After having brought the Seltos to India, Kia made a huge splash in the mid-size SUV segment and soon after, Kia decided to take on the SUV segment below, so it launched the compact Sonet. The Sonet has been an equally big hit in the Indian market, making other SUV makers have sleepless nights. The Sonet and Hyundai Venue share the same platform, but Kia cars has ensured their product offers a unique experience. So it's basically an all-new car.
A baby Seltos?
Coming to the design, the Kia Sonet looks very similar to its concept version, but there are bits that have changed for the production model. It features the signature Tiger Nose grille up-front, featuring a knurled and chrome look, while the GT Line version sports red elements. The stylish headlamps are LED ones with the 'heartbeat' DRL light inside and the bumper sports an aggressive look. The bonnet gives it some muscle at the front. The Kia Sonet looks more rounded on the sides, compared to the Venue, which is also one of the latest cars in India. The inset quarter glass looks nice with the smoked-out treatment. It even gets stylish alloy wheels. Move towards the back and you will notice it features an integrated spoiler and tail lamps that carry the 'heart-beat' DRL element, plus there's a reflector that runs the width of the rear. It also gets faux exhausts at the back.
Similar, but different
When it comes to interior room, the Kia Sonet reminds us of its Hyundai rival. The space at the rear is not as much as you'd imagine it to be, but the seat is comfortable. The front seats are big, well cushioned and come with ventilation. The quality, the kind of materials and the detailing are all better than its competition. The dashboard has an upmarket feel to it and it gets a solid steering wheel with well built buttons; the switchgear is very impressive. The Kia Sonet also features a digital instrument cluster. The main taking point inside is the 10.25-inch touchscreen, the biggest in its class.
Turbo launch
The Sonet is powered by various engines, but we drove the one powered by the 1.0-litre turbo petrol engine, paired either to an iMT or a DCT 'box. The engine makes 118bhp and 172Nm of torque and that three-cylinder thrum is not too prominent. Refinement is impressive for as long as you don't push it too hard. The mid-range is where the fun lies and it helps the Sonet pick up pace quickly, making it a spirited SUV to drive. Instead of paddle-shifters, you get a sequential function through the gear lever. However, it can't manage to keep up with the DSG from Volkswagen; we think the torque converter 'box on the diesel model is more slick. We also got our hands on the iMT 'box since its shifts smoothly and you can make the most of the engine. However, the iMT unit is not one that likes being hurried. If performance is a priority, then the DCT is the one to go for.
The road ahead
In terms of the ride, the Sonet absorbs bumps easily, but yes, you will feel a few solid whacks when you hit a sharp bump. The steering on the diesel model has a bit more weight to it, but it's the petrol model that feels nice to be in control of around bends. The Sonet feels planted and offers tonnes of confidence as the speeds climb. Grip from the tyres is good and body roll is kept in check. The steering offers good feedback, and the tight turning circle makes driving the Sonet easy in the city. With the help of the drive modes, the steering and engine characteristics get adjusted. In Sport mode, the steering gets a bit firm and you get traction modes like Snow, Mud and Sand. The Kia Sonet is among the latest cars in India in the compact SUV space.