The recently refreshed Kia Sonet packs a punch for a vehicle of its size. This versatile subcompact SUV blends standout style, advanced tech features, safety, and powerful yet efficient engines into one compelling package. Though compact in its dimensions, the Sonet delivers massive value through its blend of everyday comfort, customisable style, generous interior space and rewarding performance.
The Sonet makes a compelling case for those wanting an SUV that is suitable for city driving without compromise. Read on to explore the features of the Kia Sonet.
Exterior: Blending Sophistication and Ruggedness
The Sonet artfully blends stylish, modern design with rugged SUV capability. Upfront, subtle styling upgrades join forces with intricate LED lighting details to give it a bold yet sophisticated aesthetic. The muscular stance and aerodynamic shaping project a strength and efficiency that mask its compact dimensions. By retaining the familiar Sonet essence while keeping things fresh, Kia has managed to strike an ideal balance. Form follows function in the Sonet’s handsome exterior design, with harmonising beauty and practicality.
Sleek style and rugged capability marry into a visually compelling package, complemented by fine attention to detail in the LED lighting elements. In Sonet’s handsome visage, aesthetics and pragmatism find their artistic equilibrium.
Interior: Cabin Comfort with Segment-Leading Space
Stepping inside reveals an upscale interior with exceptional attention to detail and solid ergonomics. The redesigned centre console looks clean yet advanced, especially with the 10.25-inch touchscreen display. You’ll also appreciate the ventilated front seats on hot days and the large electric sunroof that brightens the cabin.
The Sonet is exceptionally spacious for a vehicle its size. The leather-trimmed flat-bottom steering wheel and premium seat materials add luxury touches with dedicated spots for your smartphone and beverages. Abundant storage solutions round out the thoughtful and comfortable cabin space.
Performance and Efficiency: Powerful Yet Efficient Engines
Sonet empowers you to select your preferred engine and transmission based on driving needs and style. The 1.2-litre naturally aspirated 4-cylinder petrol engine delivers smooth, fuss-free motoring that excels in the city and on highways.
For added excitement, the 1.0-litre 3-cylinder turbo-petrol injects an eagerness to accelerate and overtake, aided by a choice between 6-speed iMT and 7-speed DCT automatics. Lastly, the frugal 1.5-litre 4-cylinder diesel balances economy and enthusiasm across manual, iMT and conventional 6-speed automatic gearboxes.
With a mileage of 18.2 to 24.1 km/l, low noise, and flexible performance across the range, Sonet’s engine options let you tailor efficiency and driving dynamics to your lifestyle.
Features and Safety: Packed with Convenience and Reassurance
The well-equipped Sonet range leaves little to be desired. Convenience features include cruise control, a rearview camera, auto headlamps/wipers, and push-button start/stop. Other highlights like wireless phone charging, a premium Sound lighting system, and remote engine start via an app elevate the ownership experience.
Six airbags, ABS with EBD, ESC, HSA, and VSM—just some of the active safety systems protecting occupants—also reassure you. By paying close attention to both features and safety, Kia leaves you with a few reasons to seek alternatives.
Dimensions and Capacity: Optimally Sized for Urban Agility
The Sonet measures 3,995mm long, 1,790mm wide, and 1,570 mm high. Combined with its 2,500mm wheelbase, these compact dimensions lend themselves beautifully to squeezing and parking in urban places. Yet the thoughtful packaging still delivers one of its class’ most spacious and flexible interiors.
Whether it’s occupants or cargo, the Sonet rises to the occasion. The light steering facilitates tight urban manoeuvres while robust ground clearance of 205mm prevents nasty scrapes over speed humps. With segment-leading 385-litre boot capacity and 60:40 split folding rear seats, you’ll be amazed how much luggage the Sonet can swallow when called upon!
The Bottom Line
The Kia Sonet combines standout style, segment-leading space, rewarding performance and generous equipment into one exceptionally compelling package. With impressive attention to detail and diverse customisation options inside and out, the Sonet punches far above what its compact dimensions suggest.
If you seek a blend of supreme versatility, safety, technology, and value for money in a city-friendly size, few vehicles make their case more persuasive than the Kia Sonet. While hatchbacks like the Maruti Suzuki Swift have long been favoured for their urban practicality, the Sonet offers a more comprehensive package with the added benefit of SUV capability, making it a top pick for those looking for a compact yet capable vehicle.