On the 12th of January 2024, Kia is set to officially unveil the prices for the 2024 Kia Sonet facelift, marking the South Korean automaker’s first major product launch of the year. It will be followed by the introduction of the new Kia Carnival MPV and Kia EV9. Nationwide bookings for the updated model of the SUV are currently open, requiring a token sum of Rs 25,000.
The refreshed Sonet boasts subtle cosmetic enhancements, an array of new features, and a notable mechanical overhaul. Notably, the diesel-manual combination makes a return with this mid-life update. Despite this change, the engine options remain consistent. The lineup includes the 83bhp, 1.2L, 4-cylinder petrol engine paired with a 5-speed manual gearbox, the 120bhp, 1.0L, 3-cylinder turbo petrol engine with 6-speed iMT and 7-speed DCT automatic gearbox, and the 116bhp, 1.5L, 4-cylinder diesel engine with 6-speed manual and 6-speed torque converter automatic transmission options.
The diesel-automatic variants of the 2024 Kia Sonet facelift are reported to achieve a mileage of 18.6kmpl, while the diesel-iMT combo stands out as the most fuel-efficient with a claimed mileage of 22.3kmpl. The 1.2L petrol-manual combination sees a slight improvement in fuel efficiency, now promising 18.83kmpl compared to the previous 18.4kmpl. The 1.0L petrol with iMT and DCT offers 18.7kmpl and 19.2kmpl, respectively.
A significant highlight of the new Kia Sonet facelift is the Level 1 ADAS tech, akin to what is featured in the Hyundai Venue. This suite incorporates lane keep assist, forward collision avoidance assistance, forward collision warning, high beam assist, lane departure warning, among other advanced safety features. The standard safety kit includes a tyre pressure monitoring system, hill start assist, electronic stability control, and six airbags.
Exclusive features such as a 360-degree camera with a blind view monitor, a four-way powered driver’s seat, and cornering lamps are reserved for the higher trims. The new Sonet facelift introduces a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, a small screen beneath the infotainment system displaying climate control information, and two rows of toggles for HVAC controls, drive modes, and traction modes. Buyers can choose from five interior upholstery color options, including a novel dual-tone black and brown finish.
