For people who love cars, Kia has officially confirmed that the India-only Sonet will make its public debut on December 14. For the Korean automaker's sub-4-metre SUV, this is a critical time as it prepares for its first mid-lifecycle update since going on sale in September 2020. Given the model's early success and the buzz it generated in the small SUV market, there is an obvious feeling of excitement surrounding the mid-life upgrade of the Kia Sonet. Since Kia has always been a company that pushed the envelope in terms of design and innovation, fans and potential clients alike are entitled to an improved driving experience from the upcoming introduction.
In the midst of the thriving Indian auto industry, the Sonnet has distinguished itself with its attractive styling, packed interior, and excellent performance. With improvements and improvements in line with the changing tastes of Indian customers, the mid-lifecycle revision attempts to expand on these qualities. The official confirmation that the new Sonet's pricing will be made public early in the upcoming year is one of the major surprises. This calculated action not only builds excitement for the premiere on December 14 but also prepares fans for an even bigger thrill when the price becomes known in the upcoming months.
Key Points
1. Exterior Dynamics
1. Redesigned Front Profile
- New front bumper and headlight assembly.
- Main headlamp cluster retains design with a new drop-down element.
- Upgraded LED Daytime Running Lamps and fog lamps enhance visibility.
2. Captivating Alloy Wheels
- 16-inch dual-tone alloy wheels with a diamond-cut design.
- Distinctive and performance-oriented, contributing to the SUV's overall appeal.
3. Inspired Rear Design
- Seltos-inspired LED tail lights.
- LED light bar on the tailgate.
- Boxier rear bumper and integrated spoiler for a cohesive and sporty look.
4. Modern Additions
- Dual-tone roof rails and shark-fin antenna.
- Introduction of an electric sunroof for an enhanced driving experience.
2. High Performance
A verified engine lineup
- keeping the current 1.5-liter diesel, 1.0-liter turbo-petrol, and 1.2-liter gasoline engines.
- Power values: 115 PS/250 Nm, 120 PS/172 Nm, and 83 PS/115 Nm, in that order.
Options for Transmission
- The 1.2-liter gasoline engine is mated to a 5-speed manual transmission.
- For diesel and turbo-petrol engines, a 6-speed iMT is available.
- A turbo-petrol 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.
- For the diesel engine, a 6-speed automated transmission with a variety of settings is available.
3. Creative Design and Elegance within
Cluster of Digital Instruments
- Introduction of an instrument cluster that is entirely digital for an innovative and adaptable interface.
Touch-sensitive Controls
- Touch-based controls are integrated for AC functions, providing a smooth and user-friendly experience.
Elegant Interior Theme
- Tan and black interior design creates an opulent and elegant atmosphere.
Comfort of the Passenger
- Rear passengers' built-in sun blinds improve their comfort and privacy when travelling.
As the automotive industry witnesses the imminent debut of the refreshed Kia Sonet, the spotlight extends beyond the exterior changes and power-packed performance.
Comfort Redefined: Ventilated Front Seats and Automated Temperature Controls
Passenger comfort takes centre stage in the refreshed Sonet, with a thoughtful inclusion of ventilated front seats. In the scorching heat or during long drives, these seats promise a more relaxed and enjoyable journey for both the driver and front-seat passenger.
Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS): A Safety and Convenience Boost
While details about the availability of the Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) in the Sonet Facelift are yet to be confirmed, speculations suggest that this advanced safety feature may find its place in the top-tier models.
Competitive Landscape: Taking on Rivals in Style
The refreshed Sonet is poised to enter a competitive arena, facing off against formidable rivals in the compact SUV segment. Among its competitors are the Hyundai Venue, Tata Nexon, Mahindra XUV300, Maruti Suzuki Brezza, Maruti Suzuki Fronx, Nissan Magnite, and Renault Kiger. With the facelift, Kia aims not only to maintain but to enhance these attributes, catering to the evolving expectations of Indian SUV enthusiasts.
As with any significant update, there's an anticipation of a modest price increase for the refreshed Sonet. The inclusion of new features, design enhancements, and potential technology upgrades may contribute to a slight adjustment in the pricing strategy. The current pricing of the Sonet ranges from Rs 7.79 lakh to Rs 14.89 lakh, offering a diverse range to accommodate different budgets and preferences. The countdown to the debut on December 14 continues, and the automotive community eagerly awaits the unveiling of the enhanced Kia Sonet.