2026 Kia Stonic Facelift: Fresh Style and Tech Coming to Tynan Kia Sutherland

Kia is gearing up to refresh its smallest SUV once again, with the 2026 Kia Stonic facelift confirmed for Australian showrooms next year. This second major styling overhaul is set to breathe new life into Kia’s most affordable SUV, continuing its appeal as one of the last sub-$30,000 SUVs in the country.

At Tynan Kia Sutherland, we’re excited to bring you this upgraded model, which promises bold new design cues, more advanced tech, and potentially more fuel-efficient engine options for Australian drivers.

A New Look Inspired by Kia’s Flagships

Drawing styling inspiration from Kia’s flagship EV9 and compact EV5 models, the updated Kia Stonic 2026 will feature new front and rear lighting designs—mirroring the recent facelift on the Kia Picanto. While the core body shape remains familiar, the updated Stonic will deliver a more modern and upmarket road presence, sure to turn heads on city streets.

Enhanced Interior Tech on the Horizon

While official Australian specs are yet to be announced, overseas models suggest a potential cabin upgrade too. Larger 10.25-inch or even 12.3-inch infotainment screens, part of Kia’s latest tech offering, could be coming to the Kia Stonic for the first time.

Internationally, features like adaptive cruise control, rear cross-traffic alert, and a heated steering wheel are available but not yet offered locally—however, they may soon make their way to Australian models with this upcoming refresh.

A Smart, Efficient Drive

Since 2023, the Kia Stonic in Australia has been powered by a peppy 1.0-litre turbocharged three-cylinder engine, paired with a smooth seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. In Europe, this engine is offered with 48-volt mild hybrid technology, allowing for brief engine-off coasting and a slight performance boost under load.

While not a full hybrid, this tech helps reduce fuel consumption by around 5% and slightly cuts CO₂ emissions—a welcome benefit as Australia introduces tighter emissions standards for new cars.

Whether this engine tech will be available in Australia is yet to be confirmed, but its inclusion would further enhance the Stonic’s fuel efficiency and environmental credentials.

A Trusted Favourite with a Fresh Twist

Launched in Europe in 2017 and refreshed for Australia in 2021, the Kia Stonic has built a reputation for being a smart, compact SUV for urban drivers who want style, efficiency, and value. This second facelift aims to extend its life into the latter part of the decade, while maintaining its place as Kia’s best value SUV.

At Tynan Kia Sutherland, we’re proud to support the Stonic as it evolves into its next chapter. With its combination of city-friendly dimensions, smart tech, and affordable pricing, the 2026 Kia Stonic is shaping up to be an unbeatable choice for first-time buyers and city dwellers alike.

Coming to Tynan Kia Sutherland in 2026

The facelifted 2026 Kia Stonic is expected to arrive in Australian showrooms—including Tynan Kia Sutherland—within the next 12 months. Final specifications, features, and pricing will be revealed closer to its local launch.

Stay tuned and follow Tynan Kia Sutherland for the latest updates on the Kia Stonic range, and be the first to know when this exciting update hits our showroom floor.

Ensure you search the Tynan stock through our link here.

Credit: Drive.com.au