The Kia Sonet facelift was recently launched at an introductory price of Rs 7.99 lakh-14.69 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi). The updated Sonet received a few cosmetic changes like a new headlamp and tail-lamp design, a new front and rear bumper, complemented by a few feature updates. The Sonet facelift is available in three distinct variants – Tech Line, GT Line and X-Line. While the GT line and X-Line feature a single trim each, the Tech Line is sub-divided into HTE, HTK, HTK+, HTX and HTX+ trims.
Kia Motors has once again set the automotive stage ablaze with the launch of the much-anticipated Kia Sonet Facelift.
Kia Sonet facelift powertrains
The Sonet has brought back the manual gearbox with the diesel engine, expanding its existing line-up of powertrain combinations. The petrol options come in an 83hp, 1.2-litre, four-cylinder engine paired with a 5-speed manual gearbox, and a 120hp, 1.0-litre, three-cylinder turbo-petrol unit mated to a 6-speed iMT gearbox or a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox. The diesel engine, meanwhile, is a 116hp, 1.5-litre, four-cylinder variant with three gearbox options – a 6-speed manual, 6-speed iMT and a 6-speed torque converter automatic gearbox.
The HTE, HTK and HTK+ trims exclusively feature the 1.2-litre petrol with a manual transmission, while the 1.0-litre petrol iMT, engine-gearbox combination, is found in HTK+, HTX and HTX+ trims only. In the Tech line, the 1.5-litre diesel, mated to a manual gearbox, is available across all the trims, while the same with an iMT is available specifically in HTX and HTX+ trims.
- Kia Sonet HTE (Rs 7.99 lakh-9.79 lakh): The entry-level HTE variant introduces the Sonet experience with essentials like 15-inch steel wheels, halogen headlamps, and tail lamps. Safety is paramount with six airbags, ABS with EBD, ESC, and hill ascent control.
- Kia Sonet HTK (Rs 8.79 lakh-10.39 lakh): Building on the HTE, the HTK variant adds 16-inch dual-tone alloys, roof rack, and rear power windows. Convenience takes a step up with features like driver seat height adjustment, keyless entry, and an 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system. The HTK also embraces connected car tech and a rearview camera with guidelines.
- Kia Sonet HTK+ (Rs 9.89 lakh-11.39 lakh): The HTK+ variant enhances the driving experience with LED DRLs, fog lamps, an electric sunroof, and automatic AC. Convenience features include a one-touch auto up/down driver window, rear defogger, and remote engine start. Tech enthusiasts will appreciate the push-button start and electrically folding ORVMs.
- Kia Sonet HTX (Rs 11.49 lakh-12.99 lakh): Moving up, the HTX variant introduces premium features like LED headlamps, LED tail-lamp, and a 60:40 split for the rear seats. Cruise control, front ventilated seats, and paddle shifters enhance the driving experience, while the 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system takes center stage.
- Kia Sonet HTX+ (Rs 13.39 lakh-14.39 lakh): The HTX+ variant introduces luxury with ambient lights, all-black interiors, and an auto-dimming rearview mirror. Technological advancements include a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, connected car tech, built-in Alexa compatibility, and a 7-speaker Bose audio system.
- Kia Sonet GTX+ (Rs 14.49 lakh-15.49 lakh): The GTX+ variant takes things up a notch with sportier 16-inch alloys, GT styling for the exterior and interior, and a 360-degree camera with a blind view monitor.
- Kia Sonet X-Line (Rs 14.69 lakh-15.69 lakh): The top-tier X-Line variant, available with the GTX+ trim, introduces the X-Line Interior and Styling. I Whether you're looking for a practical entry-level SUV or a top-tier model with all the bells and whistles, the Sonet Facelift has something for everyone.
Design Evolution
The first element that captures attention is the design evolution in the Kia Sonet Facelift. Retaining its distinctive and bold styling, and the facelift introduces subtle yet the impactful changes that elevate its visual appeal. The front fascia sports a redesigned grille, and the complemented by refreshed headlamps and a redefined bumper.
Variant Lineup
The Kia Sonet Facelift is distinguished by its broad range of variants, which provide options to suit a variety of customer demands. With its core characteristics, the base model of the Sonet makes it accessible to individuals looking for a reasonably priced way to enter the subcompact SUV market.
1. Base Variant: The entry-level variant of the Sonet Facelift serves as a cost-effective option without compromising on essential features.
2. Mid-Variants: Moving up the ladder, the mid-level variants introduce a range of creature comforts and technological upgrades.
3. Top-Tier Variant: The flagship variant of the Kia Sonet Facelift represents the pinnacle of luxury and technology. Loaded with premium features, state-of-the-art infotainment systems, advanced safety technologies, and aesthetic enhancements, the top-tier variant caters to the discerning buyer who seeks the best that the Sonet has to offer.
Performance and Engine Options
The Kia Sonet Facelift maintains its reputation for dynamic performance, offering a range of engine options to suit diverse driving preferences. Whether opting for the fuel-efficient petrol engine, the torquey diesel variant, or the eco-friendly turbocharged GDI engine, drivers can tailor their Sonet experience to match their individual needs.
As the Kia Sonet Facelift makes its mark in the competitive subcompact SUV market, its design evolution, variant lineup, interior elegance, advanced features, and competitive pricing collectively position it as a force to be reckoned with. Kia's ability to blend style with substance, offering a vehicle that not only looks appealing but also delivers a superior driving experience, is evident in the Sonet Facelift.