Kia Sonet Bookings Commence; India Launch In September

• Bookings can be done either online or at authorised Kia Motors dealerships for a token amount of Rs 25,000.

• Notable features include a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, UVO connected car tech, wireless phone charging and a Bose sound system.

• Expect prices to start from Rs 7 lakh onwards.

• Rivals include the Hyundai Venue, Tata Nexon, Ford EcoSport, Mahindra XUV300 and the Maruti Suzuki Vitara Brezza.

Things are moving thick and fast for Kia’s recently unveiled Sonet sub-4m SUV ahead of its launch in September. Shortly after its detailed brochure was leaked, the carmaker has officially commenced bookings for the Sonet for a token amount of Rs 25,000. Bookings can be done either online or at authorised Kia Motors dealerships. A total of six variants will be offered within the Tech Line and GT Line trims: : HTE, HTK, HTK+, HTX, HTX+ and GTX+.

While the Sonet is based on the Hyundai Venue, it differentiates itself with its own design philosophy that takes cues from its larger sibling, the Seltos. Notable bits include Kia’s traditional ‘Tiger Nose’ grille coupled with LED headlights and LED DRLs, LED taillamps, 16-inch dual tone alloy wheels and butch body cladding all over. The GT Line gets red accents on areas like the grille, side skirts, brake calipers and alloy wheel hubs. The air dam inserts are slightly different, with the rear skid plate finished in black with red inserts.

 

The similarities with the Seltos continue on the inside, with the 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system and steering wheel. It will also be loaded with features like Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, a Bose 7-speaker audio system, UVO connected car tech, wireless phone charging, LED sound mood lighting, electric sunroof, ventilated front seats, smart key with push button stop-start and driving modes. Six airbags, ABS with EBD, front and rear parking sensors with a rear view camera, ESC, hill start assist and brake assist are some of the safety kit on offer.

Under the hood, the Sonet will be powered by the 1.2-litre naturally aspirated petrol, 1.0-litre turbo-petrol and  1.5-litre diesel engines. The main highlight though is that the diesel engine will be offered with a proper 6-speed torque converter automatic unlike its diesel rivals that come paired with an AMT.

The Kia Sonet is likely to retail from Rs 7 lakh (ex-showroom).  It will take on the likes of the  Hyundai Venue, Tata Nexon, Ford EcoSport, Mahindra XUV300 and the Maruti Suzuki Vitara Brezza.