2026 Kia Stonic Mild-Hybrid: Electrification on the Horizon

Kia’s smallest SUV is set to receive a mild-hybrid (MHEV) powertrain in 2026, likely as part of an upcoming facelift. This move will finally introduce electrification to the Stonic lineup, bringing improved fuel efficiency and enhanced driving dynamics.

Kia Australia Keen on 48V Stonic

Speaking with CarExpert at the launch of the all-new Kia EV3, Roland Rivero, Kia Australia’s general manager for product planning, confirmed that the company has its hand up for the MHEV Stonic.

🗣️ “If we can make it happen, the sooner the better. It’s probably a next-year exercise.” – Roland Rivero

This marks a shift from November 2023, when Kia Australia ruled out the possibility of an electrified Stonic. Now, it seems plans are back on the table.

What’s Under the Hood?

The Stonic ‘EcoDynamics+’ mild-hybrid system will be based on the 1.0-litre turbocharged three-cylinder petrol engine, which is already available in Australia. However, the addition of a 48V mild-hybrid system will provide:

✅ Extended idle stop/start technology ✅ Coasting capability at speeds up to 125km/h ✅ Improved fuel efficiency

Overseas, the Stonic MHEV retains the same 74kW output but claims a 0.3L/100km reduction in fuel consumption (WLTP standard). While this doesn’t seem like a major improvement on paper, the real-world benefits—especially in urban stop-and-go traffic—could be more significant.

A Facelift in the Works

CarExpert also reports that the Stonic is due for a second facelift within the next 12 months, which would coincide with the mild-hybrid upgrade. The Stonic was originally launched in 2017 and first facelifted in 2021, when it arrived in Australia.

The update is expected to bring:

🔹 Styling tweaks 🔹 Technology upgrades 🔹 Efficiency improvements

Kia Australia has never offered a 48V MHEV version of the Stonic or its now-discontinued Rio sibling, instead opting for the torquier and more efficient 1.0L turbo engine introduced in 2024.

Why the Mild-Hybrid Matters

The light SUV segment is becoming increasingly electrified, with competitors like the Toyota Yaris Cross Hybrid and Jeep Avenger EV already offering hybrid or fully electric options. The mild-hybrid Stonic will ensure Kia has a (mild) electrified presence in the segment.

Meanwhile, Hyundai—Kia’s sister brand—is set to launch the fully electric Hyundai Inster, based on the Casper city car (which isn’t sold in Australia).

Coming Soon

With Kia Australia pushing for the Stonic mild-hybrid, expect more details to emerge soon. The facelifted Stonic could be revealed in late 2025, with a 2026 market launch.

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Credit: CarExpert.com.au