Kia is recognized for providing a wealth of features relative to its pricing. The Kia Sonet maintains this reputation with the recent launch of the Sonet facelift for 2024 in India, and we had a chance to experience the GTX+ variant, equipped with a 1.5-liter CRDi VGT 6AT engine delivering 85 kW of power and 250 Nm of torque. In this initial review, I will share my insights on whether the 2024 Kia Sonet deserves your attention.

Kia Sonet 2024: Design

The design of the Kia Sonet 2024 is quite similar to its earlier models, but the brand has made some updates, including a refreshed grille, redesigned headlights, upgraded tail lamps, and a new rear spoiler. The iconic Kia aesthetic remains intact, making it easy to identify this as a Sonet. The new Signature Tiger Nose Grille enhances the sporty look and adds a touch of premium quality that may attract prospective buyers.

Kia Sonet 2024 is offered in 11 color options

We had the opportunity to test drive the 2024 Kia Sonet in the GTX+ trim and the Intense Red dual-tone color scheme featuring glossy paint, black matte-finished splash guards, and chrome details. The front end showcases a new chrome-black grille reminiscent of a tiger’s nose as per the manufacturer’s description. A 360-degree camera is integrated into the center of the grille, complemented by L-shaped LED DRLs and sporty crown jewel LED headlamps that elevate its premium appearance. The vehicle is also fitted with sleek LED fog lights.

The 2024 Kia Sonet is adorned with chrome detailing throughout its exterior. The side mirrors feature a dual-tone finish with integrated LED indicators. The door handles are body-colored and convey quality. At the rear, the vehicle displays the Kia logo alongside Star Map LED-connected tail lights and aerodynamically designed rear skid plates.

During my drive at approximately 80 km/h, I noticed that the cabin remains remarkably quiet, which is impressive for a vehicle in this price range — a rare advantage over its competitors.

Measuring 3995 mm in length, 1790 mm in width, and 1642 mm in height, the Sonet 2024 GTX+ is equipped with 16-inch Sporty Crystal Cut alloy wheels that enhance its premium appeal and align well with its cost.

Kia Sonet 2024: Performance

The Kia Sonet 2024 will come with a choice of several engine configurations. Available options include the Smartstream G1.2 5MT, Smartstream G1.0T-GDi 6iMT/GDi 7DCT, and the 1.5-liter CRDi VGT 6MT/6iMT and 6AT options.

The engine is well-tuned and performs adequately on highways

I drove the GTX+ variant for about 2-3 hours along both highways and busy urban streets, covering nearly 60 kilometers. It offered smooth driving with an adequate level of acceleration even in ECO mode. When switching to SPORTS mode, however, the performance boost was minimal, and there was a noticeable turbo lag.

This variant of the Kia Sonet 2024 is packed with features that might be unavailable in lower-end models. Highlights include leather seats with ventilation for the driver and front passenger, a voice-controlled electronic sunroof, an integrated air purifier, Qi wireless charging for compatible devices, a 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen with wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support, a 10.25-inch colorful LCD MID dashboard display, and a 7-speaker sound system by Bose.

Cabin noise is minimal, even in bustling environments

The vehicle includes fast USB Type-C charging ports at both the front and rear, which is beneficial, although connecting for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto still requires a USB Type-A cable—a somewhat outdated feature for a 2024 model.

The Kia Sonet is equipped with disc brakes on all four wheels and boasts a parking assist system with a 360-degree camera that provides a comprehensive view of the vehicle’s surroundings, making it advantageous for reversing and maneuvering out of narrow spaces.

Additionally, it comes with ADAS Level 1 technology and offers a total of 10 safety features, including Forward Collision Warning, Lane Keep Assist, High Beam Assist, and Driver Attention Warning, which are especially beneficial for new drivers and during long-distance trips.

Kia Sonet 2024: Other Notable Features

Standard in the Kia Sonet 2024 are 6 airbags, ABS with EBD, and Brake Assist. These systems can be customized to a degree and monitored via the Kia app for an enhanced driving experience.

Kia Sonet 2024: Should You Buy it?

The Kia Sonet 2024 represents a solid update for a vehicle that has already gained consumer approval. This refresh incorporates numerous new features such as ADAS Level 1, a refreshed aesthetic, and voice-command capabilities. Priced from Rs. 7.99 lakh ex-showroom, these features are unique to the higher-end variants of the Kia Sonet 2024, which places it within the sub-Rs. 15 lakh segment. It offers a comfortable driving experience on city streets and is suitable for daily commuting with all its recent upgrades. For those exploring other options, the Hyundai Venue is worth considering, despite its higher starting price, as it provides a strong set of features in its base variant. The Renault Kiger is another alternative boasting similar features at an affordable price.