Kia Sonet Overview

Kia Motors India has launched their 3rd model named Kia Sonet. This model of KIA comes under the category of the compact SUV segment, which is dominated by the Hyundai Venue & Vitara Brezza. There are many other rivalries of the KIA sonnet, for example, Mahindra XUV300, Ford EcoSport & Tata Nexon. This model brings many specifications, from the multiple gearboxes to the other advanced handy features. Buyers can get a lot of options to choose from within an economical price range. The comfy back/front seats, good ambience, touchscreen display, and sound system base make the KIA SONET a success. The great powertrain and auto gearbox feature offers great smoothness & efficiency. Are you looking for the most premium car option? This option might be best for you! But before that, you should look for certain features and engine specifications of this vehicle. 

Compared to the other options, the back seats are less spacious than the other options. The riding is smooth and enjoyable! If you want a compact car with advanced facilities, you should ask for this. KIA SONET is the worthiest pick for everyone who wants to try something new in 2023.

Kia Sonet Variants

By reading this article about KIA SONET variants, you may determine which Kia Sonet variation to purchase based on ex-showroom costs, variant-specific features, and cost-effectiveness. Let’s take a deep dive into the variation and the features. 

Here, you will compare and unbiasedly evaluate the petrol Sonet versions and their features to determine which variant is the best purchase in terms of price and ownership experience. The Kia Sonet will then be compared against the other B2-segment SUVs, including the Hyundai Venue, Brezza, Nexon, Magnate, Kiger, XUV300, and Honda WRV in terms of engine specifications, dimensions, and mileage.

There are 6 variations available; however, some can only be had with particular powertrains. Only the bottom 3 models, with prices that range from 7.49 lakhs to Rs. 9.19 lakh, are offered with the 1.2L regular petrol engine.

The upper 4 models offer a turbo petrol engine with an auto-clutch manual transmission. The HTK Plus model has a starting price of Rs. 9.99 lakhs, while the GTX + variant has a starting price of Rs. 12.59 lakh. The HTK Plus 1.2L regular petrol engine costs roughly Rs. 80,000 less than the turbo petrol engine. It boasts additional amenities, including a more potent engine and an automatic transmission, which we’ll examine in the variants breakdown.

The base HTE model

The 1.2L regular petrol engine, with a manual transmission, is the only option for the basic HTE edition of the 2022 Sonet. It costs 7.49 lakh rupees (ex-showroom). The Sonet comes bundled with the following noteworthy features in its basic model:

• AC manually-controlled 
• Two front-side thoracic airbags are among the four airbags.
• sensors for tire pressure
• central locking via hand
• anterior armrest
• USB ports, two
• Lean steering
• power windows upfront
• steel wheels measuring 15 inches, with coverings
• electric mirrors
• back AC vents
• headlights with halogen reflectors

The basic edition lacks a few crucial features:

• Sound System
• Steering-Wheel-Mounted Controls
• Central Locking Through Remote
• Adjustable Driver Seat For Height
• Backpack Holder, Back Camera, And Back Washer Wiper
• Back-Up Defogger
• Back Power Windows

The HTK variant

For the extra functionality they provide, the Sonet 1.2L HTK as well as HTK Plus models are slightly more expensive. The HTK model, however, adds a few desirable features, but thanks to a recent price adjustment, it isn’t that much more expensive than the original variant. The original HTE model still offers the best value, but if you’re ready to make a small sacrifice in this area, HTK is a respectable substitute.

The HTK model appears to be well-equipped for a satisfying ownership experience. However, our internal algorithm believes it’s a tad pricey based on the added features and the increased cost above the HTE model. Even if the HTE delivers greater value for money, the current price increase makes the HTE version worthy of consideration for a respectable ownership experience.

The HTK plus variant

The Kia Sonet HTK Plus model has an auto-clutch transmission and a turbocharged petrol engine, making it the cheapest. The 1.2L regular petrol engine is priced at Rs. 9.19 lakh, and the turbocharged petrol engine costs Rs. 9.99 lahks. While the turbo gasoline is Rs. 79,999 more costly than the HTK + 1.2L petrol, the HTK + is Rs. 94,000 more pricey than the HTK 1.2L petrol.

The following features are added to the HTK Plus version over the HTK:

• Fog lights with halogen projectors
• back-up defogger
• 8-inch display with a rear camera that supports Apple Carplay and Android Auto
• Tweeters twice
• charging a phone wirelessly
• Keyless entrance with start/stop pushbuttons
• package tray in the back
• No-key entry (Turbo only)
• Sunroof (Turbo only) (Turbo only)
• A hill start and ESC (Turbo only)

Along with improved horsepower and an automatic clutch manual transmission, the turbo petrol engine also comes with a sunroof and other conveniences like keyless entry.

Therefore, professionals won’t advise you to purchase this model with the 1.2L gasoline engine. Instead, invest in the HTK + turbo, which, unexpectedly, provides incredible value for the money when you consider the improved performance, ease of auto-clutch, and added functions. For most Sonet petrol purchasers, we highly suggest the HTK + turbo with ACMT.

The HTX variant

The 1.2L engine is not offered in the Kia Sonet HTX model, but it does come with a turbocharged gasoline engine and an automatic or dual-clutch automatic transmission. This Sonet automated model is the cheapest one. Costs for the Sonet HTX with the ACMT are Rs. 10.95 lakh and Rs. 11.55 lakh, respectively. This model, which costs Rs. 96,001 more than the cheaper HTK Plus variant, comes with the following noteworthy extra features:

• Cruising with LED DRLs
• LED taillights
• reflective LED headlights
• blinds for the back windows
• Low-profile steering
• interior with two colours
• a backrest
• adjustable headrests for the back

HTX + variant

Only the 1.0L turbo ACMT powertrain is offered in the Kia Sonet HTX + variant, which costs Rs. 12.25 lakhs. It costs Rs. 1.30 lakhs more than the HTX grade and comes with the following noteworthy extra features:

• Curtain airbags twice
• Bose subwoofer sound system
• air cleaner
• Telematics
• front chairs with vents
• LED ambient lighting for leather upholstery
• rear window washer

The GTX and the GTX + variants

With the turbocharged petrol engine, the Sonet GTX + variant offers ACMT and DCT choices, with the former costing Rs. 12.59 lakh and the latter Rs. 13.19 lakh. The GTX Plus automatic is further Rs. 60,000 more costly than the auto-clutch manual, costing Rs. 34,000 more than the HTX Plus. It only receives exterior and interior red highlights, GT Line emblems, a black interior, and a black leather interior in addition to the front parking sensors.

KIA Sonet Exterior

The Sonet’s appearance is unchanged from the model introduced two years ago, except for the Kia emblems that can be seen on the head and tailgate, which were replaced with the new logos for the company. The focus is on the front, where a chromium strip with a knurled design on the lower half highlights the distinctive Kia “Tiger Nose” grille. A pair of LED headlights with

They have chic “Heartbeat” running lights (DRLs) that are well incorporated. An air inlet is on the bottom of the bumper, which has a silver accent and a false skid guard at the base.

The underside of the “Tiger Nose” grille has a superb chrome accent and a knurled finish, making it appear fairly expensive. (Image credit: Nishmanya Bahadur/News9 Live)

When looking at the Sonet from the side, Its overhangs and boxy shape, combined with the wide wheel arches, undoubtedly contribute to the SUV style of the vehicle. A pair of fashionable 16-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels and body wrapping all around has also been added by Kia to the Sonet.

Some additional toughness The hefty C-Pillar, which employs a finned fibreglass insert to create the rear windscreen appear wider and to lessen the visual weight on the side, is my sole complaint from this position. However, it doesn’t work very well.

It has excellent proportions, and the SUV’s appearance is enhanced by the flared wheel arches and 16-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels. The back has stylish taillights with a “Heartbeat” design.

Professionals believe that the LED component in them, which spans the entire length of the boots (with a short gap in between), truly completes the look. A nicely fitted roof spoiler, a pseudo twin exhaust incorporated into the bumper, and a tailgate with minimum badging are all at the back.

Kia Sonet Interiors

Numerous top-of-the-line comfort & convenience features are included in the new model. The 10.25-inch HD smart play infotainment panel with navigation and real-time traffic data is the biggest in its genre. The new Sonet has a digital instrument panel, grip control, tire pressure monitoring, pure smart purifier with virus prevention, front passengers and drivers ventilated seats, remote engine start, and UVO Connect linked car tech with OTA plus smartphone wireless charging.

The 2017 Kia Sonet has six airbags, ABS with EBD, ESC, Hill assist control, VSM, front and rear parking sensors, automated headlights, and a reverse camera for safety and security.

This remains true today, and I think it makes this cabin one of the finest in its category. While Kia has already used hard plastic products in so many areas of the cabin to save money, it makes up for it with a premium design and superior materials in all the areas you frequently come into contact with, like the steering column, which is identical to the one in the more pricey Seltos but rather feels great in your hands. The indicator and wiper switches, as well as the switches for the climate control and the steering-mounted controls, all seem nicely damped.

Kia Sonet Features

The KIA SONET earned huge appreciation from car lovers in the last few years. This is now counted among the market’s leading options for compact SUVs. This option is known for providing flawless design, premium quality comfort & advanced components.

• Loaded with a total of 6 airbags, including front & rear
• Tyre pressure sensing system for regular monitory
• Air conditioner system with AC vents on the rear
• LED DRL & Halogen headlamps
• The front seats are properly ventilated.
• Sunroof system & sunshades on rear windows.
• The inside mirror is loaded with an auto-dimming facility.
• High bass sound with a touchscreen dashboard
• The mirrors installed on the outside can be adjusted electrically.
• The seats are built on semi-leather material with silver stitching.
• Skid plates on both rear/front portion

Kia Sonet Safety Features

When buying a car, we all look for safety features, which is the must-go-through topic because you are paying a hefty amount. So, the KIA SONET model is loaded with multi-purpose features with high-grade advanced techniques. Let’s look at the safety features and decide whether the price you are paying for this is worth it!

Front & Side Airbags: The KIA SONET model consists of 6 airbags, including side airbags, front airbags near the driver seat, and front passenger airbags. All the airbags are shielded that ensuring safety and protection for the riders. 

ABS w/ EBD: This is another safety feature you can get in all the variations of the KIA SONET. This feature allows the car’s wheel to rotate in the opposite motion, which can quickly minimize your speed. This feature gives the rider complete authority to maintain the vehicle’s stability.

Rear parking sensors: The rear side parking sensor allows one to check whether there are any obstructions while parking the car in the reverse mode. The parking sensor alerts help to save you from any accidents. 

Emergency stop signal: This feature allows the driver to stop and park the car in the right manner. It gives an alert sound when there is something wrong. 

Pressure Monitor System on the tire: This feature displays the real-time tire information on your display. It has a speed-sensing lock also, which is helpful, especially if you have kids.

Next-gen connection: This model of KIA SONET presents the next-gen connection with 58 smart features that make the drive super smooth and future-ready. It offers OTA map support, a convenient driving experience, AI voice command, and a sunroof control facility.

Engine Specifications & Performance

To understand the performance of the KIA SONET, you must go through its engine specification. This amazing compact SUV contains better engine specifications, like safety features. The smart engine performance delivers the experience of smooth & flexible driving to the riders. This is perfect for on-road & off-road riding due to the strong support. Now let’s delve into this.

Huge engine transmission system: KIA SONET presents a set of 5 engine transmission systems, including diesel engines. It has a manual auto clutch, which is new to the market. If you are a buyer who only buys this for driving around the city, you can go with a 1.2 L petrol engine with 5 manual speeds. People looking for options that deliver better drivability and performance can move with a 1.0L petrol turbo engine and a six-speed manual for clutch transmission. This option is also gaining popularity for delivering a clutch-free riding experience. You can also try the turbo petrol option featured with 7- a dual-clutch speed automatic manual. At last, if you are looking for heavy driving options, pick a 1.5L diesel turbo engine along with six-speed automatic manual transmission.

Premium diesel powertrain: This model of KIA launched in the market with a 1.5L diesel turbo. It contains the most efficient range of fuel engines, having 24.1kmpl fuel efficiency. If you talk about the variant running through DCT Turbo Petrol & ACMT also offers a better premium powertrain!

Auto Clutch transmission option: The KIA SONET presents the biggest game-changing technique, which offers the convenience & comfort of the driver. It has an automatic transmission feature that gives a mechanical feel. It is known for having fewer breakdowns with ACMT. Unfortunately, if something wrong happens, the fixing is quick, easy & affordable.

Good Things & Bad Things About Car

Do you want to be aware of the highlights of Kia SONET? As a potential buyer, you should know about the positive and negative things. Here we present the list of KIA SONET achievements & drawbacks which helps you to make a better buying decision.

Pros of Kia Sonet:

• This is a great option that resembles the modern & youthful look.
• The gearboxes and motors are refined & perform smoothly & frugally performance.
• It is compact with smooth steering.
• The quality of manufacturing is up to the mark.
• Great finishing with great boot capacity.
• The effective range of diesel powertrain
• Five-engine transmission choice
• Manual transmission auto clutch
• Ventilated sunroof front seats 
• Premium base sound system
• Armrests in both front & back side
• Six airbags with sensors that sense if the tire pressure is low
• Receive smooth clutch transmission.

Cons of Kia Sonet:

• The visibility is somewhere lower than you expected
• The ride quality is firm & bounces at high speed
• The rear side seat space is not so wide & long.
• The compact windscreen hampers visibility.
• Insufficient automatic diesel
• No options for CNG
• The variants like HTK & HTK Plus needs to be revamped
• Features are reserved for the upgraded variants
• Zero automatic options available in 10.0 Lakh & below.

Kia Sonet Competitors

After the car lunch in the Indian market, this price segment creates a buzz among the Indian consumer. Considering the Kia SONET’s different variants, various features, and various gearbox-engine options, the car offered almost covers all the prices accepted by this particular segment of compact SUV cars. But the top model of the SONET is a little bit more expensive than its other rivals in the same price segment. This 1.2-litre variant has good competitors like Hyundai Venue, Tata Nexon, and Maruti Suzuki Brezza. Suppose you have a head-on comparison between Hyundai Venue and Kia SONET. 

In that case, they have the same power of 83PS and the same 5-speed manual transmission option, but Kia SONET has a slightly better Torque than Venue, which has a torque of 113Nm, while SONET has 115 Nm. As per the features and comfort aspect of the cars, Kia SONET can easily outperform all its competitors. It has the best comfortable and ventilated seats for the best comfort of the passengers. Other than the Hyundai venue, Tata Nexon is one of the most crucial competitors of the Kia SONET. Safety is the most important factor of any car. Kia SONET has the best safety equipment, like 6 airbags and Electronic safety control and sensors, which most competitors do not have.

Conclusion:

So in the segment of compact SUVs, the Kia SONET is the best option comparing any other can in their budget. It has some of the features of higher pricing cars like Seltos. You can get the features like cruise control, a smart air purifier, ventilated seats, BOSE sound system, a rear vent of AC, a steering wheel with multi-functionality, wireless charging, and an electric sunroof. Kia SONET is undoubtedly the most feature-equipped car in this price segment of compact SUVs. Also, now, it is the only Compact SUV that is available in an automatic diesel variant.

Image Source: “www.kia.com/in/”