most driving situations. The 17-inch wheels and 205/55 R17 tires contributed to a balanced ride and handling experience.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Kia Stonic 1.6 CRDi was generally well-received by automotive critics for its fuel efficiency, practicality, and value for money. It was often praised for its comfortable ride and spacious interior. However, some critics noted that the engine could be somewhat noisy under hard acceleration. Compared to other diesel-powered subcompact crossovers, the Stonic offered a competitive level of equipment and a generous warranty. Its fuel economy was comparable to rivals like the Renault Captur and Peugeot 2008, while its price point was often more attractive. The manual transmission was favored by many drivers for its improved fuel economy and more engaging driving experience.
Legacy
The Kia Stonic 1.6 CRDi has proven to be a reliable and durable vehicle in the used car market. The D4FE engine is known for its longevity, provided it is properly maintained. Common maintenance items include regular oil changes, filter replacements, and timing belt service. The Stonic’s relatively simple mechanical design makes it relatively easy and affordable to repair. Today, these models represent a good value for buyers seeking a fuel-efficient and practical subcompact crossover. While diesel engines are facing increasing scrutiny due to emissions regulations, the Stonic 1.6 CRDi remains a popular choice for those prioritizing fuel economy and long-term reliability.
