Aluminium roof rails and sporty face, the new appeal of KIA Stonic

A car which is designed solely for the European market is surprisingly put on sale in its country of origin due to public demand and that says a lot about its appeal.

The KIA Stonic 1.0 T-GDI in its first instance was designed for buyers in the west but when it went on show in South Korea where the demand for it went so high that the carmaker expresses to change its plan.

Designed in Frankfurt with a fair help from Korea the KIA Stonic is a cool, trendy little car which has instant visual appeal.

A sporty face and distinctive brushed aluminium roof rails have added an instant appeal.

The model comes with two-tone paintwork as standard with the roof, rear spoiler and door mirror in a contrasting colour to the body which immediately lifts the appearance of the car.

In the generously proportioned cabin, there's a clean, sharp appearance with leather-look two-tone upholstery, aluminium pedals and a user-friendly dashboard with everything falling readily to hand.

In the centre of the dashboard - at the same height as the other main instruments for easy reading - is a seven-inch touch screen for satellite navigation and numerous on board features. It also acts as the monitor for the crystal clear colour reversing camera.

There's also high beam assist on the headlights, a hill holder clutch, push-button start/stop and keyless entry.

It's powered by a 1.0-litre, 118bhp, three-cylinder engine mated to a six-speed manual gearbox.

The best thing about this car is its fun drive, light and easy to handle with pin-sharp steering and amazing feel of stability at high speed on the highway.