Want a compact SUV that isn’t made in China? Kia Australia has confirmed pricing for the updated Stonic ‘PE2’ for 2026, bringing mild-hybrid tech to its smallest SUV just as it lands in showrooms this month.
The refreshed range keeps the familiar three-tier line-up – with S, Sport, and GT-Line – but now adds a 48-volt mild-hybrid electrical system across the board to match styling updates.
Although its hatch companion, the Rio, has been discontinued, the Stonic perseveres with styling refreshments which bring it into line with the EV3 and EV5, with sharp LEDs bracketing the top edge of the grille, clean and minimalist surfacing and a concentric rectangular lower grille motif.
The rear, in particular, is reminiscent of the EV5, with the two-tone wheels also borrowing heavily from Kia’s electric range to assert a more tech-focused look.
The interior will also feature a heavily updated appearance with the attractive steering wheel designs seen on other models, with an offset Kia logo. Behind the wheel is a big twin-screen display. Surprisingly, a conventional gear shifter on the console remains.
This will be a refreshing upgrade from the Rio-era carryover interior which had a dreadful air of rental car about it and was falling off the pace compared with new Chinese rivals. Material quality appears to have been boosted significantly, with nice textures for seating. Hopefully the GT-Line also includes paddle shifters.
Final specifications haven’t been finalised here, but overseas, the Stonic in this configuration produces 84.5kW and 172Nm from the 1.0-litre turbo three-cylinder, and drinks 5.6L/100km.
The new model is on sale now, with showroom arrivals scheduled for later this month. Prices start from the following (excluding on-road costs):
2026 Kia Stonic S 1.0T-GDi: $28,180
2026 Kia Stonic Sport 1.0T-GDi: $32,290
2026 Kia Stonic GT-Line 1.0T-GDi: $35,740
