The Kia Sonet is one of the most stylish and feature-rich compact SUVs in India. It has become a popular choice among young buyers and families who want a modern-looking SUV with premium features. The Sonet combines eye-catching design, multiple engine options, and advanced technology — all at a competitive price. It’s built to tackle city roads and Indian driving conditions with ease.
Let’s explore everything about the Kia Sonet — from its design and interiors to engine performance, features, mileage, and more — in detail.
Kia Sonet Overview
| Specification | Key Details |
|---|---|
| Model | Kia Sonet |
| Engines | 1.2L Naturally Aspirated Petrol, 1.0L Turbo Petrol, 1.5L Diesel |
| Power Output | 83 PS (1.2L), 120 PS (1.0L Turbo), 100-115 PS (1.5L Diesel) |
| Torque | 115 Nm – 240 Nm |
| Transmission Options | 5MT, 6MT, iMT (Clutchless Manual), 7DCT, 6AT (Diesel) |
| Drive Type | Front-Wheel Drive |
| Seating Capacity | 5 |
| Boot Space | 385 litres |
| Ground Clearance | 205 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 litres |
| Mileage (ARAI) | Up to 24 km/l (Diesel) |
| Safety Features | Up to 6 Airbags, ESC, ABS with EBD, Hill Assist, ADAS (Level 1) |
| Infotainment | 10.25-inch Touchscreen, Kia Connect, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay |
| Price Range (Ex-showroom) | ₹7.5 lakh – ₹14.5 lakh (Approx.) |
Kia Sonet Design and Exterior
The Kia Sonet looks bold and modern from every angle. Its tiger-nose grille, LED DRLs, and muscular stance give it a premium SUV appearance. The sculpted bonnet, 16-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels, and sleek LED tail lamps enhance its sporty look.
The rear features a connected tail-lamp design that adds a sense of width to the SUV. Chrome accents around the windows and bumpers give it a more premium feel. Kia also offers dual-tone colour options that appeal to younger buyers.
For Indian conditions, the 205 mm ground clearance is perfect to handle uneven roads and speed breakers with ease. The Sonet has a solid road presence, making it one of the most attractive cars in its segment.
Kia Sonet Interior and Comfort
Inside, the Sonet offers a premium and comfortable cabin. Kia has used high-quality materials and soft-touch surfaces on key areas. The dashboard layout is driver-focused and neatly arranged.
Highlights of the interior include:
- 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system
- Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
- Ventilated front seats
- Automatic climate control
- Digital instrument cluster
- Leather-wrapped steering wheel
- Electric sunroof
- Ambient mood lighting
The seats are well-cushioned and provide good under-thigh support. The rear seat offers decent legroom and headroom for average-height passengers. The 385-litre boot space is more than enough for weekend trips or family luggage.
Kia Sonet Engine, Performance and Transmission
Kia offers multiple powertrain options with the Sonet, ensuring there’s something for every driver:
1.2L Petrol Engine
- Power: 83 PS
- Torque: 115 Nm
- Gearbox: 5-speed Manual
- Best for: Daily city drives and light users
1.0L Turbo Petrol Engine
- Power: 120 PS
- Torque: 172 Nm
- Gearbox: iMT (Clutchless Manual) / 7-speed DCT
- Best for: Enthusiastic drivers who want quick acceleration and sporty performance
1.5L Diesel Engine
- Power: 100 PS (MT) / 115 PS (AT)
- Torque: Up to 240 Nm
- Gearbox: 6-speed Manual or 6-speed Torque Converter Automatic
- Best for: Long highway drives and users with higher running
The Sonet’s turbo-petrol engine is punchy and fun to drive, while the diesel engine provides excellent torque and mileage. The iMT gearbox gives you the feel of a manual without a clutch pedal, making city driving smooth.
Kia Sonet Ride and Handling
The Sonet handles Indian roads very well. The suspension is tuned for a balance between comfort and control. It absorbs potholes and rough patches easily, and remains stable at high speeds.
The light steering makes parking and city manoeuvres easy. On highways, it feels firm enough for confident cruising. The Sonet’s compact dimensions make it practical for crowded cities while still offering SUV comfort.
Kia Sonet Features and Technology
Kia has loaded the Sonet with premium features. It offers many segment-first technologies that make it feel more like a larger SUV.
Key Features
- 10.25-inch HD touchscreen
- Wireless smartphone connectivity
- Ventilated seats
- Smart air purifier
- 360-degree camera
- Bose premium 7-speaker audio system
- Remote engine start via key
- Connected car technology (Kia Connect with over 60 features)
- Smart cruise control
- Auto headlamps and rain-sensing wipers
- LED projector headlamps
Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS)
The latest versions of the Sonet now include ADAS Level 1 features, such as:
- Forward collision warning
- Lane departure warning
- High beam assist
- Leading vehicle departure alert
These make driving safer and more relaxed, especially on long journeys.
Kia Sonet Safety Features
Safety is one of Kia’s top priorities. The Sonet’s body structure uses high-strength steel to enhance passenger protection.
Key Safety Equipment
- Up to 6 Airbags
- ABS with EBD
- Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
- Vehicle Stability Management (VSM)
- Hill-Start Assist Control (HAC)
- Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
- ISOFIX child seat mounts
With these features, the Kia Sonet offers a high level of safety for city and highway driving.
Kia Sonet Mileage and Maintenance
Fuel efficiency varies with engine choice and driving conditions.
ARAI-Claimed Mileage (Approximate)
- 1.2L Petrol: 18.4 km/l
- 1.0L Turbo Petrol (iMT/DCT): 18.2 – 19 km/l
- 1.5L Diesel (MT/AT): 22 – 24 km/l
The diesel variants are the most fuel-efficient and suitable for users with higher daily travel.
Maintenance costs are reasonable for the segment. Kia offers a 3-year / unlimited km standard warranty, which can be extended up to 5 years.
Kia Sonet Price in India
The Kia Sonet is priced between ₹7.5 lakh and ₹14.5 lakh (ex-showroom, India) depending on variant, engine, and gearbox.
Top trims like the GTX+ and X-Line variants offer maximum features and luxury. During festive seasons, Kia dealerships often announce attractive discounts and exchange offers, making it a great time to buy.
Kia Sonet vs Rivals
The Sonet competes with the Hyundai Venue, Tata Nexon, Maruti Suzuki Brezza, Mahindra XUV300, and Renault Kiger.
| Model | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Hyundai Venue | Similar platform, refined engines, strong service network |
| Tata Nexon | High safety rating, powerful EV variant |
| Maruti Brezza | Excellent mileage, low maintenance |
| Mahindra XUV300 | Strong build quality, powerful engine options |
| Renault Kiger | Affordable pricing, decent space |
The Kia Sonet stands out for its stylish design, premium interiors, and extensive feature list. It’s ideal for those who want a small SUV with a luxury feel.
Ownership and After-Sales Experience
Kia India has expanded its service network rapidly. Most owners report low maintenance costs and good customer service. The company offers service packages that help in saving long-term expenses.
Spare parts availability is good across metro and tier-2 cities. The resale value of the Sonet is also expected to remain strong because of Kia’s growing reputation in India.
Kia Sonet Pros and Cons
Pros
- Stylish and modern design
- Feature-packed cabin
- Smooth and punchy engines
- Good mileage (especially diesel)
- Multiple gearbox choices
- Premium fit and finish
Cons
- Rear seat space could be better
- Some features only in top trims
- Turbo petrol DCT costs more than manual options
FAQs about Kia Sonet
Q1: What is the on-road price of Kia Sonet in India?
The on-road price varies between ₹9 lakh and ₹17 lakh depending on the city and variant.
Q2: Which Kia Sonet variant is best?
The HTX+ and GTX+ trims offer the best balance between features and value.
Q3: Does the Kia Sonet have a sunroof?
Yes, the Sonet comes with an electric sunroof in mid and top variants.
Q4: Is Kia Sonet good for long drives?
Yes, the diesel automatic variant is perfect for long highway trips thanks to its high torque and fuel efficiency.
Q5: How safe is the Kia Sonet?
It comes with up to 6 airbags, ABS, ESC, and ADAS Level 1 features — ensuring high safety for passengers.
Q6: What is the maintenance cost of the Kia Sonet?
Average yearly maintenance costs range from ₹6,000 to ₹8,000 depending on usage and engine type.
Q7: What is the real-world mileage?
Expect around 13–15 km/l in petrol and 18–22 km/l in diesel depending on traffic and driving style.
Final Verdict – Why Kia Sonet is Worth Buying
The Kia Sonet is one of the most complete compact SUVs on Indian roads. It looks stunning, drives well, and offers class-leading features. Whether you want a stylish city SUV or a comfortable long-distance car, the Sonet fits both roles perfectly.
With its wide engine options, advanced features, and solid safety package, the Kia Sonet remains one of the best compact SUVs in India. If you’re looking for a mix of performance, technology, and style under ₹15 lakh, the Sonet is a smart and reliable choice for 2025.
