The Kia Sonet is all set to get a mid-life makeover later this year. The updated crossover will likely make its global debut by the end of 2023 and go on sale in India around the same time.
Test mules of the Sonet facelift have already been spotted in the wild. The compact SUV will receive several updates both inside and out. The EV9 and EV5 concept could inspire exterior changes with a sharper design and vertical tail lamps with an LED light bar in the centre.
Facelift
The Sonet facelift is also expected to get an updated cabin. We might see a redesigned dashboard and new interior trims. It could carry forward features such as the touchscreen infotainment system, wireless charger, sunroof and digital instrument cluster.
The updated Sonet will likely use the same powertrains as the current model. These include a 1.2-litre naturally aspirated petrol, a 1.0-litre turbo-petrol and a 1.5-litre diesel unit. Transmission options include a 5-speed manual, 6-speed iMT, 6-speed AT and 7-speed DCT.
The critical changes expected on the Kia Sonet facelift:
- New front and rear fascias
- New LED headlamps and tail lamps
- New alloy wheels
- Updated interior with new dashboard, upholstery and features
- Same powertrain options as the current model
The Kia Sonet facelift is expected to be priced slightly higher than the current model. It will compete with the Hyundai Venue, Maruti Suzuki Brezza and Tata Nexon.
The Kia Sonet is a popular compact SUV with several advantages and potential drawbacks. Here are some pros and cons of the Kia Sonet:
Pros:
1. Stylish and Modern Design: The Kia Sonet is contemporary and eye-catching. It incorporates bold lines, a prominent grille, and sleek LED lighting, giving it a distinct and appealing look.
2. Feature-Packed: The Sonet comes loaded with many features and technologies. It offers modern amenities such as a touchscreen infotainment system, smartphone integration, a premium sound system, wireless charging, automatic climate control, and more, depending on the variant.
3. Spacious Cabin: Despite being a compact SUV, the Sonet provides a roomy and comfortable cabin. It offers ample headroom and legroom for both front and rear passengers. The seats are well-cushioned and supportive, making long journeys comfortable.
4. Safety Features: Kia has equipped the Sonet with several safety features to ensure occupant protection. It may include multiple airbags, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution), ESC (Electronic Stability Control), rear parking sensors/cameras, and more, depending on the variant.
5. Multiple Engine and Transmission Options: The Sonet offers a range of engine and transmission options, allowing customers to choose according to their preferences. It includes petrol, diesel, turbocharged petrol engines, and manual and automatic transmission choices.
Cons:
1. Limited Rear Seat Space: While the front seats are spacious, the rear seat space in the Sonet may feel cramped for taller passengers, especially compared to some competitors in its segment.
2. Firm Ride Quality: Sonet’s suspension setup tends to prioritize stability, which results in a slightly firm ride quality. While it helps maintain good handling characteristics, it may lead to a stiffer and less comfortable ride over rough roads.
3. Average Fuel Efficiency: Depending on the engine and transmission combination, the fuel efficiency of the Sonet may vary. However, some variants may offer average fuel efficiency figures compared to their competitors, particularly in urban driving conditions.
4. Limited Boot Space: The Sonet’s compact dimensions also mean that the boot space is relatively limited compared to larger SUVs. You might find the Sonet’s boot size restrictive if you frequently require ample luggage-carrying capacity.
5. Pricing: While the Kia Sonet offers many features and a modern design, it may be priced at a slightly higher range than some of its competitors in the compact SUV segment. However, the pricing can vary depending on the specific variant and optional features chosen.
Conclusion
The Kia Sonet is a stylish and feature-packed compact SUV that offers a range of engine and transmission options. It has a modern design, a spacious cabin, and many safety features. However, there are a few drawbacks, such as limited rear seat space, firm ride quality, average fuel efficiency, limited boot space, and potentially higher pricing than some competitors.
Overall, the Kia Sonet is a compelling option for those seeking a compact SUV with a stylish appearance and many features. It is particularly well-suited for urban driving and individuals prioritizing modern amenities and safety.
However, if rear seat space, ride comfort, or fuel efficiency are crucial factors for you, exploring other options and conducting a thorough comparison before making a final decision would be beneficial. Ultimately, a test drive and carefully considering your personal preferences and requirements will help you determine if the Kia Sonet meets your expectations.
Image Source : Autocar India
