Kia South Africa has just launched the revamped Sonet, and it’s set to make another strong impact on local buyers. Since its introduction in 2021, the Sonet has quickly become a favourite in the competitive A-SUV market, and this latest update promises to make it even more appealing.
The updated Sonet boasts a sporty, eye-catching design. The Sonet is inspired by Kia’s ‘Opposites United’ design philosophy, combining nature and modernity for a futuristic look. With a new front bumper, an updated ‘tiger nose’ grille, and redesigned taillights, this compact SUV has a bold, confident stance.
Related: Kia Seltos CRDi Bolsters Local Line-Up
Despite these stylish updates, the Sonet retains its compact dimensions, ensuring it’s just as manoeuvrable and practical as before. With a height of 1 610 mm, length of 4 110 mm, and width of 1 790 mm, it offers plenty of cabin space without compromising on ease of handling. The 385 L boot capacity is one of the largest in its class, perfect for storing all your adventure gear.
![kia,sonet](https://www.leisurewheels.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/kia-2-min.jpg)
Interior & Tech
Inside, the Sonet is all about comfort and technology. The high-quality interior features two infotainment screen options: an 8-inch colour touchscreen or a 10.25-inch integrated colour touchscreen, depending on the model. These screens are designed to keep important controls within easy reach.
The seating is a mix of black cloth and artificial leather, with higher-end models offering full artificial leather upholstery. The air conditioning is either manual or automatic, depending on the variant. The LX model includes an 8-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Related: Kia Sonet 1.0 T-GDi 7-DCT EX Driven
Standard features across the range include ABS with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution, Electronic Stability Control, Hill-start Assist Control, and dual front airbags. The top-of-the-line SX model even includes advanced driver assistance systems like Blind Spot Collision Avoidance, Lane Keep Assist, and Forward Collision Avoidance Assist.
The entry-level LX model is packed with features, including electric windows, a reverse camera, and Bluetooth connectivity. The EX model adds rear parking sensors, roof rails, and LED lights, while the EX Plus model boasts a larger 10.25-inch touchscreen, full artificial leather upholstery, and a wireless charging pad. The new SX model offers advanced driver assistance systems and Drive Mode Select, allowing drivers to tailor it to their needs.
![kia,sonet](https://www.leisurewheels.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/kia-4.jpg)
Familiar engine
The new Sonet comes with the dependable 1.5-litre MPI and turbocharged 1.0-litre GDi petrol engines. The 1.5-litre engine delivers 85 kW of power and 144 N.m of torque, while the 1.0-litre turbocharged engine offers a bit more punch with 88 kW of power and 172 N.m of torque. You can choose between a 5-speed manual transmission or a CVT for the 1.5-litre engine, or the 7-speed dual-clutch transmission for the 1.0-litre engine.
Available from 18 June 2024, with the EX Plus and SX models hitting the market in late July, pricing for the new Kia Sonet is as follows:
- Kia Sonet 1.5 LX Manual: R366 995
- Kia Sonet 1.5 LX CVT: R391 995
- Kia Sonet 1.5 EX CVT: R411 995
- Kia Sonet 1.0 T-GDi EX DCT: R436 995
- Kia Sonet 1.5 EX Plus CVT: R454 995
- Kia Sonet 1.5 SX CVT: R484 995
All Sonet models ship as standard with Kia’s Unlimited km/5-year warranty, inclusive of Roadside Assistance, and a pre-paid 4-year/60 000 km service plan
![kia,sonet](https://www.leisurewheels.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/kia-3.jpg)