The new teaser reconfirms the supply of a 360-degree digital camera, and related LED taillights
The Sonet will get its first main overhaul quickly.
New teaser additionally reveals the revised grille and longer fang-shaped LED DRLs.
Cabin modifications might embody a contemporary upholstery and local weather management panel.
Will get two 10.25-inch shows, sunroof, six airbags (as commonplace), and ADAS.
To stick with it with the outgoing mannequin’s powertrain choices; diesel-MT combo to return.
Launch anticipated in early 2024; costs might begin from Rs 8 lakh (ex-showroom).
The facelifted Kia Sonet is ready to debut on December 14. But forward of that, the carmaker has launched a few teasers already. Kia has now put out one other teaser, which provides us a fast have a look at the brand new SUV (proven in sketches as effectively).
What Can Be Observed?
In the teaser, we are able to discover the revised multi-reflector LED headlights and the longer fang-shaped LED DRLs. Up entrance, you can too see the redesigned grille housing the entrance digital camera and the tweaked bumper with the entrance parking sensors. It additionally confirmed the up to date rear of the SUV which sports activities a brand new related LED tail lamp setup.
Expected Cabin And Feature Updates
Although the newest teaser doesn’t present the inside of the 2024 Kia Sonet, earlier spy pictures and teasers have already hinted in the direction of the opportunity of it having a refreshed upholstery and local weather management panel.
While its 10.25-inch touchscreen system was confirmed within the earlier teaser, the brand new Sonet is ready to get the identical 10.25-inch digital driver’s show because the Seltos and a 360-degree digital camera as effectively. It will proceed to be supplied with a sunroof, ventilated entrance seats, wi-fi cellphone charging, and cruise management.
Its security internet will get the addition of superior driver help programs (ADAS), extra particulars of which can be found in our ‘new Sonet’s ADAS features explained’ story. Other security tech on board will embody six airbags (as commonplace), digital stability management (ESC), ISOFIX baby seat mounts, and hill-hold help.
The new Sonet will proceed to be supplied with each petrol and diesel powertrain choices as earlier than. However, with the facelift, Kia can be bringing again the diesel-MT combo.
Specification
1.2-litre N.A. Petrol
1-litre Turbo-petrol
1.5-litre Diesel
Power
83 PS
120 PS
116 PS
Torque
115 Nm
172 Nm
250 Nm
Transmission
5-speed MT
6-speed iMT, 7-speed DCT
6-speed MT (new), 6-speed iMT, 6-speed AT
Expected Launch And Price
The Kia Sonet facelift will likely be launched in early 2024 with costs prone to begin from Rs 8 lakh (ex-showroom). It will proceed to go up in opposition to the Tata Nexon, Maruti Brezza, Hyundai Venue, Mahindra XUV300, Renault Kiger, and Nissan Magnite.
It embraces the “wild” side of the tagline with its new headlights, LED DRLs, and bumper design
New Kia Sonet entrance design leaked forward of its official India-spec debut.
Gets a tweaked grille, all-new lighting setup and restyled bumpers.
Feature updates teased embrace a digital driver’s show and ADAS.
No adjustments to the engine choices, however the diesel choice good points a transmission alternative.
2024 Sonet anticipated to launch early subsequent 12 months with a slight premium for the updates.
The Kia Sonet facelift is scheduled to debut in India on December 14, 2023. While we’ve got been proven teasers of the brand new design and have updates, many particulars have began to floor on-line by way of leaks. The newest one has revealed your entire entrance of the brand new Sonet.
How’s The New Look?
The Kia Sonet was at all times a premium-looking sub-4m SUV since its debut in 2020, however the facelifted model seems to be sharper and sportier. Overall, the fascia of the 2024 Sonet has sharper particulars than earlier than with the tweaked grille, reshaped bumper, and the brand new headlights that now have elongated fang-like DRLs. The entrance skid plate additionally has a sportier form and the air dam design has hexagonal shapes.
The new Sonet’s rear, revealed within the official Kia teaser, showcased the brand new linked LED rear lights, now stacked vertically like on the Kia Seltos facelift. It additionally will get freshly styled alloy wheels however they nonetheless appear to be 16-inch items.
Expected Feature & Interior Updates
Kia has already revealed that the 2024 Sonet will include a ten.25-inch digital driver’s show as a part of its up to date options set, whereas a 360-degree digicam can be anticipated.
Internally, the Sonet facelift will retain the present mannequin’s 10.25-inch touchscreen system whereas doubtless incorporating a brand new local weather management panel and seat upholstery. Other choices will persist, reminiscent of ventilated entrance seats, wi-fi telephone charging, cruise management, a sunroof, and auto local weather management.
In addition to ADAS, the protection bundle might embrace six airbags (now customary), digital stability management (ESC), entrance and rear parking sensors, and hill-hold help.
The 2024 Kia Sonet will stick to the identical three engine choices because the outgoing mannequin, with one small change. Here are the main points:
Specifications
1.2-litre Petrol
1-litre Turbo-petrol
1.5-litre Diesel
Power
83 PS
120 PS
116 PS
Torque
115 Nm
172 Nm
250 Nm
Transmission
5-speed MT
6-speed iMT/ 7-speed DCT
6-speed MT/ 6-speed iMT/ 6-speed AT
Expected Launch and Price
The Kia Sonet facelift is because of make its market entry in early 2024 with an anticipated beginning value of Rs 8 lakh (ex-showroom). The top-spec variants will doubtless entice a hefty premium for the added options that will probably be on provide. With its refreshed seems to be and added comforts, the 2024 Sonet will probably be higher geared up to proceed rivalling the Hyundai Venue, Tata Nexon, Maruti Brezza, Mahindra XUV300, Nissan Magnite, and Renault Kiger.
The facelifted Kia Sonet might be unveiled on December 14 and can go on sale someday in early 2024
Kia launched the Sonet in 2020 in India, now giving the SUV its first correct replace.
To get a revised grille, related LED hind lights, and redesigned alloy wheels.
Cabin updates may embrace a digital driver’s show and new seat upholstery.
Expected to return with a ten.25-inch touchscreen, 6 normal airbags and ADAS.
To be powered by the identical petrol and diesel engines because the outgoing mannequin.
Prices may begin from Rs 8 lakh (ex-showroom).
The facelifted India-spec Kia Sonet is about to debut on December 14. Kia not too long ago confirmed the identical and even gave us a sneak peek of the up to date SUV. Now, a couple of dealerships have began accepting offline bookings for the brand new Sonet. Here’s what’s recognized to this point:
Expected Set Of Powertrains
We usually are not anticipating any main adjustments to the powertrains of Kia’s sub-4m SUV. Even with the replace, it ought to proceed with the identical choices as under:
Specifications
1.2-litre N.A. Petrol
1-litre Turbo-petrol
1.5-litre Diesel
Power
83 PS
120 PS
116 PS
Torque
115 Nm
172 Nm
250 Nm
Transmission
5-speed MT
6-speed iMT/ 7-speed DCT
6-speed iMT/ 6-speed AT
There have been stories on-line suggesting the potential of Kia re-introducing a 6-speed handbook gearbox with the diesel engine as a substitute of the iMT (handbook with out clutch pedal). However, we might suggest holding on for some time to see if that involves fruition on the facelifted SUV.
A Fresh Look
Kia has sharpened the outside design of the Sonet with the midlife replace by giving it longer fang-shaped LED DRLs, a revised grille and repositioned LED fog lamps. Other exterior adjustments will embrace a distinct set of alloy wheels and related LED hind lights.
How Different Will It Be On The Inside?
We anticipate the carmaker to present the 2024 Sonet a brand new seat upholstery and local weather management panel. The facelifted SUV’s teaser confirmed it had the identical 10.25-inch touchscreen because the outgoing mannequin.
What Other Features Can You Expect?
New options on board the facelifted Sonet will seemingly embrace a digital driver’s show (from the brand new Seltos) and a 360-degree digital camera. Kia will proceed to supply the SUV with wi-fi cellphone charging, ventilated entrance seats, a single-pane sunroof, and cruise management.
Its security package is predicted to pack six airbags as normal, entrance and rear parking sensors, hill-hold help, and perhaps even superior driver help methods (ADAS).
The Kia Sonet facelift is predicted to be priced from Rs 8 lakh (ex-showroom) when it goes on sale in early 2024. It will proceed to compete with the Hyundai Venue, Maruti Brezza, Tata Nexon, Mahindra XUV300, Nissan Magnite, Renault Kiger and Maruti Fronx crossover.
The Kia Sonet is getting its first proper mid-life refresh with most of the changes focused around its exterior design and feature list
The Kia Sonet facelift has just been teased for the first time ahead of its India debut. It’s the first thorough update for the SUV since it went on sale back in 2020, which marked Kia’s entry into the sub-4m space. Here’s what you can expect from the updated Kia SUV:
Design Revisions Inside And Out
Based on the previous spy shots and the official teaser, Kia has made most of the revisions to the SUV’s exterior. These include an updated grille, fresh LED headlights with longer fang-shaped LED DRLs, and a restyled front bumper housing sleek LED fog lamps.
Its profile will only see one big change in the form of a different alloy wheel design. At the back, we are expecting the 2024 Kia Sonet to have a connected LED taillight setup same as the new Kia Seltos, and a refreshed bumper.
The only big changes expected on the inside are a new climate control panel and revised upholstery. Its recent teaser confirmed the 2024 Sonet will be fitted with the same 10.25-inch touchscreen system as the outgoing model.
Tech On Board
Kia is expected to offer the new Sonet with a 360-degree camera and a semi-digital driver’s display. The existing model’s equipment such as the wireless phone charging, single-pane sunroof, ventilated front seats, and cruise control will likely be carried forward.
The sub-4m SUV’s safety kit will likely comprise six airbags (as standard), front and rear parking sensors, ISOFIX child seat anchorages, and even advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS).
Changes Under Its Hood?
The facelifted Sonet won’t get any changes under the hood over the outgoing model. Its engine-gearbox options will include:
Specification
1.2-litre Petrol
1-litre Turbo-petrol
1.5-litre Diesel
Power
83 PS
120 PS
116 PS
Torque
115 Nm
172 Nm
250 Nm
Transmission
5-speed MT
6-speed iMT, 7-speed DCT
6-speed iMT, 6-speed AT
We would like to note that there were unconfirmed reports that Kia could bring back a conventional manual transmission option for the diesel engine to replace the iMT (manual without clutch pedal) option. If you are considering a new sub-compact SUV with a diesel-manual option, we would recommend waiting to see if Kia does make that change with the facelifted Sonet.
Competition Check
Kia’s updated SUV will continue to be a part of the crowded sub-4m SUV space, hence rivaling the Maruti Brezza, Hyundai Venue, Tata Nexon, Mahindra XUV300, Nissan Magnite, Renault Kiger and the Maruti Fronx crossover.
The facelifted Sonet will be revealed in India on December 14
Kia introduced the Sonet in India back in 2020.
The first teaser highlights the updated grille, LED DRLs, headlights, and fog lamps.
Possible cabin updates may involve new upholstery and a revised climate control panel.
New features may include a 360-degree camera and potentially ADAS.
It will carry over the existing Sonet’s petrol and diesel engine-gearbox options.
Expected starting price is around Rs 8 lakh (ex-showroom).
Recently, Kia confirmed the unveiling date of the Kia Sonet facelift by releasing the first teaser of the updated SUV.
Details Observed
The teaser provides a preview of the facelifted SUV’s front end, showcasing a modified grille design, sharper multi-reflector LED headlight clusters, and fang-shaped LED DRLs. Additionally, it reveals a different front bumper design with sleeker LED fog lamps compared to the current model’s halogen projector units.
Furthermore, the teaser reveals a revised alloy wheel design, blacked-out ORVM housings, and a black roof. The details of the rear end are yet to be disclosed, but it is expected to feature a connected LED taillight setup similar to the facelifted Kia Seltos.
Cabin And Feature Changes
While the exterior sees significant changes, the interior of the new Kia Sonet is not expected to undergo major modifications. However, Kia might introduce fresh upholstery and potentially revamp the climate control panel. The teaser also confirms the presence of the same 10.25-inch infotainment screen and central AC vents as the current model.
It is anticipated that the facelifted Sonet will come equipped with a semi-digital instrument cluster and a 360-degree camera. Apart from these, the Sonet will continue to offer features such as ventilated front seats, wireless phone charging, cruise control, and a single-pane sunroof.
In terms of safety, Kia may offer six airbags as standard, a tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS), front and rear parking sensors, as well as advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS).
Familiar Driving Force
The facelifted Kia Sonet will retain the current model’s powertrain options, including a 1.2-litre petrol engine, a 1-litre turbo-petrol engine, and a 1.5-litre diesel engine, all paired with various gearbox options.
When it goes on sale early next year, the 2024 Kia Sonet is anticipated to start at a price of Rs 8 lakh (ex-showroom). It will continue to compete against the Tata Nexon, Hyundai Venue, Maruti Brezza, Mahindra XUV300, Renault Kiger, Nissan Magnite, and the Maruti Fronx crossover.
The Kia Sonet was released in 2020 in India and is getting its first major update
The changes include a redesigned grille, updated LED DRLs, and new connected LED tail lamps.
The interior will mostly stay the same, except for a new climate control panel and a fresh cabin theme.
Potential additions might include a semi-digital instrument cluster, 360-degree camera, and ADAS tech.
The Kia Sonet facelift will retain the same petrol and diesel powertrains as the current model.
The Kia Sonet facelift will be revealed on December 14 in India, with the price announcement scheduled for early 2024. This marks the first significant update for the popular sub-4m SUV since its launch in 2020. Overall, the smaller sibling borrows styling elements from the larger Seltos.
Kia Sonet Facelift Exteriors
The Kia Sonet facelift has been seen testing several times, with the China-spec model even spotted without any camouflage. The main design changes include a new grille with inserts, updated LED headlamps, and extended DRLs. However, the fog lamps are omitted in favor of a new air dam along with a reprofiled bumper.
On the side profile, the only updates are in the form of new alloy wheels, while the rear features new connected LED tail lamps similar to the Seltos and a new bumper.
Kia Sonet Facelift Interior Updates
The new Sonet is expected to continue without any major revisions to the dashboard design. The center portion houses a floating touchscreen infotainment, while minor updates made to the AC controls can be noticed. Other cabin updates will likely include the provision of a semi-digital instrument cluster and a new black and tan cabin theme.
Features of the Kia Sonet Facelift
Aside from the new instrument cluster, we expect Kia to equip the new Sonet with a 360-degree camera system as well. The sub-4m SUV’s feature set already includes wireless phone charging, sunroof, ventilated front seats, and cruise control, all likely to be carried over from the current model.
In terms of safety, the Kia Sonet facelift will get six airbags, front and rear parking sensors, TPMS (tyre pressure monitoring system), and advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) as seen on its sibling, the Hyundai Venue.
Mechanically, the Kia Seltos facelift will remain unchanged. It will continue with the current model’s engine options:the 120 PS 1-liter turbo-petrol, the 116 PS 1.5-liter diesel, and the 83 PS 1.2-liter N.A. (naturally aspirated) petrol. Transmission options include a 6-speed iMT and 7-speed DCT for the turbo petrol, a 6-speed iMT and a 6-speed AT for the diesel, and a 5-speed MT for the N.A. petrol.
Kia Sonet Facelift Rivals and Price Expectation
With the new feature additions, we can expect a slight increase in the price of the current model, which is currently available from Rs 7.79 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi). The Kia Sonet facelift will continue to compete against the Hyundai Venue, Tata Nexon, Maruti Suzuki Brezza, Mahindra XUV300, Renault Kiger, and Nissan Magnite.
The Kia Sonet experienced the best month-on-month sales growth for the festive period
The demand for sub-4m SUVs increased during the festive period in October 2023, with the Tata Nexon and Maruti Brezza leading the sales charts by crossing the 16,000 sales mark. Here are the model-wise sales details from the previous month:
Sub-compact SUVs & crossovers
October 2023
September 2023
MoM Growth
Market share current(%)
Market share (% last year)
YoY mkt share (%)
Average sales (6 months)
Tata Nexon
16887
15325
10.19
28.44
26.12
2.32
13163
Maruti Brezza
16050
15001
6.99
27.03
18.86
8.17
13655
Hyundai Venue
11581
12204
-5.1
19.5
18.19
1.31
10893
Kia Sonet
6493
4984
30.27
10.93
14.44
-3.51
6511
Mahindra XUV300
4865
4961
-1.93
8.19
11.92
-3.73
4961
Nissan Magnite
2573
2454
4.84
4.33
5.34
-1.01
2487
Renault Kiger
912
980
-6.93
1.53
5.09
-3.56
1279
Total
59361
55909
6.17
Key Takeaways
Tata Nexon’s demand in October 2023 grew by over 10 percent month-on-month (MoM). This includes the sales of the Nexon EV as well. The Nexon facelift received positive feedback with its refreshed design, added comforts, and new features.
Maruti Brezza remains highly popular with 16,050 units sold, experiencing MoM growth of just under 7 percent. It holds a 27 percent market share, marking an improvement of over 8 percent year-on-year (YoY).
Hyundai Venue is the only other model in the segment to exceed 10,000 monthly sales, although its MoM sales performance dropped by 5 percent. The Kia Sonet saw the highest MoM sales growth in October 2023 at 30 percent with close to 6,500 units sold.
The Mahindra XUV300 maintained steady demand during the festive period with just under 5,000 units sold in the previous month.
Nissan Magnite’s demand rose by close to 5 percent during October 2023 with just over 2,500 units, while the Renault Kiger continues to see sales of less than 1,000 units. The Kiger’s MoM performance was nearly 7 percent lower and currently holds a market share of less than 2 percent.
Overall, the subcompact SUV space saw an MoM growth of just over 6 percent.
The Sonet facelift is expected to go on sale sometime in early 2024
It will be the first major overhaul for Kia’s sub-4m SUV.
New spy video shows black and tan seat upholstery, and redone climate control panel.
Likely to get redesigned grille, fresh alloy wheels, and connected LED taillights.
Feature additions are likely to include front parking sensors, 360-degree camera and ADAS tech.
To be offered with multiple powertrain options including a turbo-petrol engine and a diesel unit.
One of the best-equipped models in the sub-4m SUV space, the Kia Sonet, is expected to receive a heavy midlife refresh by early next year. The facelifted SUV has been sighted on trials a few times on our soil but the latest spy video gives us a first look at its updated interior, at least for a well-equipped Tech Line variant.
Changes Seen
The first thing you will notice is the overall dashboard layout still being mostly the same as seen in the current version. Two important revisions visible are the new climate control panel, and a fresh black and tan seat upholstery.
Exterior changes observed in the video include an updated set of LED headlights, a redesigned grille, a new alloy wheel design, and connected LED taillights with a design inspired by those on the 2023 Kia Seltos.
Previously spied test mules had confirmed a GT Line variant for the updated Sonet as well as it had red brake callipers and differently designed alloy wheels.
Expected Features Set
We also believe the Kia Sonet facelift will come with a semi-digital instrument cluster, auto AC with rear vents, ventilated front seats, cruise control, a single-pane sunroof, and a 10.25-inch touchscreen system.
Its safety net could get a boost with the inclusion of a 360-degree camera, front parking sensors (seen on the bumper in this spy video), and a few advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) as introduced on the Hyundai Venue recently.
No Mechanical Revisions
We don’t expect Kia to tinker with the powertrain options of the sub-4m SUV. For now, the Sonet comes with the following engine-gearbox choices:
Specification
1.2-litre Petrol
1-litre Turbo-petrol
1.5-litre Diesel
Power
83PS
120PS
116PS
Torque
115Nm
172Nm
250Nm
Transmission
5-speed MT
6-speed iMT, 7-speed DCT
6-speed iMT, 6-speed AT
The existing model also comes with multiple drive modes: Eco, City and Sport. Also, the Sonet is now the only model to offer the iMT (manual without clutch pedal) option.
How Much Could It Cost?
The 2024 Kia Sonet is expected to have a starting price of Rs 8 lakh (ex-showroom). It will go up against the new Tata Nexon, Mahindra XUV300, Maruti Brezza, Hyundai Venue, Nissan Magnite and Renault Kiger, while also serving as an alternative to the Maruti Fronx crossover.
With a fresh design, updated interiors, and more features, the Sonet will get a fresh lease of life three years after its debut
The Sonet has been spotted again with a refreshed front profile, new alloy wheels, and new taillights.
Updates are expected inside the cabin as well.
The facelifted Sonet could come with dual 10.25-inch integrated displays for the infotainment and cluster.
Safety features like a 360-degree camera and ADAS might be added.
The Sonet is likely to continue offering the same petrol, turbo-petrol, and diesel engine options.
It is expected to be launched in early 2024.
The Kia Sonet facelift has been spotted once again during testing. This time, it appears to be a different variant. The subcompact SUV will receive its first major update since its debut in 2020, anticipated to arrive early next year.
What’s New?
The Sonet facelift will feature updated LED headlights and DRLs, as well as a redesigned grille and bumper at the front. Additionally, the bumper will include front parking sensors, a new addition to the SUV. It will also come with a new set of 16-inch alloy wheels, indicating that this variant is likely to be the HTX or HTX+ of the facelifted Sonet. Changes at the rear will include connected LED taillights, similar to the ones found in the Seltos, along with tweaks to the bumper and boot lid.
Tweaks To The Interior
Although there are no spy images of the interior, it is expected that the cabin will receive some updates to its styling. The centre console, seat upholstery, and interior theme may all be updated to give it a fresher look.
New Feature Additions
The new Sonet is speculated to come with a dual display screen setup, similar to the one in the Seltos, featuring a digital driver’s display. It may also include a 360-degree camera and possibly ADAS (advanced driver assistance system).
Currently, the Sonet is already loaded with features such as an electric sunroof, ventilated front seats, wireless phone charging, paddle shifters, up to six airbags, a tyre pressure monitoring system, and a rear parking camera.
The 2024 Sonet is expected to retain its current lineup of engines, which includes an 83PS 1.2-litre petrol, a 120PS 1-litre turbo-petrol, and 115PS 1.5-litre diesel options. The turbo-petrol and diesel variants come with the iMT (manual without a clutch pedal) as standard, along with the option of automatic transmissions.
Sub-Compact SUVs, like the Kia Sonet, could gain popularity in the U.S. due to its size, versatility, and practicality, appealing to a wide range of buyers.
The Kia Sonet offers diverse engine options, including a 1.2-liter gasoline engine, a 1.0-liter turbo gasoline engine, and a 1.5-liter diesel engine, providing power and torque options for different preferences.
The Kia Sonet showcases a premium exterior design with Kia’s signature ‘Tiger Nose’ grille, LED DRLs, and sleek alloy wheels, while the interior offers a comfortable and feature-packed cabin, including a 10.25-inch HD screen and advanced connectivity options.
Compact SUVs have gained immense popularity in the United States, becoming one of the most sought-after vehicle segments after pickup trucks. C-SUVs offer a winning combo of size, versatility, and practicality. They provide spacious and comfortable cabin space for passengers, ample cargo room, and a raised seating position with enhanced visibility, instilling a sense of confidence on the road. This versatility appeals to a wide range of buyers, including families, young professionals, and adventure enthusiasts.
Kia has introduced some excellent compact SUVs like the Seltos in the U.S. market, which have garnered a strong fan base of customers. Another small SUV that Kia has yet to release in the U.S. but has enjoyed success with in overseas markets like India, the Middle East, and Latin America is the Kia Sonet.
The Kia Sonet was developed mainly for the Indian market in the year 2020. Positioned below the Seltos in the line-up, it closely resembles the similarly-sized Hyundai Venue. The Sonet has a more aggressive appearance with Kia’s signature ‘Tiger Nose’ grille, LED DRLs housed in prominent headlamps, and a light bar connecting the rear LED tail lamps.
Why Should Kia Introduce The Sonet To The U.S. Market?
Kia
A front 3/4 action shot of a 2023 Kia Sonet X-Line
The Sonet is a subcompact crossover SUV built on the Hyundai-Kia K2 platform shared with the Hyundai Venue. The Kia Sonet offers a diverse range of engine options to cater to different preferences. The lineup includes a 1.2-Liter naturally aspirated gasoline engine generating 82 horsepower and 84 pound-feet of torque. For those seeking more power, there’s a 1.0-liter turbo gasoline engine producing 118 horsepower and 126 pound-feet of torque. Additionally, a 1.5-liter diesel engine is available, delivering 99 horsepower and an impressive 184 pound-feet of torque.
Engine Specifications
Engine Type
Diesel
Gas
Gas
Engine Size
1.5 Liter`
1.0 Liter
1.2 liter
Cylinders
Four
Three
Four
Horsepower
113.43 hp
118 hp
81.86 hp
Torque
184 lb ft
126 lb ft
84.8 lb ft
Cam Type
Double overhead cam (DOHC)
Double overhead cam (DOHC)
Double overhead cam (DOHC)
In terms of transmission, Kia has provided a wide array of choices, which include a five-speed manual, a six-speed manual, a six-speed torque converter automatic, a seven-speed DCT (dual-clutch transmission), and a six-speed iMT (intelligent manual transmission), similar to what’s offered in the Venue. Notably, a six-speed automatic option is available for the diesel engine.
Exterior Styling
The exterior of the Kia Sonet exudes a premium feel with carefully crafted touches throughout. The top-of-the-line GT Line variant, which features striking red inserts, adding a dynamic flair to the car’s appearance. Emphasizing its rugged appeal, the grille boasts a sleek and chrome-free design. The headlamps, equipped with LEDs, emanate a modern and sharp aesthetic, while the fog lamps showcase elegant piano black housings.
The side profile of the Sonet continues the muscular theme, with attention-grabbing 16″ alloy wheels stealing the spotlight. Kia has truly mastered the art of designing alloy wheels, evident in their exquisite craftsmanship and attention to detail, which elevates the vehicle’s overall appeal. The Kia Sonet’s exterior design showcases a perfect balance of premium elements and rugged charm, particularly in the GT Line variant, making it a visually captivating and distinctive option in the compact SUV segment.
A shot of the dashboard in a 2023 Kia Sonet X-Line
The Kia Sonet boasts a premium interior, creating an overall pleasant ambiance in the cabin. Depending on the trim chosen, you can enjoy either dual-tone interior or a sleek full black theme with striking red stitching, particularly in the GT Line variant. The dashboard design is ergonomic and user-friendly, while the steering wheel design resembles that of the Seltos, exuding a sense of familiarity.
The front seats are a highlight, offering exceptional comfort and ample space. They feature well-designed bolsters and provide adequate support for long journeys. However, while the rear seats are nicely contoured, the Sonet falls slightly short in rear space. Legroom is comparable to that of the Venue, but taller passengers might experience some limitations as your knees could brush against the front seatbacks if occupied by a tall passenger.
The Kia Sonet boasts a large and impressive 10.25-inch HD screen adorning its dashboard, similar to its counterpart, the Seltos. This screen offers UVO connectivity options, enabling live traffic information and Over-The-Air (OTA) map updates, enhancing the vehicle’s navigation capabilities. Additionally, a wireless smartphone charger with cooling function has been seamlessly integrated, ensuring convenient charging on the go.
Kia
A shot of the front seats in a 2023 Kia Sonet X-Line
Notably, the Sonet comes equipped with an Air purifier featuring Virus protect technology, emphasizing Kia’s commitment to passenger well-being and comfort. The vehicle matches the Hyundai Venue in terms of equipment and then goes a step further, offering extra features such as a seven-speaker Bose sound system and ventilated front seats for both the driver and front passenger. Furthermore, the Sonet includes a Tire Pressure Monitoring System and cruise control to enhance the driving experience.
While the Sonet offers an array of advanced features, it does miss out on a 360-degree camera. Nevertheless, the package does include a one-touch sunroof, adding a touch of luxury to the overall driving experience. The Sonet impresses with its comprehensive and innovative features, making it an appealing choice in the competitive compact SUV market.
Despite the spatial constraints, Kia ensures the rear passengers’ comfort with thoughtful amenities, such as dedicated AC vents and a USB charging socket. While the Sonet may not be the most spacious in its class, its premium interior and attention to passenger comfort make it an appealing choice in the compact SUV segment.
Kia
A shot of the Kia Seltos in the City
The Kia Sonet’s success lies in its ability to replicate the winning formula of its larger sibling, the Seltos, in a more compact form. It impressively shares almost all the Seltos’ features, many of which are rare to find at this price point. Additionally, although it may not really find many takers in the United States, the Seltos offers an excellent 1.5 diesel engine with a choice of a manual or torque-converter automatic gearbox. The diesel automatic variant, in particular, stands out as the best powertrain, delivering a smooth and efficient performance, making the Sonet feel like a more premium and larger vehicle.
Despite its successes, the Sonet does have some limitations. Similar to the Hyundai Venue, its back seat lacks the spaciousness offered by some rivals, and the ride can feel slightly choppy. Additionally, the handling dynamics may not be as engaging as some would hope. Nevertheless, the Kia Sonet strikes an impressive balance among compact SUVs, offering a loaded feature set and outstanding versatility. If you seek a compact vehicle that can handle various tasks with ease and comes packed with features, the Sonet remains a top choice.
The Sonet X-Line Special Edition is the latest and best version of the model so far. This version comes with the following upgrades over the standard
Exterior Updates:
Matte graphite (grey) exterior paint shade
Gloss black knurled pattern grille
Piano black finish with dark metal accents on front and rear skid plates
Gloss black fog lamp garnishes and outside wing mirrors
Dark metal accents on doors
16-inch alloy wheels with gloss black finish
Silver brake calipers (instead of red on standard GT models)
Interior Updates:
New dual-tone color scheme
Black headliner
Leatherette upholstery with orange contrast stitching and X Line logos
Based on the top-spec GTX+ trim with existing features and equipment
Engine Options:
Expected to offer the 120hp, 1.0-liter turbo-gasoline engine
Expected to offer the 100hp, 1.5-liter diesel engine (115hp in automatic variant)
Transmission options: iMT and DCT for the gas model, and manual and torque converter automatic for the diesel
The Kia Sonet has undoubtedly made a strong impact in the compact SUV market with its winning combination of style, features, and performance. With a diverse range of engine options and transmission choices, it caters to various driving preferences and needs. Its premium interiors, loaded with advanced technology and comfort features, provide a delightful driving experience.
While some limitations exist in terms of rear space and handling dynamics, the Sonet X-Line Special Edition showcases the best version yet, with distinctive exterior styling touches and a refined interior. If Kia were to introduce the Sonet to the U.S. market, it would seamlessly fill the gap between the Kia Soul and the Seltos, offering American consumers another compelling choice in the highly sought-after compact SUV segment.
Unlock Your Automotive Passion and Explore the Road Ahead
