Kia Sonet sub-4 meter SUV from the South Korean carmaker will make its world debut in India tomorrow (7th August, 2020). While its official launch date is yet to be announced, the model is likely to see a release in the month of September. Its unofficial bookings, however, have already been commenced across the nation.
The Sonet will be the third model from Kia Motors that will take head-to-head against the Hyundai Venue, Maruti Suzuki Vitara Brezza, Mahindra XUV300 and Tata Nexon. Prices of Kia’s upcoming compact SUV are likely to fall in the range of Rs 8 lakh – Rs 12 lakh (ex-showroom).
Exterior
Measuring less than 4m in length, the Kia Sonet will be the smallest SUV from the South Korean carmaker in the country. The model has been designed on Venue’s platform and looks quite sporty especially from the front end. Similar to the concept, the production version will feature the aggressive ‘Tiger Nose’ grille along with LED headlamps, LED DRLs, chunky bumper and sculpted bonnet. Read – Kia Seltos EV Will Be Brand’s Most Affordable Electric SUV
The compact SUV is likely to feature flush-fitting door handles and 18-inch wheels with 255-section tyres as we have seen in the concept. There might also be floating roof rails, a rear wiper, rear mounted lip spoiler and a rear set antenna. The rear profile will be accentuated by large LED taillamps connected via LED light bar and sharply raked rear windscreen flowing into the boot area.
Interior
Kia Motors has confirmed that the Sonet will be loaded with multiple segment-first features including a massive 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system. For entertainment purpose, there will be a premium Bose sound system. Similar to the Seltos, the Kia Sonet will get the brand’s UVO in-car connectivity technology. Other interesting elements might include a flat-bottom steering wheel, sunroof, automatic climate control, keyless entry with push button start, a multi information display, cruise control, wireless phone charger and more. Read – Upcoming New Kia Cars In India
The GT Line trim might be offered with dual-tone interior and sporty black seat upholstery with contrast red stitching. The silver trim on the doors, AC vents and steering wheel will add more to its sporty looks. For the safety provision, the upcoming Kia compact SUV is likely to offer multiple airbags, ABS with EBD, rear parking sensors, rear view camera and more.
Engine-Gearbox Combos
Kia will offer its all-new compact SUV with three engine options – a 1.2L petrol, a 1.0L turbo petrol and a 1.5L diesel. All three motors are carried over from the Hyundai Venue. While the naturally-aspirated petrol unit will come with a 5-speed manual gearbox, the turbo-petrol and oil burner will get a 6-speed manual transmission. A 7-speed DCT automatic and iMT (Intelligent Manual Gearbox) will be reserved for the turbo-petrol variants. The Sonet might also be offered with diesel-automatic option.
