2026 Kia Stonic: Mild-Hybrid Tech on the Horizon | Coming Soon to Tynan Kia Sutherland

At Tynan Kia Sutherland, we’re excited to share big news about Kia’s smallest and most stylish SUV. The 2026 Kia Stonic is expected to receive a mild-hybrid powertrain update in Australia – a key step in reducing emissions and improving efficiency ahead of Australia’s new New Vehicle Efficiency Standard (NVES) regulations.

A Greener Future for the Kia Stonic

The Kia Stonic has long been a favourite in the light SUV category, combining compact city-friendly dimensions with bold design and impressive tech. As of 2026, it’s likely to evolve even further by introducing 48-volt mild-hybrid technology to Australian roads – a feature already offered in European markets since 2020.

While not a full hybrid like the Toyota Yaris Cross, the Stonic’s EcoDynamics+ mild-hybrid system allows the petrol engine to switch off during coasting and delivers a slight power boost when needed. This results in up to 5% improved fuel economy (about 0.3L/100km reduction in fuel use) and lower CO2 emissions – trimming output from 135g/km to 129g/km based on WLTP testing.

“Every vehicle line has to think about the future and do its part for NVES as well, so that includes Stonic,” says Roland Rivero, Head of Product at Kia Australia.

What’s Coming to the 2026 Kia Stonic?

The updated Kia Stonic, arriving next year at Tynan Kia Sutherland, is expected to bring:

• Mild-hybrid petrol power via 48V EcoDynamics+ technology
• A facelift with refreshed front and rear styling
• Continued focus on fuel efficiency and emissions reduction
• Retention of the 1.0L turbo three-cylinder engine, after phasing out the 1.4L four-cylinder in 2024
• Advanced features in a compact, city-ready package

While not a full electric vehicle or hybrid in the traditional sense, the upcoming Kia Stonic mild-hybrid is designed to be smarter and more efficient without changing the fun-to-drive personality that Australian drivers love.

Still a Strong Player in the Light SUV Segment

Despite being discontinued in South Korea, the Kia Stonic remains a popular choice in Australia, accounting for around one in every eight city-sized SUVs sold. At Tynan Kia Sutherland, we’re seeing continued interest from urban drivers and first-time SUV buyers looking for something compact, stylish, and economical.

Rivero made it clear:

“We have no desire to kill it off anytime soon… If you want longevity in Stonic, you’re going to have to do the right thing by that vehicle.”

This means not only maintaining the Stonic in Kia’s lineup but also future-proofing it with technologies that meet Australia’s changing emissions targets.

Register Your Interest at Tynan Kia Sutherland

Whether you’re looking to upgrade your current vehicle or join the growing list of Kia SUV owners, now’s the time to explore what the Kia Stonic has to offer. With a mild-hybrid version coming soon, there’s never been a better moment to choose style with substance.

📍 Visit Tynan Kia Sutherland today to learn more, view our current Kia Stonic range, or register your interest in the upcoming 2026 update.

Ensure you search the Tynan stock through our link here.

Credit: Drive.com.au