Australian car buyers might soon have another hybrid option in the compact SUV space. Kia Australia has shown strong interest in bringing the mild-hybrid version of their popular Stonic SUV to local showrooms, potentially arriving as early as next year.
What’s Coming to Australia
The hybrid Stonic isn’t entirely new – it’s already available in overseas markets like the UK and Europe. What makes this news exciting is that Kia Australia previously showed little interest in the electrified version. However, Roland Rivero, Kia Australia’s general manager for product planning, recently indicated the company has changed its stance.
“We have our hand up for it… if we can make it happen, the sooner the better,” Rivero explained during the launch of Kia’s new EV3 electric SUV. This represents a complete turnaround from the company’s position in late 2023, when they effectively ruled out bringing the hybrid variant Down Under.
Technical Details You Should Know
The hybrid Stonic uses what Kia calls the ‘Eco-Dynamics+’ system. Don’t expect a dramatic transformation – this is mild-hybrid technology, not a full hybrid like you’d find in a Toyota Prius.
Engine and Power
The heart of the system remains the same 1.0-litre three-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine currently sold in Australian Stonic models. The key difference is the addition of a 48-volt mild-hybrid system that works alongside the petrol engine.
Power output stays at 74kW, matching the non-hybrid version. The real benefit comes in fuel efficiency and driving smoothness, particularly in city driving conditions.
How the Hybrid System Works
The 48V system allows the Stonic to do something pretty clever – it can completely shut off the petrol engine while coasting at speeds up to 125km/h. This means when you’re cruising down a highway or approaching traffic lights, the car can run on electric power alone for short periods.
The system also enhances the stop-start technology, making it more seamless and extending the periods when the engine stays off at traffic lights or in stop-and-go traffic.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine | 1.0L three-cylinder turbo |
| Power Output | 74kW (unchanged) |
| Hybrid System | 48V mild-hybrid |
| Fuel Efficiency Improvement | 0.3L/100km better (WLTP) |
| Coasting Speed | Up to 125km/h |
| Market Availability | Expected 2026 |
Why This Matters for Australian Buyers
Currently, if you want a hybrid small SUV in Australia, your options are fairly limited. The Toyota Yaris Cross Hybrid dominates this space, while the Jeep Avenger offers full electric power. A mild-hybrid Stonic would give Kia a foothold in the increasingly important electrified vehicle segment.
Real-World Benefits
While the official fuel efficiency improvement is modest at 0.3 litres per 100 kilometres, real-world urban driving could show more significant savings. City driving, with its frequent stops and starts, is where mild-hybrid systems shine brightest.
The improved efficiency comes without sacrificing the practical aspects that make the Stonic popular – cargo space, ground clearance, and that higher driving position many Australian buyers prefer.
What’s Next for the Stonic
Beyond the potential hybrid addition, the Stonic is due for its second major update. The model first launched in Australia in 2021 with a mid-life facelift, but the original design dates back to 2017.
Expected Updates
Industry sources suggest the upcoming refresh will include updated technology, potentially bringing the infotainment system in line with Kia’s newer models. Visual updates are also likely, helping the Stonic maintain its competitive edge in the crowded small SUV market.
Market Competition
The arrival of a hybrid Stonic would intensify competition in Australia’s light SUV segment. Currently, the Toyota Yaris Cross Hybrid holds a strong position, but Kia’s entry could offer buyers a different styling approach and potentially different pricing.
Sister brand Hyundai is also preparing to enter this space with the all-electric Inster city car, though that’s a smaller vehicle aimed at a slightly different market segment.
Pricing Expectations
While Kia Australia hasn’t revealed pricing for the hybrid Stonic, overseas markets suggest the mild-hybrid system adds a modest premium over the standard petrol version. Given the current Stonic starts around $27,000, a hybrid version might sit in the low-to-mid $30,000 range.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When will the hybrid Stonic be available in Australia?
A: Kia Australia indicates it’s likely a “next year exercise,” suggesting a 2026 launch timeframe.
Q: Will the hybrid version be more powerful than the current Stonic?
A: No, power output remains at 74kW. The focus is on improved fuel efficiency rather than increased performance.
Q: How much fuel will the hybrid system save?
A: Official figures show 0.3L/100km improvement, but real-world city driving could see larger savings.
