Kia Sonet

Engines, mileage, and running cost

The Kia Sonet is available with three distinct powertrains. The entry point is the 1.2-litre Smartstream naturally aspirated petrol (61 kW / 115 Nm), paired exclusively with a 5-speed manual. It returns a claimed 18.4 kmpl and suits buyers who prioritise low purchase and running costs. The mid-range 1.0-litre Smartstream T-GDi turbo-petrol (88 kW / 172 Nm) is the liveliest petrol option, available with either a 6-speed intelligent Manual Transmission (iMT) or a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic (DCT), claiming up to 19.2 kmpl on the DCT. The 1.5-litre CRDi VGT diesel (85 kW / 250 Nm) is the efficiency champion at 24.1 kmpl (claimed, 6MT) and is the only engine offered with a 6-speed torque-converter automatic — a segment-first pairing that Kia introduced at a more accessible price point in March 2026, with diesel-AT variants now starting at ₹9.77 lakh.

Kia claims the Sonet has the lowest maintenance cost in its segment — 16% below the petrol average and 14% below the diesel average, per Frost & Sullivan research. The 45-litre fuel tank (petrol variants) means fewer fill-up stops on long runs. Residual value is also cited as best-in-segment, 3% above average, which lowers the total cost of ownership over a typical ownership cycle.

Performance and drive

The 1.0-litre turbo-petrol is the driver's choice: 172 Nm of torque from low revs gives it a punchy, responsive character that suits both city overtakes and highway cruising. The 7-speed DCT shifts quickly in normal driving but can feel hesitant at very low speeds in stop-start traffic — a known trait of wet-clutch DCTs. The 6iMT is a good middle ground, offering clutchless convenience without the DCT's occasional jerkiness. The 1.2-litre petrol is smooth and refined but noticeably less urgent; Autocar India recommends it specifically for buyers who want the most jerk-free driving experience.

The diesel's 250 Nm of torque makes it the most effortless engine for highway work, and the 6-speed automatic transforms it into a genuinely relaxed long-distance cruiser. The HTX trim adds traction modes (Sand / Mud / Wet) on automatic variants and paddle shifters, giving the Sonet a degree of off-road versatility unusual for a sub-4-metre SUV. Ride quality is generally well-judged for Indian roads, with the suspension tuned to absorb broken surfaces without excessive body roll.

Cabin, space, and tech

Inside, the Sonet's cabin feels premium relative to its price. Top trims (GTX+ and X Line) get dual 10.25-inch screens — a touchscreen infotainment unit and a full digital instrument cluster — along with a 7-speaker Bose premium audio system and LED ambient mood lighting. Front ventilated seats and a 4-way power driver's seat are also GTX+/X Line exclusives. The HTK+ and above add a wireless smartphone charger, while the HTX and above include a Smart Pure Air Purifier with virus and bacteria protection.

Kia Connect brings 70+ connected car features including Alexa home-to-car connectivity, OTA map and system updates, remote AC control, and voice-controlled window function. The 385-litre boot is competitive for the segment, and the 60:40 split rear seats (HTK+(O) and above) improve practicality. Rear headroom is adequate for average-height adults, though taller passengers may find the roofline slightly snug. The electric sunroof is available from mid-range trims upward and is a popular feature in this segment.

Safety and ADAS

The Sonet's safety story is one of its strongest selling points. 6 airbags are standard across every variant — front dual, front side seat, and side curtain — making it one of the few sub-4-metre SUVs to offer this without a premium. The 15-feature Hi-Safety Package is also standard across the range, covering Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Hill Assist Control (HAC), Vehicle Stability Management (VSM), Brake Assist System (BAS), ABS with EBD, Emergency Stop Signal (ESS), and all-seat 3-point seatbelts with reminders.

ADAS Level 1 with 10 autonomous features is reserved for the GTX+ and X Line. The suite includes Front Collision Warning (FCW), Front Collision-Avoidance Assist for cars, pedestrians, and cyclists (FCA), Lane Keep Assist (LKA), Lane Following Assist (LFA), Lane Departure Warning (LDW), High Beam Assist (HBA), Driver Attention Warning (DAW), and Leading Vehicle Departure Alert (LVDA). The GTX+ and X Line also add a 360-degree camera with Blind View Monitor in the instrument cluster, and front and rear parking sensors. Rear disc brakes are fitted on HTX, GTX+, and X Line trims. The Sonet has not yet been rated by Bharat NCAP or Global NCAP.

Variants and pricing

The Sonet range spans eight trim levels. The entry HTE (₹7.31 lakh) and HTE(O) (₹7.83 lakh) cover the 1.2-litre petrol manual and diesel-AT basics. The HTK(O) (₹8.84 lakh) adds connected LED taillights, 16-inch alloys, an 8-inch touchscreen, and keyless entry. The HTK+ (₹9.23 lakh) and HTK+(O) (₹9.71 lakh) bring LED DRLs, push-button start, electrically folding mirrors, and — on the (O) — a dashcam with dual cameras and Crown Jewel LED headlamps. The HTX (₹11.50 lakh) introduces ADAS-adjacent cruise control, traction modes, paddle shifters, and leatherette seats. The GTX+ (₹13.65 lakh) is the full-feature flagship with ADAS Level 1, dual 10.25-inch screens, Bose audio, ventilated front seats, and a 360-degree camera. The X Line (₹13.79 lakh) adds the Matte Graphite exterior, Xclusive Sage Green interior inserts, and X Line badging for a more distinctive look.

How it compares

Against the Hyundai Venue, the Sonet offers more engine and gearbox combinations and standard 6 airbags across all variants — the Venue matches on features but the Sonet's diesel-AT breadth is wider. Versus the Tata Nexon, the Sonet is slightly smaller but more feature-rich at equivalent price points; the Nexon has a 5-star Global NCAP rating which the Sonet cannot yet match. The Maruti Fronx undercuts the Sonet on price and offers a strong hybrid option, but lacks a diesel and has fewer gearbox choices. The Mahindra XUV 3XO offers more interior space and a stronger ADAS suite at the top end, but its diesel-automatic combination is pricier. The Sonet's unique advantage remains its five-gearbox lineup and the segment-first 6-speed torque-converter automatic on the diesel.

Who should buy it

The Kia Sonet is the right choice for buyers who want maximum powertrain flexibility in a sub-4-metre SUV. The 1.2-litre petrol manual suits first-time buyers and city commuters on a tight budget. The 1.0-litre turbo-petrol DCT is ideal for enthusiasts who want a peppy, automatic-equipped petrol without stepping up to a larger car. The 1.5-litre diesel automatic is the pick for high-mileage users and highway-heavy drivers who want effortless cruising and the best fuel economy in the segment. Buyers who prioritise safety will appreciate the standard 6 airbags and ESC across all trims. Those who can wait should note that a next-generation Sonet on Kia's K1 platform, with larger screens and Level 2 ADAS, is expected in 2027.