7 Features Tata Nexon Facelift Gets Over The Kia Sonet

Both subcompact SUVs are well-equipped, but the Nexon facelift gets these features over the Sonet

The Tata Nexon facelift has been launched with comprehensive styling and feature updates, along with a couple more transmission options, including a 7-speed dual clutch transmission (DCT). Tata’s updated subcompact SUV goes head to head with the Kia Sonet, which also gets a host of premium features and multiple powertrain options but misses out on some amenities that are now included in the updated Nexon. Let’s explore what the 2023 Nexon has to offer over the Sonet.

A Proper Digital Driver’s Display

The 2023 Nexon has received a significant update in the form of a 10.25-inch digital driver’s display. In contrast, the Kia Sonet features a semi-digital instrument cluster with a 4.2-inch multi-information display.

The Sonet’s MID displays data such as average fuel economy, distance to empty, turn-by-turn navigation, trip information, and tyre pressure. In contrast, the Nexon’s unit not only displays detailed information with vivid graphics but also allows you to sync your navigation from Apple Maps or Google Maps via CarPlay and Android Auto, showing the map screen directly on the driver’s display.

360-degree Camera With Blind-spot Monitor

Another notable feature in the updated Nexon, setting it apart from the Kia Sonet, is the 360-degree camera . Although it’s not the first subcompact SUV to offer this feature (the Nissan Magnite already does), the Nexon further offers a blind-view monitor. This feature works in tandem with turn signals and the blind view monitor comes on the infotainment screen.

Also read: The New Tata Nexon Gets These 5 Features Over The Maruti Brezza

Height-adjustable Co-driver’s Seat

The Tata Nexon offers height adjustments for both the driver and co-driver’s seats, while the Kia Sonet only provides height adjustment for the driver’s seat. However, it’s worth noting that the Sonet includes a powered driver’s seat feature, which is not available in the updated Tata Nexon.

More Speakers

Though the Kia Sonet gets a branded 7-speaker Bose audio system, the 2023 Nexon’s branded JBL audio system comprises 4 speakers, 4 tweeters and a subwoofer. More speakers usually translates to an enhanced audio experience, but we’ll reserve our final judgement till we test them out back-to-back.

Rain-sensing Wipers

The 2023 Tata Nexon retains the rain-sensing wipers feature from its pre-facelift version. In contrast, the Sonet does not offer this feature. Additionally, it’s worth noting that the updated Tata Nexon has its rear wiper concealed beneath the spoiler, while the Sonet’s rear wiper is conventionally mounted and visually exposed on the rear glass, just above the bootlid.

Also read: 7 Features Tata Nexon Facelift Gets Over Hyundai Venue

Six Airbags As Standard

The Kia Sonet got six airbags with its top-spec variant since launch, and currently it is being offered four airbags standard. Tata’s subcompact SUV was earlier only offered with dual-front airbags as standard when it scored a 5-star safety rating as per the old GNCAP crash tests, but with the update it now gets six airbags across all variants for increased occupant protection.

A Proper Manual Transmission With Diesel

A feature now exclusive to the Kia Sonet in this segment is the 6-speed iMT (manual without clutch pedal) and it is now the only “manual” option for the diesel-powered variants. While it does have its benefits, many buyers may prefer a more familiar manual transmission setup, and that’s exactly what the 2023 Tata Nexon’s diesel models can offer.

The Nexon’s 1.5-litre diesel unit can be had with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed AMT transmission. While the Kia Sonet’s diesel offers the choice of a 6-speed torque converter automatic transmission.

Prices

The Tata Nexon facelift is priced from Rs 8.10 lakh to Rs 15.50 lakh (introductory), whereas the Kia retails the Sonet in the price range of Rs 7.79 lakh to Rs 14.89 lakh (all prices are ex-showroom). Both of these SUVs rival the Maruti Brezza, Hyundai Venue, Mahindra XUV300, Renault Kiger and Nissan Magnite.

It’s worth noting that Kia is currently testing the facelifted Sonet, set to be launched in 2024. With this update, we anticipate the Kia Sonet to become even more feature-rich compared to its current version.

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