The Kia Sonet has quickly become one of the best-selling compact SUVs in India since its debut. Known for its stylish design, premium features, and multiple engine options, the Sonet appeals to buyers who want SUV looks, modern technology, and reliable performance in an affordable package. In 2025, Kia has refreshed the Sonet with updates to design, interiors, and safety, making it one of the most competitive offerings in the sub-4-meter SUV segment.
This detailed article covers everything about the Kia Sonet — design, interior, engine and transmission options, mileage, safety, pricing, pros & cons, and how it stacks up against rivals.
Kia Sonet Overview
The Kia Sonet is Kia’s compact SUV designed specifically for the Indian market. Positioned below the Kia Seltos, it delivers SUV styling and premium features at a more affordable price point. It competes directly with the Hyundai Venue, Tata Nexon, Renault Kiger, Maruti Brezza, and Mahindra XUV300.
Highlights of the Kia Sonet:
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Bold, sporty design with Kia’s signature tiger-nose grille.
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Packed with segment-leading features, including connected car technology.
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Offered with petrol, turbo-petrol, and diesel engines.
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Multiple transmission choices, including iMT, DCT, and torque converter.
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Wide range of trims, making it suitable for budget and premium buyers alike.
Kia Sonet Exterior Design
The Kia Sonet’s design is one of its strongest selling points. It combines modern SUV styling with sporty elements.
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Front fascia: Kia’s iconic tiger-nose grille with chrome surrounds.
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Headlamps: LED projector lamps with integrated DRLs.
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Sporty bumpers and skid plates enhance SUV appeal.
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Dual-tone paint options with contrast roof for premium look.
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R16 diamond-cut alloy wheels (higher trims).
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LED tail lamps with signature light bar design.
Its compact size makes it city-friendly, while the design gives it a road presence bigger than its dimensions.
Kia Sonet Interior & Features
Step inside the Kia Sonet, and you’ll notice the premium feel compared to most rivals in this segment.
Cabin Highlights:
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10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto & Apple CarPlay.
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Digital instrument cluster with customizable themes.
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Premium Bose 7-speaker sound system (higher trims).
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Ventilated front seats for added comfort.
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Wireless phone charger with cooling function.
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Spacious cabin with ample headroom and legroom.
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392-litre boot space, practical for families.
The cabin design is driver-centric, with ergonomically placed controls. Even base variants are decently equipped, while top trims rival bigger SUVs in terms of luxury.
Kia Sonet Engine & Performance
The Kia Sonet offers one of the widest ranges of engines and transmissions in its segment, making it appealing to a wide audience.
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1.2L Naturally Aspirated Petrol
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Power: ~83 PS
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Transmission: 5-speed manual
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Best for city users who prioritize efficiency.
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1.0L Turbo Petrol
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Power: ~120 PS
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Transmission: 6-speed iMT (clutchless manual) / 7-speed DCT
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Offers sporty performance, ideal for highway and spirited driving.
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1.5L Diesel
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Power: ~100 PS (MT) / ~115 PS (AT)
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Transmission: 6-speed manual / 6-speed automatic
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Diesel option stands out for torque-rich performance and fuel efficiency.
This wide choice of powertrains ensures that there’s a Sonet for every type of buyer.
Kia Sonet Mileage
Fuel efficiency is another key strength of the Kia Sonet:
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1.2L Petrol (MT): ~18 km/l
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1.0L Turbo Petrol (iMT/DCT): ~17–18 km/l
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1.5L Diesel (MT): ~21 km/l
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1.5L Diesel (AT): ~19 km/l
This makes the Sonet one of the most efficient compact SUVs, especially the diesel variants.
Kia Sonet Variants & Price
The Kia Sonet is available in multiple trims: HTE, HTK, HTK+, HTX, HTX+, GTX+, and X-Line.
Price Range (2025): ₹7.9 lakh – ₹14.5 lakh (ex-showroom).
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Base HTE trim is for budget-conscious buyers.
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HTX and HTX+ offer balanced features at a good price.
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GTX+ and X-Line provide sporty styling and premium tech.
Kia Sonet Safety Features
Kia has improved the safety package of the Sonet in 2025:
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6 airbags in higher trims (dual airbags standard).
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ABS with EBD.
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Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and Hill Assist Control.
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Rear parking sensors and camera.
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Tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS).
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ISOFIX child seat mounts.
The Sonet’s strong build and advanced safety kit make it a reliable choice for families.
Kia Sonet Pros & Cons
Pros:
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Stylish, modern design with premium appeal.
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Wide engine and transmission choices.
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Feature-rich cabin with segment-firsts like ventilated seats and Bose speakers.
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Diesel option available (rare in this segment).
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Strong aftersales support through Kia-Hyundai network.
Cons:
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Top trims get expensive.
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Rear seat better for two adults than three.
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Ride quality is firm on rough roads.
Kia Sonet vs Competitors
The Kia Sonet competes with:
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Hyundai Venue – Similar underpinnings, but Sonet feels sportier.
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Maruti Brezza – Reliable and fuel-efficient, but fewer premium features.
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Tata Nexon – Safer build and electric option, but design is polarizing.
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Renault Kiger / Nissan Magnite – More affordable but fewer features.
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Mahindra XUV300 – Great safety and performance, but smaller boot.
Among these, the Sonet positions itself as a premium, feature-rich SUV with multiple drivetrain options.
Who Should Buy the Kia Sonet?
The Kia Sonet is ideal for:
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Young professionals who want a stylish, modern SUV.
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Families who need practicality with premium features.
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Diesel lovers who need long-distance efficiency.
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Buyers seeking tech-loaded interiors and connected features.
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Drivers who want sporty turbo petrol performance.
Final Verdict on Kia Sonet
The Kia Sonet has established itself as one of the strongest contenders in India’s compact SUV market. With its stylish design, wide range of engines, premium interiors, and long list of features, it offers something for every type of buyer. While top trims are expensive, even the mid-level variants deliver a great balance of features and value.
If you’re looking for a compact SUV in 2025 that combines style, technology, and performance, the Kia Sonet should definitely be on your shortlist.