Kia Sonet vs Toyota Urban Cruiser: Specifications Compared

Come September 2020 and the sub-4 metre SUV segment will see two new entrants: the Kia Sonet and the Toyota Urban Cruiser. Both models are based on existing tried-and-tested SUVs. The Sonet shares its underpinnings with the Venue while the Urban Cruiser is almost a... err.. Vitara Brezza. But which of these two new SUVs should you pick up if you’re waiting for them in particular? The Kia or the Toyota? Let’s find out.

Dimensions

Note: Toyota is yet to reveal the Urban Cruiser’s exterior dimensions. We have used the Vitara Brezza’s dimensions for reference. 

Both models have similar exterior dimensions, matching up on almost all aspects. That said, the Kia Sonet has a larger 392-litre boot when compared to the Urban Cruiser’s 328 litre. 

Features

Common features on both models include LED headlamps with LED DRLs, a touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, climate control, cruise control, a multi-info display, and keyless entry with push button start. 

While the Urban Cruiser’s feature list might satisfy the common man, the competition has taken it up a notch. The Sonet’s niceties include a sunroof, connected car technology, drive modes, traction modes, a wireless phone charger, ventilated seats, ambient lighting, and even a branded Bose sound system. Phew!

Safety Features

Both models come with a minimum of two airbags, ABS with EBD, rear parking sensors and a rearview camera. But the Sonet again goes a step ahead with front parking sensors, electronic stability control and tyre pressure monitor. 

Petrol Engine

*iMT is Kia’s lingo for clutchless manual gearbox  

#Vitara Brezza’s fuel efficiency figures used for reference 

• Both models come with naturally aspirated petrol engines while the Kia is also offered with a 1.0-litre turbo-petrol unit. 

• The Urban Cruiser’s larger 1.5-litre engine is more powerful than the Sonet’s naturally aspirated 1.2-litre motor. However, it’s 15PS and 34Nm less powerful than the Sonet’s 1.0-litre turbo-petrol engine. 

• The Urban Cruiser and Kia Sonet NA petrol variants come with a manual gearbox while the Sonet Turbo relies on clutchless transmission options including an iMT and DCT. 

• The Urban Cruiser’s automatic variants feature a mild-hybrid system for start stop and torque assist function.  

• The Kia Sonet NA petrol is the most fuel-efficient manual model in this test while the Urban Cruiser’s AT variant sips the least amount of fuel. 

• The Sonet can also be had with a 100PS 1.5-litre diesel engine if your usage is high. It’s also the only diesel-powered sub-4 metre SUV to feature a torque converter with its automatic variants. 

Verdict

Sure, the Urban Cruiser’s top-spec trim is likely to undercut the Sonet’s top-spec variant. But the Sonet tries to justify the premium with more features and powertrain options, making it the better option here. The Sonet also comes with a diesel engine and is the practical choice for those who drive more kilometres. Clearly, the Sonet is the more appealing and safer option between the two.