Kia will update its Sonet compact SUV for 2022 by giving it new features and introducing more equipment in the lower variants. The Sonet is already one of the best-equipped compact SUVs in the market, and the updates will only strengthen its position.
- Kia adds features like ESC and hill assist control on the HTK+ variant
- HTX variant gets digital instrument cluster
2022 Kia Sonet: gets safety overhaul
In terms of safety, the Sonet will now get side airbags and tyre-pressure monitoring system as standard across the range. It will also get curtain airbags on the HTX+ variant, which was earlier available only on the top-end GTX+ variant. These additions could be Kia’s attempt to get a step closer to the recent draft notification mandating six airbags from October 1, 2022.
Moreover, the HTX variant will also come with digital instrument cluster. For the iMT-equipped HTK+ variant, Kia will introduce Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Vehicle Stability Management (VSM) and Hill Assist Control (HAC).
The 2022 Sonet is said to get a new ‘Sonet’ badging, and new Sparkling Silver and Imperial Blue paint shade options as updates to the exterior.
2022 Kia Sonet: powertrain options
It is unlikely that Kia will make changes to the car’s powertrain options. The Sonet comes with three engines – an 83hp, 1.2-litre petrol engine; 120hp, 1.0-litre turbo petrol engine; and a 115hp, 1.5-litre diesel. It comes with five gearbox options, including a 5-speed manual, 6-speed manual, 6-speed iMT, 6-speed automatic and a 7-speed dual-clutch unit depending on what engine you choose. Kia could pair the iMT with the diesel engine like the Seltos, which is currently the only car in India with a diesel iMT option.
Kia Sonet: rivals
Kia Sonet rivals other compact SUVs like the Tata Nexon, Mahindra XUV300, Hyundai Venue, Toyota Urban Cruiser and the Maruti Suzuki Vitara Brezza. Prices of the current Sonet start at Rs 6.79 lakh, but an increase is expected with the updates.
It must be noted that the sub-4-metre SUV segment was created to deliver value-for-money products, thanks to the tax break. However, due to an increased focus on safety and features, prices of cars like the Kia Sonet are increasing steadily, and are now into the territory once occupied by midsize SUVs.
What do you think of Kia offering more safety equipment at lower variants? Let us know in the comments
Also see:
Kia Sonet: Which variant to buy?