Kia Sonet : Walking through the crowded showroom of Apex Motors last weekend, I couldn’t help but notice the unusual amount of attention one particular compact SUV was getting.
The Kia Sonet, with its bold design and impressive feature list, has steadily risen to become one of the most compelling options in the fiercely competitive sub-4-meter SUV segment.
Having spent a week with this vehicle recently, I’ve developed a newfound appreciation for how Kia has managed to pack premium features and solid engineering into a relatively affordable package.
Kia Sonet Design: Making a Statement Without Breaking the Bank
The Sonet’s design is a masterclass in making a vehicle look more expensive than it actually is. The first thing that catches your eye is the distinctive tiger-nose grille—an unmistakable Kia signature that gives the Sonet an aggressive, upmarket stance.
Flanking this grille are crown jewel LED headlamps with dramatic daytime running lights that create a lighting signature recognizable from a distance. These aren’t the kind of lighting elements you typically expect in this price segment.
My neighbor Rajesh, who recently traded in his premium hatchback for a Sonet, mentioned that the SUV’s design was a major selling point. “People mistake it for a much more expensive car,” he told me during our conversation over the fence.
“The way Kia has executed the details—like the crystal-cut alloy wheels and the connected LED tail lamps—gives it a premium vibe that’s missing from other cars in this segment.”
The Sonet comes in multiple color options including Gravity Grey, Aurora Black Pearl, Glacier White Pearl, Sparkling Silver, and Pewter Olive. The X-Line variant, with its exclusive Matte Graphite finish, takes the visual appeal up several notches.
The contrasting elements and the rugged styling details of the X-Line variant make it stand out in traffic, drawing attention wherever it goes.
Walking around the vehicle, you notice how the designers have incorporated muscular lines and bold body contours to create a sense of substance.
The faux skid plates, roof rails, and high ground clearance of 205mm further enhance its SUV credentials, allowing it to maintain a commanding road presence despite its sub-4-meter dimensions.
Cabin Experience: Punching Above Its Weight
Step inside the Sonet, and the premium experience continues. The cabin strikes a fine balance between modern aesthetics and practical usability.
The dashboard design is contemporary, with a clean layout that doesn’t overwhelm with unnecessary clutter. Materials used throughout the cabin may not all be soft-touch, but they’re well-textured and tastefully presented.
The centerpiece of the interior is the 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system that seamlessly integrates with the digital instrument cluster of the same size.
This dual-screen setup—a feature typically found in luxury cars—creates a cockpit-like feel that tech-savvy buyers will appreciate. The screens offer crisp resolution and good visibility even under direct sunlight.
“I was torn between the Venue and Sonet,” admits Priya, a software engineer who purchased her Sonet GTX+ variant three months ago. “What finally sold me was the cabin tech. The dual-screen setup and the ventilated seats were features I didn’t expect to find in this price range.”
Speaking of ventilated seats, they’re a godsend during India’s sweltering summers. This feature, along with others like the electric sunroof, wireless phone charger, and premium Bose sound system, elevates the in-cabin experience significantly.
The Bose system, in particular, with its seven-speaker setup including a subwoofer, delivers audio quality that would satisfy even discerning audiophiles.
The seating position is typically SUV-like—high and commanding—offering good visibility all around. The front seats provide adequate comfort and support for long journeys, though taller passengers might find the rear seating a bit cramped due to the Sonet’s compact dimensions. This is perhaps one area where the sub-4-meter constraints are most noticeable.
Storage spaces are thoughtfully designed throughout the cabin, with adequately sized door pockets, a decent glovebox, and cleverly positioned cupholders. The boot space of 385 liters is surprisingly generous for a vehicle of this size, easily accommodating weekend luggage for a family of four.
Technology: Where the Sonet Truly Shines
Technology is perhaps the Sonet’s strongest suit, offering features that were once exclusive to vehicles costing twice as much. The UVO connected car suite includes over 60 connected features, allowing owners to remotely start the engine, pre-cool the cabin, locate the vehicle, and access vehicle diagnostics—all from their smartphone.
The 10.25-inch infotainment system supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, ensuring seamless smartphone integration. The interface is intuitive, with quick response times and minimal lag.
Voice recognition capabilities allow for hands-free control of various functions, though it occasionally struggles with Indian accents and ambient noise.
One of the most impressive tech inclusions is the Level 1 ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) suite, which includes Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Lane Keep Assist, Lane Following Assist, and Driver Attention Warning. Having these safety technologies in a vehicle at this price point represents significant value.
“The ADAS features were something I didn’t even consider possible in this segment,” remarks Vikram, a safety-conscious father of two who recently purchased the top-end Sonet variant.
“The lane keep assist function works surprisingly well on highways, and knowing the car can help avoid potential collisions gives me peace of mind when driving with my family.”
The 360-degree camera system with dynamic guidelines makes parking in tight spots significantly easier—a useful feature given the urban environments where the Sonet will primarily operate. The display quality is clear, and the multiple viewing angles provide comprehensive visibility around the vehicle.
Other tech highlights include:
A smart air purifier with virus and bacteria protection
Ambient mood lighting with multiple color options
Smart key with push-button start
Tire pressure monitoring system
Drive mode select (Normal, Eco, Sport)
Traction modes (Snow, Mud, Sand)
These features collectively create a tech-rich environment that feels much more premium than the price tag would suggest.
Powertrain Options: Something for Everyone
The Sonet caters to diverse customer preferences by offering three distinct engine options, each with multiple transmission choices:
The 1.2-liter naturally aspirated petrol engine produces 82 bhp and 115 Nm of torque. It’s paired exclusively with a 5-speed manual transmission and serves as the entry point to the Sonet range. While not particularly exciting in terms of performance, it delivers adequate urban drivability and excellent fuel efficiency.
The 1.0-liter turbocharged petrol engine is the enthusiast’s choice, generating 118 bhp and 172 Nm of torque. It can be had with either a 6-speed manual, a 6-speed iMT (intelligent manual transmission without a clutch pedal), or a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic. This powertrain delivers spirited performance with minimal turbo lag and a satisfying power delivery.
The 1.5-liter diesel engine develops 113 bhp and a substantial 250 Nm of torque. Transmission options include a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed torque converter automatic. This powertrain shines on long highway journeys, offering a compelling blend of performance and efficiency.
I had the opportunity to test the 1.0-liter turbo petrol with the DCT transmission during my week with the Sonet. The powertrain feels refined and responsive, with the dual-clutch gearbox delivering quick, seamless shifts. Sport mode sharpens throttle response and holds gears longer, though it can feel a bit jerky in stop-and-go traffic. For everyday driving, Normal or Eco modes offer a more relaxed experience with better fuel economy.
Mahesh, a sales executive who covers substantial distances for work, opted for the diesel automatic variant. “I regularly drive 150-200 kilometers daily, and the diesel Sonet has been remarkably efficient,” he explains during our conversation at a highway rest stop.
“I’m consistently getting 18-19 kmpl despite heavy air conditioning use and mostly highway driving. The torque converter is smooth in traffic, which makes my daily commute less tiring.”
The multiple powertrain options ensure that there’s a Sonet variant to suit different driving preferences and usage patterns—from cost-conscious city commuters to highway cruisers and even enthusiasts looking for a fun driving experience.
Driving Dynamics: Balancing Comfort and Control
The Sonet’s driving dynamics are well-calibrated for Indian road conditions. The suspension setup—McPherson struts at the front and a coupled torsion beam axle at the rear—strikes a good balance between ride comfort and handling stability.
Over broken roads and speed breakers, the Sonet maintains its composure, absorbing impacts without excessive body movement. The suspension doesn’t crash through potholes, and road imperfections are filtered out reasonably well, though sharp edges can occasionally be felt in the cabin.
Steering feel is on the lighter side, which aids maneuverability in tight urban spaces but firms up sufficiently at higher speeds to inspire confidence.
The turning radius is tight, making U-turns and parking maneuvers a breeze—an important consideration for a vehicle designed primarily for urban use.
Body roll is well-controlled for an SUV of this height, and the Sonet feels planted through corners. It’s not a sporty handler by any means, but it’s predictable and reassuring when pushed.
The disc brakes at the front and drums at the rear (all-disc in higher variants) provide adequate stopping power, though the pedal feel could be more progressive.
NVH (Noise, Vibration, Harshness) levels are impressively managed for a vehicle in this segment. Wind and road noise are well suppressed at highway speeds, contributing to a more premium driving experience. The diesel engine exhibits some clatter at idle and under hard acceleration, but it’s not intrusive during normal driving.
Safety: No Compromises
Kia has made a significant statement by offering 6 airbags as standard across all Sonet variants—a move that sets a new benchmark in the segment where competitors often provide only dual front airbags in their base variants.
Beyond the airbags, the Sonet comes equipped with Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Hill-Start Assist Control (HAC), Vehicle Stability Management (VSM), and an anti-lock braking system (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) as standard across all variants. This comprehensive safety package addresses both active and passive safety aspects.
Higher variants add features like front and rear parking sensors, Emergency Stop Signal (ESS), and the Blind View Monitor (BVM), which displays a feed from the side cameras in the instrument cluster when the turn indicators are activated—effectively eliminating blind spots.
The structural integrity of the Sonet inspires confidence, with high-strength steel used in critical areas of the chassis. While the Indian-spec Sonet hasn’t undergone NCAP testing, the underlying engineering principles and comprehensive safety features suggest a vehicle designed with occupant protection as a priority.
Variants and Value Proposition
The Sonet is available in seven primary variants—HTE, HTK, HTK+, HTX, HTX+, GTX+, and X-Line—with numerous sub-variants based on engine and transmission combinations. This expansive lineup allows buyers to choose a configuration that precisely matches their requirements and budget.
Starting at ₹8 lakh for the base HTE variant and extending to approximately ₹15.75 lakh for the top-end GTX+ Diesel AT and X-Line models (ex-showroom), the Sonet spans a wide price range.
The sweet spot in the lineup is arguably the HTX variant, which offers a compelling blend of features without the premium price tag of the range-topping models.
“I initially budgeted for the HTK+ variant,” shares Anand, a small business owner from Pune. “But after comparing the features, I stretched to the HTX trim.
The extra ₹70,000 got me the larger touchscreen, connected car features, and LED headlamps. Looking back, it was definitely worth the additional investment.”
While the higher variants do command a significant premium, they offer features that are genuinely uncommon in this segment—like ventilated seats, Bose audio, and ADAS functions.
For buyers who prioritize these premium touches, the top-end variants still represent good value compared to larger, more expensive SUVs with similar feature sets.
Kia offers a standard 3-year/unlimited kilometer warranty on the Sonet, which can be extended at additional cost. Maintenance costs are reasonable for the segment, with service intervals set at 10,000 kilometers or 12 months, whichever comes first.
Competition and Market Position
The sub-4-meter SUV segment is among the most hotly contested in the Indian automotive market, with strong contenders like the Maruti Suzuki Brezza, Tata Nexon, Mahindra XUV3XO, and Hyundai Venue vying for market share.
In this crowded field, the Sonet has carved out a distinct position by emphasizing premium features, technology, and powertrain diversity. While it may not be the cheapest option in the segment, it justifies its pricing through superior equipment levels and perceived quality.
The Hyundai Venue shares its platform and powertrains with the Sonet but adopts a slightly different approach to styling and feature distribution.
The relationship between these corporate cousins is similar to that between the Creta and Seltos in the compact SUV segment—offering customers different flavors of essentially the same technical package.
The recently introduced Mahindra XUV3XO has upped the ante with its strong design and feature set, while the Tata Nexon continues to appeal with its robust safety credentials and value pricing. The Maruti Suzuki Brezza leverages its extensive service network and brand reliability as key selling points.
Against these competitors, the Sonet’s strengths lie in its sophisticated technology package, premium cabin experience, and the perception of being a more upmarket product. Its weaknesses include slightly tighter rear seat space compared to some rivals and higher pricing for top-end variants.
Living with the Sonet: Ownership Insights
To gain a better understanding of the Sonet ownership experience, I spoke with several owners who have lived with the vehicle for extended periods.
Deepak, who has clocked over 25,000 kilometers in his diesel Sonet in 18 months, shared his perspectives: “The fuel efficiency has been consistently impressive—averaging 17-18 kmpl in mixed driving conditions. Service costs have been reasonable too, with each scheduled maintenance costing between ₹5,000-8,000 depending on the service type.”
Reliability reports have generally been positive, with no major mechanical issues reported by the owners I interviewed. Minor niggles included occasional glitches with the infotainment system that were resolved through software updates, and some complaints about plastic quality in specific areas of the cabin.
The UVO connected car features have proven genuinely useful rather than being mere gimmicks. The remote engine start and climate control functions are particularly appreciated during extreme weather conditions, allowing the cabin to be pre-cooled or warmed before entering the vehicle.
Kia Sonet Conclusion: Redefining Value in the Compact SUV Segment
The Kia Sonet represents a significant shift in how we define value in the automotive context. Rather than competing purely on price, Kia has chosen to offer a product that feels genuinely premium and technologically advanced, even if it commands a slight premium over some competitors.
This approach has clearly resonated with consumers, as evidenced by the Sonet’s strong sales performance since its introduction. The vehicle has helped Kia establish a solid foothold in the Indian market, complementing the success of its larger sibling, the Seltos.
For prospective buyers, the Sonet makes the most sense if you value technology, features, and a premium in-cabin experience in a compact package.
The diverse powertrain options ensure that there’s a variant to suit different requirements and preferences, from fuel-efficient commuters to more enthusiast-oriented configurations.
Where the Sonet might fall short is in absolute rear seat space—a consequence of its sub-4-meter dimensions—and in entry-level pricing compared to some competitors. However, when assessed on a feature-to-feature basis, it delivers competitive value across its variant lineup.
As manufacturers increasingly move toward electrification and advanced technology, the Sonet serves as a compelling example of how traditional internal combustion engine vehicles can remain relevant and desirable through thoughtful engineering and feature integration.
It demonstrates that premium features need not be restricted to premium price points—a philosophy that benefits consumers across all segments.
In a market obsessed with “more for less,” the Kia Sonet offers “better for reasonable”—a subtle but significant distinction that has helped it carve out a distinctive position in India’s competitive automotive landscape.
Its success has forced competitors to up their game, resulting in better products across the segment—a win for consumers regardless of which brand they ultimately choose.