Trunk comparison: Kia Stonic vs Renault Austral
Summary of the Biggest Differences
The Renault Austral offers 9.1 in (17%) longer cargo space with the seats folded down than the Kia Stonic and is also 6.7 in (25%) longer with the first row of seats upright. The loading opening of the Austral is 5.1 in (13%) wider than that of the Stonic.
In contrast, the Kia Stonic has a significantly larger trunk depth recess: the depth (loading edge to trunk floor) is 3.9 in (125%) greater than in the Austral.
Smaller differences: the trunk opening of the Stonic is 2.4 in (8%) higher, the narrowest interior width is 2.4 in (6%) larger in the Stonic, and the loading edge of the Austral is only 0.4 in (1%) higher above the ground.
What Impact Do These Differences Have on Usability?
The longer loading length of the Austral (both with folded and upright seats) clearly makes it more practical for long items like skis, slatted frames, or long furniture parts. Those who frequently transport longer loads benefit from the Austral because larger items can be more easily and fully loaded.
The 5.1 in wider loading opening of the Austral makes it easier to load wide luggage or bulky panels and reduces the risk of catching on the opening.
However, the narrowest interior width in the Austral (6% narrower than in the Stonic) is a limitation: very wide items that need to go deep into the trunk may encounter tighter space further inside despite the wider opening.
The significantly greater depth in the Kia Stonic means its loading floor lies deeper below the loading edge. Practically, this means there is more of a "recess" in the trunk, so items lie deeper and are less visible — good for loose cargo or to conceal volume.
At the same time, a deeper recess can make loading heavy items more difficult because more lifting effort is required. Combined with the slightly higher opening height of the Stonic (2.4 in), the Stonic is better suited for somewhat taller items that need to fit through the opening.
The minimally higher loading edge of the Austral (+0.4 in) is negligible in everyday use; it only makes lifting slightly more strenuous.
Overall: those who want to load longer and wider items as easily as possible benefit from the Renault Austral; those who prefer a deeper loading well, a bit more interior width at the narrowest point, and a slightly higher opening height find practical advantages in the Kia Stonic.