2024 Kia Sonet Facelift in CarToq’s First Drive Review: Significantly Upgraded! [Video]
The Sonet entered the Indian market in 2020 and quickly became a high-selling product for the brand. Despite the growing competition in the sub-4m compact SUV segment, the Sonet stood out with its attractive design, multiple powertrain options, and abundant features. Kia has recently updated the Sonet SUV, and we had the chance to test drive it in Bhopal to provide you with this initial review. Additionally, there’s a video showcasing the new design and features of the car.
Kia has maintained the powertrain options in the new Sonet, with a notable reintroduction of the diesel-manual setup. Our focus, however, is on the turbo-petrol DCT version, which we had the opportunity to drive.
In terms of looks, the 2024 Kia Sonet has received significant cosmetic updates. The car is available in Tech-Line, GT Line, and X Line variants. The Tech Line variants exhibit slight changes in the front-end look. Our review pertains to the X Line trim, based on the GT Line.
The new Sonet presents a refreshed headlamp design with a dropdown LED DRL. The tiger nose grille is centered, and the bumper features sharp angles. The GT Line and X Line come with sleek LED fog lamps, while Tech Line variants feature Ice Cube fog lamps.
The side profile remains mostly unchanged, with the option for customers to select from four different alloy wheels based on their preference and variant choice.
The rear of the car undergoes significant changes, with new tail lamps inspired by the Seltos design, providing a more aggressive look compared to the previous version. The Sonet aims to attract a younger audience appreciative of sleek, stylish, and aggressive designs, and the new design aligns well with these preferences.
Regarding features, Kia has equipped the Sonet with several new features not found in the Seltos. The dashboard layout remains consistent, featuring two large 10.25-inch screens serving as the instrument cluster and infotainment system.
While hard plastic is used on the dashboard, soft-touch materials are present at touchpoints like the armrests on the doors. The driver benefits from electrically adjustable seats, though height adjustment still requires the use of a lever.
New additions to the Sonet include ventilated front seats, wireless phone charging with cooling, an updated Kia Connect system providing real-time weather updates and scores for various games, including cricket and football.
The overall quality, fit, and finish feel solid, showcasing the high cabin quality typical of Korean manufacturers. Notable features include contrasting seamed leather seats, quality switches and knobs, and a well-finished interior.
The updated infotainment system with Kia Connect introduces more features, such as a monitor utilizing a 360-degree camera to capture surroundings and send photos to your phone.
In terms of space, improvements have been made in the rear seats based on customer feedback. The new rear seats have scooped-out designs, increased thigh support, higher recline, and provide more space for rear passengers. Despite sacrificing 7 liters of boot space, the Sonet retains the most spacious boot in its segment.
On the driving front, the new Sonet maintains mechanical similarity with the pre-facelift version. During our test drive within city limits and on highways, the 1.0-litre three-cylinder engine, paired with DCT, demonstrated ample power (120 PS and 172 Nm). The car offers three driving modes – Eco, Normal, and Sport – altering engine mapping for a relaxed or aggressive drive. The ride quality is firm, contributing to stability at high speeds on highways. While the steering feedback isn’t exceptional, it’s something drivers can get used to.
The car is equipped with a Level-1 ADAS system, aiding in lane assist, blind-spot monitoring, and alerting the driver to various obstacles, enhancing overall safety. With 6 airbags standard across variants, the new ADAS system adds an extra layer of safety.
As for the question of whether one should buy the 2024 Kia Sonet, it depends on the pricing yet to be announced by Kia. However, as a package, the Sonet has seen significant improvements, offering features not currently available from other manufacturers. With enhanced rear seats, it presents itself as a more family-friendly option. If you frequently travel on highways and need a car that can handle daily traffic, the Sonet could be an excellent choice, pending the unveiling of its price, which Kia will announce tomorrow.