Auto Expo 2020: Kia Sonet previewed

KUALA LUMPUR: Kia has revealed the Brezza-rival, the Sonet, in India at the Auto Expo 2020 which belongs to the sub-4m category. It looks like a scaled-down model of the outgoing Seltos but surely has plenty of differentiating characteristics. 

At the front, the Sonet gets the brand’s signature tiger-nose grille which is all the more aggressive than seen on the other Kia models. The grille is flanked by wide LED headlamps that feature unique daytime running lights. 

On the sides, you’d notice the squared-out wheel arches that give it an SUV touch. The shoulder line on the sides is very pronounced along with the red highlighting strips at the sides, front, rear, and wheels. At the rear, the SUV gets connected LED tail lamps. 

Inside, the Sonet is bestowed with features like wireless charging, sunroof, cruise control, automatic climate control, ventilated seats, remote engine start, air purifier, and Kia UVO connected features. Additionally, there is a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system and a Bose sound system for your entertainment needs. 

Powering the Sonet are two probable engines, a 1.0-litre T-GDI from the Venue and a 1.5-litre CRDI from the Seltos. While the former generates 125 PS of power mated to a 6-speed manual or 7-speed DCT, the CRDI engine pumps out 90 PS of power and 250 Nm of torque, coupled with a 6-speed manual gearbox. Plus, there is a naturally-aspirated 1.2-litre engine that’s paired with a 5-speed manual.

Going up against the likes of Maruti Suzuki Brezza, Hyundai Venue and Ford EcoSport there, the Kia Sonet will be launched in the second half of the ongoing year. Expected price range is between Rs 6.5 lakh (RM 37,570 approx) and Rs 11.20 lakh (RM 64,724 approx). 

Also read: 2021 Kia Sorento to be premiered on February 17, images leaked