Kia has face-lifted its popular Sonet SUV which competes in the highly competitive compact segment of the SUV market. This week, it was launched in Mzansi set to take on rivals from China, Japan and Germany.
The new Kia Sonet features a new lighting signature with LED daytime lights that run horizontally from the LED headlights. Fog lamps are neatly integrated into the lower bumper forming a line with the LED daytime lights. The tiger nose grille has been widened for what Kia terms as a "Tiger Face" grille. The lower part of the bumper features an SUV style air intake in grey finish.
The facelift also seas new 16-inch alloy wheels in different designs. Lower spec no longer get steel wheels with "wheel cap" like alloys whilst the top spec models get diamond cut design alloys. With a typical SUV ride height, the Sonet has an unmistakable posing look. At the rear there is a new LED light signature design with a light bar that links both rear lights. There is a new rear bumper design.
Kia has ratained the interior layout with quality textures used around the cabin. The multi function steering wheel retains controls for the audio, info and cruise control. Air con controls are neatly placed between air vents for front passengers.
There is a new 10.25inch infotainment screen with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay standard.
Rear space is designed to accommodate 3 adults whilst boot space is enhanced with the rear seats able to fold thus allowing more carrying space.
There are two engine options starting with the fuel-efficient 1.5 MPI three-cylinder engine that produces 85 kW of power at 6,300 r/min and 144 Nm torque at 4,500 r/min. The four-cylinder 1.0-litre T-GDi engine develops 88 kW of power at 6,000 r/min and 172 Nm of torque between 1,500- and 4,000 r/min. Customers have a choice between a 5-speed manual transmission or CVT when opting for the 1.5-litre engine, or a 7-speed dual clutch transmission (DCT) when opting for the 1.0 T-GDi.
The new Kia Sonet LX and EX range goes on sale on Tuesday, 18 June 2024, with EX Plus and SX derivatives available from late July 2024. Recommended retail pricing for the range is as follows:
Kia Sonet 1.5 LX Manual: R 366,995
Kia Sonet 1.5 LX CVT: R 391,995
Kia Sonet 1.5 EX CVT: R 411,995
Kia Sonet 1.0 T-GDi EX DCT: R 436,995
Kia Sonet 1.5 EX Plus CVT: R 454,995
Kia Sonet 1.5 SX CVT: R 484,995
All Sonet models ship as standard with Kia’s industry-leading Unlimited Kilometre/5-year warranty, inclusive of Roadside Assistance. In addition, a pre-paid 4-year / 60,000 km service plan is included to give customers peace of mind and predictability when it comes to vehicle maintenance. A variety of plan extension options are available at point of sale through Kia Financial Services for customers who require even more predictability of maintenance spend.