The Kia Stonic, specifically the facelifted version introduced in 2020, represents Kia’s entry into the highly competitive subcompact crossover segment. The 1.0 T-GDI variant, producing 100 horsepower, was offered from May 2024 through September 2025. This model played a crucial role in expanding Kia’s appeal to younger buyers and those seeking a stylish, fuel-efficient, and affordable urban vehicle, primarily targeted at the European market, though it saw limited availability in other regions. It sits within the broader Stonic range as an entry-level powertrain option, offering a balance between cost and capability.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Kia |
| Model | Stonic |
| Generation | Stonic (facelift 2020) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.0 T-GDI (100 Hp) |
| Start of production | May, 2024 |
| End of production | September, 2025 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Crossover |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption at Low speed (WLTP) | 6.9 l/100 km (34.1 US mpg, 40.9 UK mpg, 14.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption at Medium speed (WLTP) | 5.2 l/100 km (45.2 US mpg, 54.3 UK mpg, 19.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption at high speed (WLTP) | 4.7 l/100 km (50 US mpg, 60.1 UK mpg, 21.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption at very high speed (WLTP) | 5.8 l/100 km (40.6 US mpg, 48.7 UK mpg, 17.2 km/l) |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 5.5 l/100 km (42.8 US mpg, 51.4 UK mpg, 18.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 125 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 179 km/h (111.23 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6e |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.2 kg/Hp, 89.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.5 kg/Nm, 153.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 100 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 100.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 172 Nm @ 1500-3500 rpm (126.86 lb.-ft. @ 1500-3500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | G3LE |
| Engine displacement | 998 cm3 (60.9 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 3 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 71 mm (2.8 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 84 mm (3.31 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | CVVD |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.6 l (3.8 US qt | 3.17 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 5.9 l (6.23 US qt | 5.19 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1120-1223 kg (2469.18 – 2696.25 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1650 kg (3637.63 lbs.) |
| Max load | 427-530 kg (941.37 – 1168.45 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) |
| Max. roof load | 70 kg (154.32 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 710 kg (1565.28 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 450 kg (992.08 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 75 kg (165.35 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 | 1531-1573 mm (60.28 – 61.93 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1539-1544 mm (60.59 – 60.79 in.) |
| Front overhang | 830 mm (32.68 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 730 mm (28.74 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.4 m (34.12 ft.) |
| 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 suspension | Independent type McPherson, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring, Elastic beam |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 280 mm |
| Rear brakes | Disc, 262 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 185/65 R15 88H; 195/55 R16 87H; 205/55 R17 91V |
| Wheel rims size | 6.0J x 15 ET46; 6.0J x 16 ET49; 6.5J x 17 ET49 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Stonic variant is the Kia/Hyundai G3LE engine, a 998cc turbocharged three-cylinder gasoline engine. This engine utilizes direct fuel injection and a single scroll turbocharger with an intercooler to deliver a respectable 100 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 172 Nm (126.86 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1500 and 3500 rpm. A key feature of this engine is Kia’s Continuously Variable Valve Duration (CVVD) technology, which optimizes valve timing based on driving conditions, improving efficiency and reducing emissions. The engine is transversely mounted at the front of the vehicle. The 6-speed manual transmission was standard, providing a relatively direct connection to the engine.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.0 T-GDI with the manual transmission offers adequate performance for urban driving and shorter highway trips. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes approximately 10.7 seconds, and top speed is rated at 179 km/h (111.23 mph). While not particularly quick, the turbocharger provides a noticeable boost in power during acceleration, making it feel more responsive than its displacement might suggest. The gear ratios are tuned for fuel efficiency, meaning the engine can feel strained when pushed hard, especially when fully loaded. Compared to higher-output versions of the Stonic, this variant prioritizes fuel economy over outright performance.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.0 T-GDI typically came equipped with a reasonable level of standard features. These generally included air conditioning, a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, Bluetooth connectivity, and basic safety features like ABS, ESC (Electronic Stability Control), and multiple airbags. Higher trim levels added features such as alloy wheels, a rear-view camera, parking sensors, and more advanced driver-assistance systems. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for upgraded materials on higher trims.
Chassis & Braking
The Stonic utilizes a front-wheel-drive layout with an independent McPherson strut suspension in the front and a semi-independent elastic beam suspension in the rear. The front brakes are ventilated discs measuring 280mm, while the rear brakes are solid discs measuring 262mm. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard. The suspension setup is tuned for comfort and ride quality, prioritizing a smooth ride over sporty handling. Stabilizer bars are included to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 1.0 T-GDI Stonic was generally well-received by critics as a practical and affordable crossover. Its fuel efficiency was a major selling point, with combined WLTP figures around 5.5 l/100 km (42.8 US mpg). Compared to diesel variants, the 1.0 T-GDI offered lower emissions and a more refined driving experience, though with slightly less torque. Against competitors like the Renault Captur and Peugeot 2008, the Stonic offered a competitive price point and a generous warranty, but some reviewers noted its interior materials weren’t as premium as some rivals.
Legacy
The G3LE engine has proven to be a relatively reliable unit, though like any turbocharged engine, it requires regular maintenance, including oil changes with the correct specification. The Stonic 1.0 T-GDI holds its value reasonably well in the used car market, particularly examples with lower mileage and a full service history. Its fuel efficiency and affordability continue to make it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers seeking a small crossover.
