The automotive market is excitedly awaiting the December 14 official debut of the 2024 Kia Sonet makeover. However, before then, certain documents were leaked, providing important information about the upgraded sub-4 meter compact SUV. These leaks indicate that there will be seven different varieties of the updated Sonet available: HTE, HTK, HTK+, HTX, HTX+, GTX+, and X-Line.
The Kia Sonet facelift is anticipated to go on sale in January and cost between Rs 8 lakh and Rs 15 lakh (ex-showroom). The Tata Nexon, Maruti Suzuki Brezza, Hyundai Venue, and Mahindra XUV300 are among the established competitors in the market that the Sonet is poised to tackle thanks to its affordable pricing.
The Kia Sonet facelift’s three engine options are still available under the hood. The Smartstream G1.0-liter T-Gdi petrol engine generates a more powerful 120PS and 172Nm, whilst the Smartstream G1.2-liter petrol engine only manages to produce 83PS and 115Nm. A 1.5-liter CRDi VGT diesel engine producing 250Nm and 116PS is available. There are three different types of transmissions available: a 6-speed iMT, a 7-speed DCT, and a 5-speed manual for the 1.2-liter petrol engine. In addition to the current 6-speed iMT and 6-speed AT, the 1.5 diesel is equipped with the reintroduced 6-speed manual.
Taking design inspiration from the Seltos facelift, the exterior of the Kia Sonet has undergone a considerable redesign. It has modern DRLs, LED headlights, and a redesigned grille. For a modern appearance, the bumper and fog lights have also been changed. The Sonet’s upgraded LED taillights, linked by an LED strip, and redesigned rear bumper, which accentuate its robust look, make it resemble the Seltos from the back.
A digital instrument panel similar to the one in the Seltos facelift is installed within the cabin to give drivers a more engaging experience. The dashboard is anticipated to be dominated by a new infotainment system, most likely a 10.2-inch touchscreen display.
The Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) is a major addition to the Kia Sonet facelift. It will come with features like high beam assist, leading vehicle departure alert, lane keeping assist, lane departure warning, driver attention warning, and forward collision-avoidance assist for cars, pedestrians, and cyclists.
With the Hyundai Venue’s platform cousin already having ADAS capabilities, the Kia Sonet’s position in the market could improve with the addition of this package of safety features.
