The compact SUV market in India has become one of the most competitive automotive segments. Among many strong contenders, the Kia Sonet has carved a special place for itself. Launched in 2020 and updated in 2023, it continues to attract buyers with its premium design, wide feature list, and powerful engine options. With its blend of style, technology, and practicality, the Kia Sonet has become one of the top choices for Indian families and young professionals alike.
In this review, we will look at the Kia Sonet 2025 in detail, covering its design, interior, performance, safety, features, and overall value for Indian customers.
Kia Sonet Quick Specs
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 1.2L Petrol, 1.0L Turbo Petrol, 1.5L Diesel |
| Power Output | 83 PS – 120 PS |
| Transmission Options | Manual, iMT, DCT, Automatic |
| Mileage (Approx.) | 18 – 22 kmpl |
| Seating Capacity | 5 |
| Boot Space | 392 Litres |
| Ground Clearance | 205 mm |
| Safety | 6 Airbags, ABS, ESC, ADAS (higher trims) |
Bold and Stylish Design
The Kia Sonet stands out with its eye-catching design. The signature tiger-nose grille at the front, sleek LED headlamps, and DRLs give it a sharp and modern look. The updated model now comes with connected LED taillights, giving it a sportier rear profile. The SUV sits on stylish alloy wheels that vary from 16-inch to 18-inch depending on the variant.
Compact dimensions make it city-friendly, but its muscular stance ensures it looks tough on the road. With dual-tone color options and sporty design cues, the Sonet appeals strongly to younger buyers.
Premium and Tech-Loaded Interior
Step inside the Kia Sonet, and it feels more premium than most rivals. The dashboard is modern, with a large 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system at the center. The system supports Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and Kia’s connected car technology.
The cabin feels well put together, with quality materials used across the trims. Ventilated front seats, wireless phone charging, ambient lighting, and a premium Bose sound system are available in higher variants. Rear seat comfort has improved with extra legroom, making it suitable for small families.
Also Read Honda Elevate Review – A Practical Mid-Size SUV for Indian Roads
Performance and Engine Options
The Kia Sonet offers multiple engine and gearbox choices, making it flexible for different kinds of buyers. It comes with:
- 1.2L Petrol Engine – 83 PS with a 5-speed manual.
- 1.0L Turbo Petrol Engine – 120 PS with iMT or 7-speed DCT.
- 1.5L Diesel Engine – 100 PS with a 6-speed manual or 116 PS with a 6-speed automatic.
The turbo-petrol engine is peppy and fun to drive, especially in city traffic and highways. The diesel engine is fuel-efficient and perfect for long-distance travelers. Kia’s iMT (clutchless manual) adds convenience for city users, while the DCT automatic is smooth and performance-oriented.
Ride and Handling
The compact SUV is built for Indian conditions. The suspension is well-tuned to handle potholes and uneven roads, offering a comfortable ride. Its steering is light, making it easy to maneuver in city traffic, but it also feels stable on highways.
Ground clearance of 205 mm ensures it can easily tackle speed breakers and rough rural roads. This makes the Kia Sonet a versatile choice for both urban and semi-urban buyers.
Safety Features
Safety is one of the key highlights of the new Kia Sonet. The SUV comes with up to 6 airbags, ABS with EBD, electronic stability control, vehicle stability management, and hill-start assist. The 2023 update also added ADAS Level 1 features like lane departure warning, forward collision avoidance, and driver attention warning in higher trims.
With these additions, the Sonet has become one of the safest compact SUVs in its segment.
Key Features of Kia Sonet
- 10.25-inch HD touchscreen with connected car tech.
- Bose 7-speaker premium sound system.
- Ventilated front seats.
- Wireless charger with cooling function.
- Air purifier with virus protection.
- Rear AC vents.
- Multiple drive and traction modes.
Price and Variants
The Kia Sonet is offered in multiple trims – HTE, HTK, HTK+, HTX, HTX+, GTX+, and X-Line. Prices in India start around ₹7.99 lakh (ex-showroom) and go up to ₹15.69 lakh (ex-showroom) for the top-end model. This wide price range makes it accessible for both budget buyers and those looking for a premium compact SUV experience.
Kia Sonet FAQs
1. Is the Kia Sonet good for long drives?
Yes, especially the diesel automatic version, which offers great mileage and comfort.
2. How is the Kia Sonet’s mileage?
The petrol version gives around 18 kmpl, while the diesel can deliver up to 22 kmpl depending on driving conditions.
3. Does the Kia Sonet have a sunroof?
Yes, higher trims offer an electric sunroof.
4. Which engine option is best in Kia Sonet?
If you want city performance, the 1.0L turbo petrol is best. For long-distance drives, the 1.5L diesel is more practical.
5. Is the Kia Sonet a safe car?
Yes, the Sonet comes with 6 airbags, ESC, and ADAS features in top trims, making it one of the safest compact SUVs.
Conclusion – Should You Buy the Kia Sonet in 2025?
The Kia Sonet 2025 continues to dominate the compact SUV segment in India. It offers stylish looks, premium interiors, advanced features, and multiple engine options. Its balance of performance, comfort, and safety makes it a well-rounded package.
For first-time SUV buyers, urban professionals, and families looking for a reliable and modern compact SUV, the Kia Sonet is an excellent choice. It competes with cars like the Hyundai Venue, Maruti Brezza, Tata Nexon, and Mahindra XUV300, but stands out due to its premium appeal and feature-loaded variants.
Author- Ayush
