Mine arrives on Friday the 21st. I drove a Sportage seven years without any problems. Tires and battery changed. At 64000 km an ABS sensor changed -warranty. My experience with KIA warranted staying with the brand.
Just found your channel by accident, and I can say I have already watched few reviews non stop and your contents is GREAT! Mate please keep it up you’re a legend ⭐️👏
I've had a Stonic GT for over a year and i think he's overplaying the road noise. I haven't noticed it being "loud". and the ervicing starts at under $300 in year one. I love my GT! Just a joy to drive. as for the slow starts, just turn off the Stop Start in traffic, and anticipate the light changes. No prolem if you're paying atention...!
The design has certainly stood the test of time and it remains an attractive design. It seems practical with decent seats and back seat space. The dual clutch seems adequate, but not great. A decent urban shopping/kids car. For me/us it’d possibly be an adequate second car for local shopping, etc, but we have a Skoda that fills that role. Kia makes good cars and this appears to be one of them. Road noise would be a deterrent for me, but the other benefits of this car might outweigh the deficits. Service costs are too high, and yes, it’d likely break the decision for me. I’d buy them the Skoda Kamiq I think, if I were in the market of course. A great review with excellent and balanced remarks on the, car as you always provide in every review. Thanks.
Had one of these 1.0l turbo Stonic overseas for about 10 days overseas. Same 7sp DCT. With Car Play used WAZE to navigate, my Spotify. Love that the cruise control is old style not ACC. My current VW is a 1.2l with very similar Kw and torque. Stonics get along very well and engine does not thrum too much. Had a TCross loan car when my VW was being serviced and honestly no interest, hated the VW.
Bought the sports model about 18 months ago and love it. This car needs a proper torque converter auto. As seen in the review, the turbo lag and lack of torque converter in the gt line would be a total deal breaker for me. Just did a 200klm trip and got the fuel economy down to 5 litres per 100klm on highway with some very careful throttle control. Big mistake by kia dropping the proper auto option
One car you left off of this, the base automatic version of the Suzuki Vitara. Its got a larger more usable boot than this(even though its slighlty smaller), its more practical inside(the front door bins can take a 2l bottle) and the engine and transmission arent bad, its not the turbo but it can get the job done and its alot more livable and more exciting to drive than this. Plus you get keyless entry and push button start. Most importantly its in the same price range as this drive away.
If i were a bachelor who only goes around the city this would be a good, practical and economical car except for the Kia dealership servicing, but you can always have it serviced elsewhere.
Where i live, we have got highest variant i.e. Ex Plus for around USD 22,500 including tax and everything. But it comes with 1.4L NA engine, Auyomatic Gear Box (Torque Converter) and wireless Android Auto. We do not have lane assist, forward collision breaking or auto break. It costs around $60 every 5000 kms.
Shame they discontinued the lower specs, I have the base S manual and it’s great . A manual gets the most out of the 1.4 it’s zippy and responsive and the wireless CarPlay the best . Again shame the lower specs are no longer available
Im currently driving a rental skoda kamiq style and im really surpirised at how much im liking it. The laggy dsg on takeoff is a bit of a downer though.
use sport mode and turn off (on/off) feature, car starts in D1 (economy) on screen, pull back the Auto select when in drive and let go, your in S1,2,3 etc on screen, runs higher revs and change points (sport)
I suspect the real world fuel economy you got had more to do with you changing it from eco everytime you got in than being an exaggerated claim. I was going to buy a Cerato, but after hiring one, it was so low that I couldn't see more than the car in front most of the time and it felt a little unsafe because of that. The raised ride height is good, though I would have preferred the softer suspension tune that the 1.4L had. I hadn't considered the Volkswagen, I'll check that out. As far as expensive servicing goes to maintain the 7 year warranty. Those warranties only cover things that never break, I would just get it serviced at my regular mechanic. Thanks for the review, the in the Australian market. Keep up the good work Matt.
Just ordered a gt line on disability motability in uk I found it comfortable was it a good choice mine is like just under top spec costing me 75.75 per week
I’ve just visited Kia today as I’m swapping my current Motability car (it’s too low). I love the look of the stonic and it seems to have everything my current car has plus the good height I’m looking for. Pleased you’ve got a car you like Nicholas, I’m hopefully ordering mine on Saturday.
Nah I would choose the MG ZST over this any day. My parents just ordered a top spec ZST Essence for $32,490 drive away and I couldn’t believe how good it was for the price. The little 1.3L turbo engine and conventional 6 speed auto are responsive off the line with none of the lag you get in the Kia. The huge panoramic sunroof with tilt and slide functionality is actually amazing, and it has decent tech like a 360 surround view camera and digital dash. It also has heated front seats and a good size boot with adjustable floor height. MG didn’t even skimp on the tyres with good quality Michelin rubber that offers good ride comfort and low road noise. It also has a 7 year warranty (plus an extra 3 year dealer warranty if serviced through them), with more affordable servicing costs than the Kia. I’m not sure why you’d choose the Kia over the MG, but my parents are very happy with their choice!
I heard a couple of separate accounts (on RUclips) that the brake pads and disks need replacing after only around 20,000 kms on the MG ZST. Hopefully not the case, or already been rectified for your parents sake.
Ford Australia is making terrible business decisions. Axing the puma is another example of their inability to provide sufficient products in their portfolio.
I couldn’t decide between Kia stonic, Hyundai venue and VW T-Cross. I’m just myself and mainly city driving but do travel a bit and families visiting from overseas so wanting a bigger boot size. I like T-Cross but Venue seemed to offer the best value. Any suggestions?
Thanks for the question - I prefer the T-Cross in terms of the way it drives, and the powertrain is much more lively. It is a bit more expensive but it feels it. However, have you see the Skoda Kamiq? The Runout model is $32,990 drive away with a 7 year warranty and a 400L boot. Roughly the same size as the others, too.
No I haven’t. Will check it out. What do you think of the resell value a few years down the track? A used car dealer told me VW don’t sell and depreciate quickly coz the maintenance can get quite pricey once the warranty period is gone.
Too expensive for a little town car with DCT. I'd buy the MG ZST 1.3 turbo with a torque converter auto transmission. I won't buy any vehicle that the stop/start cant be turned off.
@@therightcaryeah but its solid, plus the price should be dropping soon since its future is unsure. Will it be replaced by the ugly Renault clone or will it be replaced by the new Xforce?
Not a bad looking little car its a shame that with a lot of these new cars are hampered by their mechanics turbos requiring premium fuel higher service costs etc. dodgy Duel clutch transmissions eg Ford & VW. you wold think by now that car makers would be able to build something that shifts gears seamlessley and be reliable at the same time istead of using a gearbox that does not know wheather it is a auto or a manual. I am no mechanic but I drive a lot of different new cars for my work some are modern and comfy some are mechanically flawed. I do think this little car could do with a simple tried and tested automatic transmission or a six speed manual.
hallelujah......A car reviewer that admits he turns off the BS "safety" systems instead of talking them up. 👍👍 Every car review should mention if they can be permanently disabled.
![Eminem - Temporary (feat. Skylar Grey) [Official Music Video]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/ZaK9Wi5ho0o/mqdefault.jpg)
Mine arrives on Friday the 21st.
I drove a Sportage seven years without any problems. Tires and battery changed.
At 64000 km an ABS sensor changed -warranty.
My experience with KIA warranted staying with the brand.
Great to hear. I’m sure they’ll be happy to have you back!
Just found your channel by accident, and I can say I have already watched few reviews non stop and your contents is GREAT! Mate please keep it up you’re a legend ⭐️👏
Thank you mate! Appreciate that. 😎
You nearly had me sold, until the road noise I heard in the background, the gear box n the servicing costs. Good review Matt. 👍🍻
I have this car and it isn't noisy at all ? Well I don't think so anyway
I've had a Stonic GT for over a year and i think he's overplaying the road noise. I haven't noticed it being "loud". and the ervicing starts at under $300 in year one. I love my GT! Just a joy to drive. as for the slow starts, just turn off the Stop Start in traffic, and anticipate the light changes. No prolem if you're paying atention...!
@@fialex9104thanks for the advice
I've actually got the Kia Stonic and I think it is a really good car
It is! You know they’re adding the turbo across the lineup?
@@therightcar 2023 my motor
Yes it is the turbo I have
The stop start doesn't bother me at all, not everyone launches their car at every intersection, I like the slow incline of power at take offs.
A Cerato is a better buy for most buyers but they will buy something like this instead.
10:36 love your commitment to the air quotes even when driving. Great review 👍
Thank you! 👍 Glad you enjoyed it.
The design has certainly stood the test of time and it remains an attractive design. It seems practical with decent seats and back seat space. The dual clutch seems adequate, but not great. A decent urban shopping/kids car. For me/us it’d possibly be an adequate second car for local shopping, etc, but we have a Skoda that fills that role. Kia makes good cars and this appears to be one of them. Road noise would be a deterrent for me, but the other benefits of this car might outweigh the deficits. Service costs are too high, and yes, it’d likely break the decision for me. I’d buy them the Skoda Kamiq I think, if I were in the market of course. A great review with excellent and balanced remarks on the, car as you always provide in every review. Thanks.
Had one of these 1.0l turbo Stonic overseas for about 10 days overseas. Same 7sp DCT. With Car Play used WAZE to navigate, my Spotify. Love that the cruise control is old style not ACC. My current VW is a 1.2l with very similar Kw and torque. Stonics get along very well and engine does not thrum too much. Had a TCross loan car when my VW was being serviced and honestly no interest, hated the VW.
Fair enough! Thanks for sharing
Bought the sports model about 18 months ago and love it. This car needs a proper torque converter auto. As seen in the review, the turbo lag and lack of torque converter in the gt line would be a total deal breaker for me. Just did a 200klm trip and got the fuel economy down to 5 litres per 100klm on highway with some very careful throttle control. Big mistake by kia dropping the proper auto option
And they are about to axe the smaller engine and auto in favour of a 1.0T and DCT across the range.
Just a note for all vw products crap reliability, the Kia is a great car and excellent jd power ratings.
One car you left off of this, the base automatic version of the Suzuki Vitara. Its got a larger more usable boot than this(even though its slighlty smaller), its more practical inside(the front door bins can take a 2l bottle) and the engine and transmission arent bad, its not the turbo but it can get the job done and its alot more livable and more exciting to drive than this. Plus you get keyless entry and push button start. Most importantly its in the same price range as this drive away.
If i were a bachelor who only goes around the city this would be a good, practical and economical car except for the Kia dealership servicing, but you can always have it serviced elsewhere.
You reckon you’d get much, er, attention driving this as a bachelor?
@@therightcar depends if you want attention. Not all bachelors are desperate to get a partner.
Turbo lag is a no sell for the wife where she normally drives in the suburbs.
Thanks for the review.
No worries!
The Mitsubishi ASX would be a better buy. The engine is better, the warranty is better. Longevity is better too.
Fair point. If you’re really on a budget and you’re okay with some, er, compromises, then it would be!
The Stonic is nice but how could you leave the Kia dealer and not buy the Cerato hatch instead?
A solid point. If you don’t want a lower, longer car, then the Stonic is smarter.
Happy with my brand new Mazda CX-3 because I wasn't willing to wait for delivery on the stonic
You dodged a bullet by buying the Mazda, a real auto transmission for a start.😊😊
Where i live, we have got highest variant i.e. Ex Plus for around USD 22,500 including tax and everything. But it comes with 1.4L NA engine, Auyomatic Gear Box (Torque Converter) and wireless Android Auto. We do not have lane assist, forward collision breaking or auto break. It costs around $60 every 5000 kms.
Shame they discontinued the lower specs, I have the base S manual and it’s great . A manual gets the most out of the 1.4 it’s zippy and responsive and the wireless CarPlay the best . Again shame the lower specs are no longer available
They aren’t discontinued altogether mate. The base versions will relaunch with the same 1.0L turbo as the GT-Line soon.
Im currently driving a rental skoda kamiq style and im really surpirised at how much im liking it. The laggy dsg on takeoff is a bit of a downer though.
Cool! Good little car.
use sport mode and turn off (on/off) feature, car starts in D1 (economy) on screen, pull back the Auto select when in drive and let go, your in S1,2,3 etc on screen, runs higher revs and change points (sport)
I suspect the real world fuel economy you got had more to do with you changing it from eco everytime you got in than being an exaggerated claim. I was going to buy a Cerato, but after hiring one, it was so low that I couldn't see more than the car in front most of the time and it felt a little unsafe because of that. The raised ride height is good, though I would have preferred the softer suspension tune that the 1.4L had. I hadn't considered the Volkswagen, I'll check that out. As far as expensive servicing goes to maintain the 7 year warranty. Those warranties only cover things that never break, I would just get it serviced at my regular mechanic. Thanks for the review, the in the Australian market. Keep up the good work Matt.
Just ordered a gt line on disability motability in uk I found it comfortable was it a good choice mine is like just under top spec costing me 75.75 per week
how long did it take for you to get the car from there or how long did they say?
I’ve just visited Kia today as I’m swapping my current Motability car (it’s too low). I love the look of the stonic and it seems to have everything my current car has plus the good height I’m looking for. Pleased you’ve got a car you like Nicholas, I’m hopefully ordering mine on Saturday.
@@Snow0147 I have waited 6 months , i am getting it on Thursday.
Can you get a folded wheelchair in the boot?
@markbassett195 I don't know I don't have one
Nah I would choose the MG ZST over this any day. My parents just ordered a top spec ZST Essence for $32,490 drive away and I couldn’t believe how good it was for the price. The little 1.3L turbo engine and conventional 6 speed auto are responsive off the line with none of the lag you get in the Kia. The huge panoramic sunroof with tilt and slide functionality is actually amazing, and it has decent tech like a 360 surround view camera and digital dash. It also has heated front seats and a good size boot with adjustable floor height. MG didn’t even skimp on the tyres with good quality Michelin rubber that offers good ride comfort and low road noise. It also has a 7 year warranty (plus an extra 3 year dealer warranty if serviced through them), with more affordable servicing costs than the Kia. I’m not sure why you’d choose the Kia over the MG, but my parents are very happy with their choice!
Glad your folks are happy with their car. It is a pretty highly specced affordable SUV - which is why it’s very popular!
Should I sell my Kia rio gt for that? please tell me lol
I heard a couple of separate accounts (on RUclips) that the brake pads and disks need replacing after only around 20,000 kms on the MG ZST. Hopefully not the case, or already been rectified for your parents sake.
this is not a SUV, it is just a Rio with some cosmetic changes
"small SUV"
Ford Australia is making terrible business decisions. Axing the puma is another example of their inability to provide sufficient products in their portfolio.
Yep, they have made some absolute shockers in recent years.
I like cargo nets. IMO they should be mandated on all cars.
What about a Skoda Kamiq? I think these are underrated
They are great cars. A little pricey, but like I mentioned, there’s a Run-Out model at $33k which is excellent.
I couldn’t decide between Kia stonic, Hyundai venue and VW T-Cross. I’m just myself and mainly city driving but do travel a bit and families visiting from overseas so wanting a bigger boot size. I like T-Cross but Venue seemed to offer the best value. Any suggestions?
Thanks for the question - I prefer the T-Cross in terms of the way it drives, and the powertrain is much more lively. It is a bit more expensive but it feels it.
However, have you see the Skoda Kamiq? The Runout model is $32,990 drive away with a 7 year warranty and a 400L boot. Roughly the same size as the others, too.
No I haven’t. Will check it out. What do you think of the resell value a few years down the track? A used car dealer told me VW don’t sell and depreciate quickly coz the maintenance can get quite pricey once the warranty period is gone.
Toyota Raize review please =)
Too expensive for a little town car with DCT. I'd buy the MG ZST 1.3 turbo with a torque converter auto transmission. I won't buy any vehicle that the stop/start cant be turned off.
Thanks for your thoughts, as always.
toyota yaris gross?
‘SUV’ still makes me laugh. Most of them are cars raised by 10mm - this is essentially a Rio on tiny stilts😂
You bet!
But they are categorised as such, and Aussies just haven’t cottoned on to the “crossover” term.
Mitsubishi asx?
A decent but thoroughly boring alternative. 😂
@@therightcar imo, simplicity is the attraction.
@@therightcaryeah but its solid, plus the price should be dropping soon since its future is unsure. Will it be replaced by the ugly Renault clone or will it be replaced by the new Xforce?
I would never buy a chinese car. My mum just bought this Kia ... seems good
Not a bad looking little car its a shame that with a lot of these new cars are hampered by their mechanics turbos requiring premium fuel higher service costs etc. dodgy Duel clutch transmissions eg Ford & VW. you wold think by now that car makers would be able to build something that shifts gears seamlessley and be reliable at the same time istead of using a gearbox that does not know wheather it is a auto or a manual. I am no mechanic but I drive a lot of different new cars for my work some are modern and comfy some are mechanically flawed. I do think this little car could do with a simple tried and tested automatic transmission or a six speed manual.
Yeah, a standard auto would be better. But dual-clutches offer efficiency benefits.
@@therightcarVitara has a standard 6 speed torque converter😊
Too expensive, the cheaper version made sense.
I’ve got a revised Stonic review (all turbo now) coming soon!!
I tested it but it is not comfortable at all
im 6'2" im sure i dont fit
Kia is Korean brand not Chinese
Yeah…?
hallelujah......A car reviewer that admits he turns off the BS "safety" systems instead of talking them up. 👍👍
Every car review should mention if they can be permanently disabled.
Thanks for that, many of them can’t be permanently disabled as legislation requires to default “on”.
4:21 spark 😮
I think it’s just a trick of the lighting / reflection.
Ridiculously expensive service costs. Do not buy a Kia until they stop ripping off the Australian public in their through life dollar grab.
Seven years of warranty and roadside doesn’t come free - it’s subsidised by the servicing costs.
Just get it serviced at a regular mechanic.
Only a lunatic would drive a VW