KIA STONIC

Ageing small crossover now looks like Kia's EVs – but remains old-school

- CHARLIE MARTIN

It's often suggested that the car industry has simply gone too far in embracing new technologies. Electrification is the buzzword of the moment, and all too many almost-great cars are let down by confusing user interfaces.

If you're one of those growing weary of this brave new world, I suggest you drive the new Kia Stonic. It may have the looks of a newfangled crossover inside and out, but it’s about as old-school as it gets this side of a six-figure price. You'll step inside and marvel over how you have to start it by turning a proper key, before dropping the handbrake - yes, an actual mechanical lever - and moving off. Some might accuse Kia of having been a bit tight in updating this eight-year-old crossover, but others will love its simplicity. And that plainness extends beyond the ergonomics, because this is a very easy car to specify. You can choose from one of two engines - both three-cylinder turbo petrols displacing a litre, one with a 48V mild-hybrid system. You can have either a six-speed manual or a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox, and there are three trims.