Kia’s Evergreen Compact SUV Gets a Bold Makeover with Award-Winning ‘Opposites United’ Design Philosophy
Revised Range Offers Enhanced Features and Greater Value
June 14, 2024 – Kia South Africa proudly introduces the new Sonet to the South African market, building on a range that has exceeded all expectations since its debut in 2021. With a significantly updated exterior design, a refined interior, and a repositioned range, the new Sonet continues to stand out in the highly competitive A-SUV segment. Renowned for its superior build quality and reliability, Kia’s compact SUV now offers consumers even more value.
“With its sporty, eye-catching design, high-quality features, and fun-to-drive dynamics, the Sonet has made Kia the preferred brand for trendy urbanites with big ambitions,” says Gary Scott, CEO of Kia South Africa. “Known for its engineering excellence, quality finishes, and big-car attitude, the Sonet remains one of the most desirable small SUVs on the market. With this update, we’re confident it will continue to grow in popularity.”
Elevating Your SUV Experience
Inspired by Kia’s award-winning ‘Opposites United’ design philosophy, the new Sonet boasts a bold and futuristic exterior. The updated design enhances its sporty look, making it even more stylish and modern. The new Sonet features a new light signature, an updated front bumper, an iteration of Kia’s signature ‘tiger nose’ grille, and a revised fender and bonnet, creating a dramatic and confident stance. The rear design is equally striking, with redesigned taillights and a new rear light signature that complements the updated tailgate and bumper.
Despite these updates, the Sonet retains its dimensions, offering a height of 1,610 mm, length of 4,110 mm, and width of 1,790 mm. Its long wheelbase (2,500 mm) and short rear overhang provide ample cabin and boot space, making it one of the roomiest in its class. The Sonet’s 385-litre boot capacity is among the largest in the segment. Ride comfort is ensured through a combination of MacPherson struts at the front and a coupled torsion beam axle at the rear.
Two 16-inch wheel designs are available, along with a variety of colour options, including the new Pewter Olive metallic. The Sonet’s interior retains its high-quality and high-technology layout, with 8-inch and 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment options. Higher-specification models feature artificial leather upholstery.
Performance and Powertrains
The new Kia Sonet offers two familiar and reliable engine options: a 1.5-litre MPI and a 1.0-litre T-GDi. The 1.5 MPI engine produces 85 kW of power and 144 Nm of torque, while the 1.0 T-GDi engine delivers 88 kW of power and 172 Nm of torque. Transmission options include a 5-speed manual, CVT, and a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT).
Enhanced Range for Maximum Choice
Kia has repositioned the Sonet range to offer maximum choice without compromising on standard features or value for money. The Sonet is manufactured to the highest quality standards at Kia’s state-of-the-art production facility in Anantapur, India. The SUV boasts a robust structure with over two-thirds of the body made from high-strength steel and advanced high-strength steel.
Safety features include ABS with EBD, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Hill-start Assist Control (HAC), ISOFIX child seat anchors, and dual front airbags as standard. The Sonet’s LX models come with body-coloured bumpers, electrically adjustable side mirrors, and an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with reverse camera and Bluetooth connectivity.
The EX models add rear parking sensors, rear fog lamps, roof rails, and LED lighting updates. Inside, the EX models feature a storage box with an integrated armrest and leather-clad steering wheel and gear shifter. The EX Plus models upgrade to a 10.25-inch infotainment screen and include full artificial leather upholstery and a wireless charging pad. The new SX grade includes Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) such as Blind Spot Collision Avoidance Assist, Lane Keep Assist (LKA), Lane Follow Assist (LFA), and Forward Collision Avoidance Assist (FCA).
Big Car Value
The Kia Sonet has consistently resonated with South African consumers who aspire to live bigger, more adventurous, and rewarding lives. With its superior quality, extensive features, and excellent driving experience, the Sonet continues to be a top choice in the compact SUV segment.
The new Kia Sonet LX and EX models will be available from June 18, 2024, with EX Plus and SX derivatives arriving in late July 2024. The recommended retail pricing for the range is as follows:
- Kia Sonet 1.5 LX Manual: R 366,995
- Kia Sonet 1.5 LX CVT: R 391,995
- Kia Sonet 1.5 EX CVT: R 411,995
- Kia Sonet 1.0 T-GDi EX DCT: R 436,995
- Kia Sonet 1.5 EX Plus CVT: R 454,995
- Kia Sonet 1.5 SX CVT: R 484,995
All Sonet models come with Kia’s industry-leading Unlimited Kilometre/5-year warranty, inclusive of Roadside Assistance, and a 4-year/60,000 km service plan. Additional plan extension options are available through Kia Financial Services.
