Kia Stonic Vs Kia Rio Comparison

Kia Stonic
Kia Stonic
VS

Kia Rio
Kia Rio

This is Kia Stonic Vs Kia Rio comparison for 2021. We’ve finally been able to get a showroom comparison for the new Stonic and Rio models on the same day so here are our impressions. The Kia Rio is a traditional small car and hatchback that’s been around for since 2017 while the Stonic has been developed directly from the Rio is the ‘SUV or high rise version’. It is not unusual for Kia to release high rise versions of their existing cars and market them as an SUV.

Kia Stonic Vs Kia Rio exterior comparison: You’d be lying if you didn’t notice that these two models where related. Apart from the ride height on the Stonic the only other noticeable difference is the additional door metal wins that actually resemble a 12 year old Corolla … Of course there are panel differences but between the two models and the requisite black plastic cladding but not really enough to differentiate them. The Stonic raised ride height make this a high rise hatch back not an SUV. The Rio/Stonic design is one of first of Kia’s latest styling theme and it does look quite good in a conservative fashion. In fact the top range Kia Rio has a VW-ish GTi look but only on the outside.

Kia Stonic Vs Kia Rio interior comparison: The interiors are basically identical with some different trim pieces. So if you  prefer one trim over the other you can always buy the appropriate trim piece. The interior is entry level in terms of look and feel but design is modern best described as decent for it’s price tag.  The only issue – we don’t like is the ‘tablet’ style stereo system which means that most will be stuck with ordinary sound quality.

Kia Stonic Vs Kia Rio engine and technology comparison: The safety systems are class average for 2020 and behind more modern competitors like the Yaris Cross for example. Auto brakes are not standard amongst omitted features which is poor since the cheaper Picanto has it has standard. The engines are modern but there’s not much power spare for anything to be honest. The engines are shared with the even smaller Picanto.

Kia Stonic Vs Kia Rio drive report : N/A

The conclusion and winner of the Kia Stonic Vs Kia Rio comparison is a draw. The differences between the two are ride height and some trim on the  outside. The Rio is about $3000 cheaper for the base models rising to about $5000 for the top of range. No, we don’t think the Stonic is worth the price difference. As both the are mechanically identical bar the ride height so you’d really have to want the 3-4cm ride height to pay the extra. That said if you way prefer the way the Rio looks… A $1000 across the board it arguably the most compelling price difference.

Kia Stonic Kia Rio
Engines
3 Cylinder – Petrol
1.00 Litre (998cc)
DOHC VVT EFI Turbo
Claimed 74Kw @ 6000RPM
Claimed 172Nm @ 1500RPM
3 Cylinder – Petrol
1.00 Litre (998cc)
DOHC VVT EFI Turbo
Claimed 74Kw @ 6000RPM
Claimed 172Nm @ 1500RPM
4 Cylinder
1.4 Litre (1368cc)
DOHC DI CR
Claimed 74Kw @ 3800RPM
Claimed 133Nm @ 1750RPM
4 Cylinder
1.4 Litre (1368cc)
DOHC DI CR
Claimed 74Kw @ 3800RPM
Claimed 133Nm @ 1750RPM
Weight
Kerb weight FROM 1160Kg
Towing capacity up to 900Kg
Kerb weight FROM 1160Kg
Towing capacity up to 900Kg
Fuel capacity & consumption
Up to 45 litres
IL3 1.0 Turbo Petrol 5.4 litres per 100km
IL4 1.4 Petrol 6 litres per 100km
Up to 45 litres
IL3 1.0 Turbo Petrol 5.3 litres per 100km
IL4 1.4 Petrol 6 litres per 100km
Other specifications
6 Speed Auto or Manual + 7 Speed Auto DCT
Overall height/width 1520/1760
Overall length/wheelbase 4140/2580
4WD system: None
ANCAP Safety: x/x
6 Speed Auto or Manual + 7 Speed Auto DCT
Overall height/width 1450/1725
Overall length/wheelbase 4065/2580
4WD system: None
ANCAP Safety: x/x
Capability
Angle of: (degrees)
Approach xx Departure xx Breakover xx
Ground clearance (unloaded) 183 mm
Water Fording depth xxmm Max
Angle of: (degrees)
Approach xx Departure xx Breakover xx
Min ground clearance 140mm
Water Fording depth xxxmm Max
Performance
Pricing
2021 $23,490 – 30,490 AUD 2021 $19,990 – 24,990 AUD
*Specs change due to model grade and configuration. Always check with the dealer for up to date pricing, specifications, on-road costs, accessories and specials etc.. everything as usual is subject to change!