Kia Sonet: Ever since it was unveiled, the Kia Sonet has been making waves in the sub-4-metre SUV segment in India.
With a range of power unit options, a raft of features, and a striking design to boot, the Sonet delivers practicality along with a sense of premiumness in a size that makes perfect sense.
In a segment brimming with choices such as the Hyundai Venue, Tata Nexon and Maruti Brezza, the Sonet has been lapped up for everything from its design to tech features to a broad general appeal.
New to the segment, or looking to upgrade from a hatchback, the Kia Sonet presents both a compelling value and solid urban dimensions and respectable SUV-like credentials.
Design and Styling
Bold styling is the key highlight of the Kia Sonet. There’s the typical Kia’s “tiger-nose” grille, sharp LED DRLs and cool LED tail lamps paired with a light bar.
With sharply cut body panels, bold bumpers and a floating roof effect, the car has a very modern and sporty appearance.
For such a compact footprint, the Sonet does a good job of presenting a look like it’s holding down a larger piece of the road.
The higher trims are equipped with dual-tone formats, red brake calipers, skid plates and premium alloy wheels which overall improve visual appeal of the vehicle.
Interior and Comfort
Thumbed inside, the Kia Sonet is built quite well as always, featuring a neatly arranged dashboard and a contemporary design.
The 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system (available on top trims) is among the best in the segment, with sharp graphics and slick operation.
Amenities in abundance with features such as:
Ventilated front seats
Cooling wireless charging pad
Ambient lighting
Bose advanced 7-speaker sound system with subwoofer and amplifier
Auto climate control
Rear AC vents
The front seats are comfortable and supportive; the back seat is best for two adults.
There’s a decent amount of legroom, and the boot gives you about 392 litres of space, which is plenty for a weekend away or just popping around a city.
Engine, and Performance There are three engine options available for the Hyundai Venue.
Three engine options from which to choose gives Kia Sonet buyers quite a bit of flexibility:
1.2L NA Petrol (83 PS, 5-speed MT) – This motor is smooth and runs like butter; offers perfect power for city.
1.0L Turbo Petrol (120 PS, iMT & DCT) – Punchy and enjoyable to drive, particularly for thrill-seekers given spirited performance
1.0L Turbo Petrol (120 PS, iMT & DCT) – Quick and fun to drive, especially for enthusiasts who want spirited performance
1.5L Diesel (116 PS, 6 speed MT & 6 speed AT ) – Good job at low-end torque and brilliant on the highway and in terms of mileage.
Especially with the diesel automatic, it is really one of the standouts in the segment for a combination of performance and efficiency.
The iMT (clutchless manual) and DCT (dual-clutch auto) in the turbo petrol choices offer different experiences suited for different tastes.
Safety and Features
The Sonet also comes with a decent set of safety features including:
6 airbags (top trims)
ABS with EBD
ESC = electronic stability control
Hill assist control
Back camera as well as sensors for parking behind
Tyre-pressure monitoring system
Furthermore, UVO connected car features offer remote engine start, geofencing and live tracking feature under Kia’s UVO system.
Pros of Kia Sonet
Cool design on the outside with SUV appeal
Loaded cabin with high-end features
A variety of engines and transmissions
Very nice diesel automatic variant as well.
The seats are ventilated, sunroof and wireless charging
Small but useful in the city
Cons of Kia Sonet
Backseat is comfortable for two, cramped for three adults.
Turbo petrol DCT can turn dear
No hybrid or CNG variant
Can be firm riding over rough pavement
no room for much of any luggage for a family of 5 on long trips
Kia Sonet: Verdict
There are few things, a compact S.U.V. buyer could ask for, that the Kia Sonet doesn’t deliver.
It’s a well-rounded product, with head-turning looks, a wide range of powertrains, premium features, and a tech-savvy approach.
It’s just as comfortable during the grind of the daily commute, for highway trips or the rare longer highway-bound jaunt.
The Kia Sonet is one of the best compact SUVs for those who want a premium experience without sacrificing performance or style.