What makes the Kia Sonet X-Line different from the other variants of the compact SUV?

Well, the new model features a unique Xclusive Matte Graphite Exterior boosting the overall premium quotient of the car. The interior has Xclusive Splendid Sage Dual Tone treatment enhancing the overall cabin and driving experience. Kia has also included Xclusive Crystal Cut Alloys with Black High Gloss for a sportier look.

Other features of the Kia Sonet X-Line include

• Kia Signature Tiger nose grill – Black High Gloss
• Xclusive Diamond knurling pattern - Piano Black
• Xclusive Turbo Shaped Masculine piano black Front skid plates with Dark Hyper Metal Accents
• Xclusive Dark chrome Fog lamp garnish
• Xclusive Piano Black Outside mirror LED turn signal
• Side door Dark Hyper Metal garnish
• Silver brake callipers
• Shark Fin Antenna – Matte graphite
• X-Line Emblem
• Xclusive Piano Black Rear Skid Plate with Dark Hyper Metal Accents
• Xclusive Piano Black Dual Muffler Design
• Leatherette Sports Seats with Orange Stitching & X-Line logo
• Leatherette wrapped D-cut steering wheel with Orange Stitching & Sonet logo
• Xclusive Premium Black headliner

The Kia Sonet X-Line is offered exclusively in 1.0 T-GDi petrol engine with 7DCT configuration and 1.5-litre CRDi diesel engine with 6AT configuration. The petrol model costs Rs 13.39 lakh whereas the diesel variant retails at Rs 13.99 lakh (ex-showroom).

2022 Kia Seltos

The refreshed Kia Seltos has been updated with 13 new enhancements. The company has introduced the first-in-India Intelligent Manual Transmission (iMT) technology with the 1.5 Diesel engine on the Kia Seltos HTK+ variant. The vehicle also comes in a new variant HTX AT powered by Diesel 1.5 powertrain.

Kia India also has extended paddle shifters along with multi-drive and traction modes for all automatic variants of the refreshed Kia Seltos for a sportier and more responsive driving experience. Multiple other safety features such as Side Airbag, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Vehicle Stability Management (VSM), Brake Assist (BA), Hill Assist Control (HAC), Highline Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (Highline TPMS) and All-Wheel Disc brakes are also offered as standard on the refreshed Kia Seltos.

Furthermore, The HTX+ variant of the vehicle also boasts curtain airbags. Further, design changes have been made in the Seltos logo design on the D-cut steering wheel, SUS scuff plate and tailgate to further enhance its appeal. In the case of Seltos X Line, it will now be offered with the X Line Logo on Indigo Pera Seats.

2022 Kia Sonet

The refreshed Kia Sonet has been updated with 9 new enhancements. It will now be equipped with Side Airbag and Highline Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (Highline TPMS) as standard across variants to further enhance safety. The company will also offer key safety features like Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Vehicle Stability Management (VSM), Brake Assist (BA), Hill Assist Control (HAC)as standard on the iMT trims.

Further, curtain airbags will now be offered from HTX+ variant onwards. Customers of the newly launched Kia Sonet will get the Advanced 10.67 cm (4.2”) Colour Instrument Cluster from the HTX variant itself so that they can get detailed car information and feel always in charge. The Semi Leatherette seat will now be offered from the HTE variant itself. Similar to the refreshed Seltos, the newly launched refreshed Sonet will also get design changes in the Sonet logo on the D-cut steering wheel and tailgate.

Kia India has launched the refreshed Seltos and Sonet at a starting price of INR 10.19 Lakh (ex-showroom, pan-India) and INR 7.15 Lakh (ex-showroom, pan-India), respectively.

The exclusive tiger-nose grille on the Kia Sonet first anniversary edition features hot-stamped tangerine accents lending an undaunted outlook to the compact SUV. In addition to this, the new Sonet also features Aurochs side skid plates to offer a bolder and butch appeal to the vehicle along with side door garnish and centre wheel caps in tangerine accent and anniversary edition emblem.

The Kia Sonet first anniversary edition is available in four powertrains options - 1.0 T-GDi petrol engine with Smartstream 6iMT & 7DCT and 1.5-litre CRDi diesel engine with 6MT (in WGT configuration) & 6AT (in VGT configuration). The first anniversary edition Sonet is offered in four exterior colours - Aurora Black pearl, Glacier white pearl, Steel silver & Gravity grey. The new model is available at a starting price of INR 10,79,000 (ex-showroom, pan India).

Mr. Tae-Jin Park, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Kia India said, "The Sonet has been one of our breakthrough products that have contributed to Kia's success in India. With sales of more than one lakh units in less than a year, the Sonet has already established itself as one of India's highest-selling compact SUVs. To celebrate this adoration, we are excited to launch the anniversary edition of the Sonet. Carved out of sheer design excellence, the Anniversary edition Sonet is based on the concept of Aurochs and boasts a muscular look offering a bolder and premium driving experience to our young-at-heart customers."

The Sonet is also quickly becoming popular among the aftermarket modifying community, with accessories widely available. Today we came across this Kia Sonet that has a 360-degree camera system installed. The video has been uploaded by CAR SONICS CAR ACCESSORIES HYDERABAD on YouTube.

The doors of the Kia Sonet in the video has been stripped out to fit in the new speakers from Pioneer and two-layer damping to improve the NVH levels. An amplifier and a subwoofer have been fitted in the boot as well. Other changes to the interior include new faux leather seat covers and floor mats while the exteriors get a set of rain visors, door cladding and, and chrome garnish on the lower portion of the windows.

Also Read : Kia Sonet Over 2 Times More Popular Than Maruti Brezza

The main highlight of this Kia Sonet is the new aftermarket 360-degree camera. For the setup, cameras have been placed on the front grille, ORVM, and rear number plate holder. The system works seamlessly with the stock infotainment system by modifying the screen in a way to show the feed from the 360-degree camera.

Prices for the Kia Sonet range between Rs 6.79 lakh – Rs 13.35 lakh, ex-showroom. The subcompact SUV is offered with three engine options - two petrols and a diesel. There's a 1-litre turbo-petrol unit making 120 PS/172 Nm of peak figures, a 1.2-liter NA petrol engine with 83hp and 113Nm of peak torque, while the oil-burner is a 1.5-litre unit that comes in two states of tune, 100PS/240 Nm or 115 PS/250 Nm. Transmission choices include a 6-speed manual, while the automatic variants of the Sonet now come with paddle shifters for the 7-speed DCT or a 6-speed torque convertor.

Stay tuned to IndianAutosBlog.com for more interesting updates and other four-wheeler news.

The cumulative sales volume of Hyundai and Kia have surpassed the monthly sales figure of Maruti Suzuki for the first time ever. The Korean duo recorded total sales of 36,051 units in May 2021. Meanwhile, Maruti Suzuki registered total sales of 32,903 in May 2021. Maruti Suzuki has dominated the Indian car market for years, whereas Hyundai has mostly been playing catch up. With the introduction of Kia in the Indian market, it finally seems to be paying dividends for the Hyundai group.

Also Read : Kia Sonet Over 2 Times More Popular Than Maruti Brezza

In comparison, in May last year, Hyundai and Kia together posted a cumulative sales figure of 8,544 units, while Maruti Suzuki registered 13,702 units, considering that sales in May 2020 were far severely affected by the pandemic. Both, the Hyundai Group and Maruti Suzuki, thus recorded massive year-on-year growth of 322% and 140% respectively. Meanwhile, in April 2021, Hyundai and Kia together recorded cumulative sales of 65,113 units while Maruti Suzuki sold 1,35879 units, thus recording a massive month-on-month decline of 45% and 76% respectively.

The Hyundai Group's strong performance have to be credited to the Hyundai Creta, Hyundai Venue, Kia Seltos and the Kia Sonet, all of which together sold 23,221 units, which is nearly two-thirds of the Korean duo's entire sales in May 2021. In fact, the Hyundai Creta was the best selling car in May 2021, toppling the Maruti Suzuki Swift from the top position after several months. While Maruti usually occupies all top 5 positions in the top-10 best-selling cars' list, in May 2021, they only had two models in the top-5 list.

This naturally also had an impact on the market share of both brands. Hyundai and Kia's combined market share rose by 12% to 34.94% compared to April 2021, while Maruti's market share dropped by 16% to 31.89%. However, here it has to be pointed out that Maruti Suzuki had its manufacturing plants shut down for a long time in May 2021, which is the primary reason for its poor sales. The company had diverted oxygen used in manufacturing processes to medical institutions for relief in the Covid-19 crisis.

Stay tuned to IndianAutosBlog.com for more Hyundai and Maruti Suzuki updates and other four-wheeler news.

While auto sales in May 2021 were largely dismal, thanks to the second wave of Covid-19 and resulting lockdowns, it was the Kia Sonet that emerged as the best-selling sub-compact SUV for May 2021. Kia sold 6,627 units of the Sonet in May 2021, with the Tata Nexon coming in second position with 6,439 units sold. Meanwhile, the Hyundai Venue and the Maruti Vitara Brezza occupied third and fourth positions with 4,840 and 2,648 units sold respectively in May 2021.

Also Read : 2021 Kia Sonet Walkaround Video - New Features Detailed

Now this a drastic change from April 2021, where the Hyundai Venue and the Maruti Vitara Brezza were two best selling sub-compact SUVs,. The former sold 11,245 units, while the latter sold 11,220 units. Of course, the sales numbers for April 2021 are much higher as it was a relatively normal month as compared to lockdown-restricted May 2021. That said, this is the first time that the Kia Sonet has come out as the best selling sub-compact SUV this year, breaking the monopoly of the Brezza and the Venue.

One of the reasons for the Sonet's popularity is that it is available with as many as three engines and four gearbox options, spread across a wide price range. There's a 83hp/114Nm 1.2L, four-cylinder, naturally aspirated petrol engine; a 120hp/172Nm 1.0L three-cylinder turbo-petrol engine and a 100hp/240Nm 1.5L, four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine. Gearbox options include a 5-speed and 6-speed manual along with a 6-speed iMT and a 7-speed DCT gearbox. Apart from being offered with a wide range of powertrain options, in typical Kia fashion, the Sonet is also very generously equipped in terms of features.

Last month, the Sonet only had the Nexon as its real competitor, as the Venue and the Brezza sold far lesser units. In fact, the Kia Sonet sold more than double the units of the Vitara Brezza, a car that was the best-seller in the segment in February and March 2021. That's how intense the competition is in this segment and that's how quickly the tables can turn. Apart from these top four best-selling sub-compact SUVs, the duo of the Renault Kiger and the Nissan Magnite also posted decent sales of 1,326 and 1,200 units respectively.

Stay tuned to IndianAutosBlog.com for more interesting updates and other four-wheeler news.

Kia Digi-Connect is a one-of-a-kind customised application that will enable customers to connect with their nearest Kia India dealerships and get complete assistance using a video conference offering them a showroom-like experience. The integrated solution application has been developed keeping in mind the current pandemic situation. It will not only ensure the safety of customers but also expedite and improve their buying process.

Also Read: 2021 Kia Sonet Walkaround Video - New Features Detailed

Speaking about the launch of the application, Mr Tae-Jin Park, Executive Director and Chief Sales & Business Strategy Officer, Kia India, said:

The Kia Digi-Connect initiative signifies Kia India’s bold and innovative approach towards offering a matchless premium customer experience, aligned with our new brand purpose - ‘Movement that inspires’. With this industry-first initiative, we have taken a step forward in transforming the purchase journey of our customers to a seamless, digital one. Technology-led digital transformation has been the primary approach for Kia India right at the outset and we are committed to spearheading the digital revolution in the Indian automotive industry going forward. We are confident that such digital innovations will offer great customer delight at every step of their car buying journey and make Kia India an aspirational and lovable brand in the country.

The Kia Digi-Connect app is a completely safe and secure platform that is integrated with Kia India’s Central Lead Management System. To experience the digital buying solution, customers can go to the company’s official website and opt for video consultation through Kia Digi-Connect.

The Kia Digi-Connect solution will also provide customers several additional options of 360-degree virtual experience through video call, screen and video sharing along with sharing of brochures, price list, etc., through the digital medium. The app also allows customers to include multiple family members and friends on the same call from different geographic locations to collectively understand and discuss with dealership representatives.

Introducing the Kia Digi-Connect, Mr Hardeep Singh Brar, Vice President and Head of Marketing & Sales, Kia India, said:

We are committed to the safety of our consumers and dealer partners, especially in these difficult times of COVID-19, and the Kia Digi-Connect solution is designed to ensure just that. We believe this initiative will be a game-changer in the purchase journey of the customers as it offers a safe platform where the buyers can access all the information about Kia products and services from the comfort of their homes, as they would when visiting the showroom. This further reiterates our commitment to offering a differentiated Kia ownership experience to our patrons in the country.

Stay tuned to IndianAutosBlog.com for more Kia updates and other four-wheeler news.

Here's a look at exactly what's new with the 2021 update :

Variant Reshuffle

As mentioned before, a couple of variants have been discontinued while two more have been brought in. Previously available HTK+ petrol-DCT and diesel-automatic variants have been axed. Instead, Kia have introduced new HTX petrol-DCT and HTX diesel-automatic variants to the lineup. This means you now have to shell out an additional INR 50,000 to INR 70,000 to get your hands on an entry-level Sonet automatic.

Paddle Shifters

One of the biggest updates to the Sonet has been the addition of paddle shifters for all automatic variants of the SUV. That means both the 1.0L turbo-petrol with the 7-speed DCT and the 1.5L diesel with the 6-speed torque converter automatic gearbox are now offered with paddle shifters across all their trims -  HTX 7DCT, GTX+ 7DCT, HTX AT, GTX+ AT.  This should greatly increase the appeal of the Sonet, particularly for people seeking more engagement with the driving experience of the sub-compact SUV.

Also Read : First Updated Kia Sonet With Aftermarket Alloys - This is IT!

New Features

Apart from the addition of paddle shifters, Kia have also introduced two more features across the lineup. The first is rear door sunshade curtains that have been added to the HTX, HTX+, GTX+ trims. The other is a new opening/closing function of the sunroof via voice commands, introduced in the HTX+, GTX+ trims. Both of these features are segment-first features and although small additions, they are still valuable ones indeed.

More Features Standard Across The Range

Apart from the aforementioned new features, Kia has made several features from top-spec trims standard across some lower-spec trims. That includes safety features such as Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Vehicle Stability Management (VSM), Brake Assist (BA), Hill Assist Control (HAC). These features were previously reserved for the GTX+ trim but have now been made available on the HTX trims as well. Other features such as multiple drive modes and traction modes, smart Key with push button start/stop, remote Engine start, electric sunroof, chrome door handles and 16-inch alloy wheels have also been made standard across the mid-spec trims.

Stay tuned to IndianAutosBlog.com for more Kia updates and other four-wheeler news.

The only giveaway on the exterior that this is the 2021 model is the new Kia logo on the hood, that being the only exterior update on the new Sonet. This also seems to be a base-spec model, as is evident from the headlights that miss out on the LED DRLs. With its 2021 update, Kia is now offering alloy wheels on the Sonet from the mid-spec HTX trim. This being one of the lower-spec trims, as stock, it comes with steel wheels with wheel caps.

Also Read: Top 5 Revisions Made To 2021 Kia Sonet

However, it has been fitted with blacked-out aftermarket 16-inch R.P.M wheels with silver highlights and that really uplifts the look of the vehicle. There are no other modifications on the exterior of this Kia Sonet, but the alloy wheels alone give it much more upmarket and sporty look. Speaking of its 2021 updates, With the addition of new features across the range, there has been an inevitable increase in the prices of the Sonet. Barring the entry-level 1.2L petrol variant, prices of all other variants of the Sonet have gone up by at least INR 10,000. The 1.0L turbo-petrol HTK+ iMT and the 1.5L diesel HTX MT variants saw the maximum price hike of INR 30,000.

One of the biggest updates to the Sonet has been the addition of paddle shifters for all automatic variants of the SUV. That means both the 1.0L turbo-petrol with the 7-speed DCT and the 1.5L diesel with the 6-speed torque converter automatic gearbox are now offered with paddle shifters across all their trims -  HTX 7DCT, GTX+ 7DCT, HTX AT, GTX+ AT. Speaking of which, the HTX petrol-DCT and HTX diesel-AT are new variants in the lineup, replacing the now-discontinued HTK+ petrol-DCT and diesel-AT variants. This means you now have to shell out an additional INR 50,000 to INR 70,000 to get your hands on an entry-level Sonet automatic.

Kia has also made several features from top-spec trims standard across some lower-spec trims of the Sonet. That includes safety features such as Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Vehicle Stability Management (VSM), Brake Assist (BA), Hill Assist Control (HAC). These features were previously reserved for the GTX+ trim but have now been made available on the HTX trims as well. Other features such as multiple drive modes and traction modes, smart Key with push button start/stop, remote Engine start, electric sunroof, chrome door handles and 16-inch alloy wheels have also been made standard across the mid-spec trims.

Stay tuned to IndianAutosBlog.com for more Kia updates and other four-wheeler news.

Firstly, both 5- and 7-seater models of Kia Sonet offered in the Indonesian market are above 4-meters in length. Basically, the two versions are 4,120 mm long, which is 125 mm longer than the India-spec 5-seater Sonet. However, the width, height and wheelbase remain the same at 1,790 mm, 1,642 mm and 2,500 mm, respectively.

Like the outside, the interior design of the car remains similar to that of the 5-seater model, but there are two major highlights here. Firstly, the 7-seater version gets a 50:50 split for the third-row seat, which can be completely folded to create a larger boot space of 392-litres. Secondly, the second-row seats come with one-touch tumble fold and sliding functions by which a passenger can effortlessly access the third row.

Other than that, the feature list of the car remains unchanged. The Kia Sonet 7-seater gets a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment unit with UVO connected car technology, traction control, wireless charging pad, drive modes, ventilated front seats, tyre pressure monitoring system, Bose sound system, rear AC vents and so on. For the third-row passengers, the SUV gets roof-mounted AC vents. The Indonesia-spec Kia Sonet 7-seater is sold in four trim levels, namely- Standard, Smart, Dynamic and Premiere.

The Kia Sonet 7-seater model derives power from a 1.5-litre Smartstream petrol engine which develops 113bhp of maximum power and 144Nm of peak torque. The motor comes paired with a 6-speed MT or an Intelligent Variable Transmission (iVT). Right now, the carmaker has no plans to introduce the 7-seater Sonet in India. It must be noted here that the Kia Sonet is one of the top-selling sub-4-meter SUVs in the country. The sub-compact model is known for its aggressive looks, many powertrain choices and a feature-loaded cabin. It rivals the likes of Nissan Magnite, Maruti Vitara Brezza, Hyundai Venue, Ford EcoSport and Mahindra XUV300.

The company’s flagship car Carnival recorded a total sale of 301 units in April 2021. Kia Seltos is the highest contributor by selling 1,80,000 units out of 2,25,000 units sold by the carmaker. On the other hand, Kia Sonet retailed more than 70,000 in just eight months of its launch. Many of you may know that Kia has recently launched the updated Seltos and Sonet in our market. The new model of Seltos has been introduced at a starting price of INR 9.95 lakh* for the base trim, while the prices go all the way up to INR 17.65 lakh* for the top-spec model. Meanwhile, the 2021 Kia Sonet has been priced between INR 9.95 lakh to INR 17.65 lakh*.

Talking about the updates, both SUVs now get new Kia badges, additional features and some new variants. The Kia Seltos now gets a new transmission option- iMT, which is offered only with the 1.5-litre NA petrol unit. The SUV continues to derive power from a 1.5-litre NA petrol, 1.5-litre diesel and 1.4-litre turbo diesel engines. On the other hand, Kia Sonet gets propelled by a 1.2-litre NA petrol, 1.0-litre turbocharged petrol and 1.5-litre diesel engines. In the Indian market, Kia Seltos competes with the likes of Nissan Kicks and Hyundai Creta. It will even take on the upcoming Skoda Kushaq, while the Kia Sonet rivals against the likes of Maruti Vitara Brezza, Hyundai Venue, Nissan Magnite, Ford EcoSport, Mahindra XUV300 and Renault Kiger.

*all prices are ex-showroom, Delhi

Also Read: Too Early To Rule Out Kia Seltos Gravity Edition For India?

The Kia Sonet you see here is the top-spec GT Line variant of the car. Many of you may know that the Sonet GT Line gets a different front grille and bumper as compared to Tech line trims. Meanwhile, the mod job on this vehicle has been done by Kirthi Car, who is a Bengaluru-based customizer. This satin black wrap has completely changed the look of the SUV. It now looks bolder and sportier than the regular version. The customiser has gone for an all-black treatment with full chrome delete.

Moreover, the silver portion on the lower part of the bumper also features the same black colour treatment. On the side, the stock wheels have been replaced by aftermarket piano black units. Other than this, no customization has been made on the SUV. A person should know that changing the original paint of the car is illegal but a wrap is perhaps a nice way to give the car a new appearance without touching the paint.

Also Read: Top 5 Revisions Made To 2021 Kia Sonet

Speaking of the Kia Sonet, well, it has been a runaway success. In fact, it won't be wrong to say that this subcompact SUV has given the likes of Maruti Vitara Brezza and Hyundai Venue a run for their money. It comes loaded with features like a 10.25 touchscreen infotainment unit with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, ventilated seats, connected car techs, an electric sunroof, cruise control, automatic AC, automatic climate control and so on. It derives power from a 1.2-litre NA petrol engine, 1.5-litre turbo diesel mill and a 1.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine, depending on what variant you pick. It gets retailed at a starting price of Rs 6.79 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi).

Stay tuned to IndianAutosBlog.com for more Kia updates and other four-wheeler news.

Well, here we will be comparing the performance of two of the most popular offerings in this segment - Maruti Suzuki Vitara Brezza vs Kia Sonet - based on how quick they accelerate from nought to 100kph. For this, we have the 1.5L petrol-manual variant of the Vitara Brezza and the 1.0L turbo-petrol iMT variant of the Sonet. For the performance enthusiasts, Kia also offers a 6-speed manual or a 7-speed DCT gearbox with the Sonet turbo-petrol, but the iMT variant could just be the sweetest pick of the lot.

Also Read : Maruti Suzuki Vitara Brezza vs Hyundai Venue - Acceleration Comparison

Maruti Suzuki Vitara Brezza vs Kia Sonet - Specification Comparison

Both the sub-compact SUVs have a very different engine configuration. While the Vitara Brezza adopts the old-school formula of a naturally aspirated 4-cylinder petrol engine, the Sonet uses a modern downsized 1.0L turbocharged 3-cylinder petrol engine. And naturally, the Sonet has the advantage, both in terms of power and torque. Also, the Brezza gets a 5-speed manual gearbox while the Sonet comes with an intelligent and unique 6-speed iMT gearbox.

Maruti Suzuki Vitara Brezza vs Kia Sonet - Acceleration Comparison

While the Sonet clearly had the advantage on paper, their real-world performance actually had a surprise in store for us. In spite of the Sonet having more power and torque than the Brezza, it was the latter that was quicker of the two in both the runs. The gap in the first run is only marginal but in the second run, the Brezza manages an even better time and ekes out a considerable gap over the Sonet. The Brezza managed a sub-12 second time whereas the Soent was only good for 12.80 seconds. This could solely be down to the gearbox, depending on how the iMT gearbox is tuned and the ratios are spread.

We recently also conducted an acceleration comparison of the Hyundai Venue vs Maruti Suzuki Brezza and we got very similar results in that test as well. The performance of both the SUVs were almost identical but it is the Brezza that has the best 0-100 kph time of all the three sub-compact SUVs in their respective best runs. A naturally aspirated petrol manual powertrain anyway isn't going to linger around for long. If performance is your priority, perhaps the Vitara Brezza is the best of the lot for you.

Stay tuned to IndianAutosBlog.com for more such acceleration tests and other four-wheeler news.

Price

With the addition of new features across the range, there has been an inevitable increase in the prices of the Sonet. Barring the entry-level 1.2L petrol variant, prices of all other variants of the Soent have gone up by at least INR 10,000. The 1.0L turbo-petrol HTK+ iMT and the 1.5L diesel HTX MT variants see the maximum price hike of INR 30,000. While the entry price of the Sonet remains the same, the price at the top-end has gone up by INR 16,000.

Variant Reshuffle

As mentioned before, a couple of variants have been discontinued while two more have been brought in. As you can see from the table above, the HTK+ petrol-DCT and diesel-automatic variants have been axed. Instead, Kia have introduced new HTX petrol-DCT and HTX diesel-automatic variants to the lineup. This means you now have to shell out an additional Rs 50,000 to Rs 70,000 to get your hands on an entry-level Sonet automatic.

Also Read : Kia Seltos Borrows iMT Option From Younger Sibling Sonet

Paddle Shifters

One of the biggest updates to the Sonet has been the addition of paddle shifters for all automatic variants of the SUV. That means both the 1.0L turbo-petrol with the 7-speed DCT and the 1.5L diesel with the 6-speed torque converter automatic gearbox are now offered with paddle shifters across all their trims -  HTX 7DCT, GTX+ 7DCT, HTX AT, GTX+ AT.  This should greatly increase the appeal of the Sonet, particularly for people seeking more engagement with the driving experience of the sub-compact SUV.

New Features

Apart from the addition of paddle shifters, Kia have also introduced two more features across the lineup. The first is rear door sunshade curtains that have been added to the HTX, HTX+, GTX+ trims. The other is a new opening/closing function of the sunroof via voice commands, introduced in the HTX+, GTX+ trims. Both of these features are segment-first features and although small additions, they are still valuable ones indeed.

More Features Standard Across The Range

Apart from the aforementioned new features, Kia has made several features from top-spec trims standard across some lower-spec trims. That includes safety features such as Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Vehicle Stability Management (VSM), Brake Assist (BA), Hill Assist Control (HAC). These features were previously reserved for the GTX+ trim but have now been made available on the HTX trims as well. Other features such as multiple drive modes and traction modes, smart Key with push button start/stop, remote Engine start, electric sunroof, chrome door handles and 16-inch alloy wheels have also been made standard across the mid-spec trims. Here's a summary of the same.

Stay tuned to IndianAutosBlog.com for more Kia updates and other four-wheeler news.

Commenting on the launch of MY2021 Kia Sonet and Seltos, Mr. Kookhyun Shim, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Kia India said-

The refreshed editions of Seltos and Sonet mark the first steps towards our transformation in India and reiterate our new brand purpose of inspiring consumers through products, services and their experiences with the brand. The evolving needs of the customers are at the heart of our product strategy. Since launch, the Seltos and Sonet have been creating benchmarks in their respective segments, and with the additional variants, safety and convenience features, we are taking the game a notch higher. I am confident that Indian customers will keep showering their love on our products, and with these refreshed versions, we are ready to win India’s heart once again.

In fact, the MY2021 Kia Seltos has received 17 new updates, including a Smart Pure Air Purifier with ‘Virus and Bacteria’ Protection. Yet another addition is that of additional voice commands for UVO to open and close the sunroof and control the driver window. In order to enhance the safety quotient, Kia India now offers Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Vehicle Stability Management (VSM), Brake Assist (BA), Hill Assist Control (HAC) features to lower variants. There's even new seat material and colour options to choose from.

The refreshed Kia Sonet, on the other hand, gets 10 new features, like the Rear Door Sunshade Curtains, and Voice command for Sunroof Open & Close. Akin to the Seltos, the Sonet gets Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Vehicle Stability Management (VSM), Brake Assist (BA), Hill Assist Control (HAC) even on the lower variants.

MY2021 Kia Seltos and Sonet Prices

April 27, 2021 - In January earlier this year, Kia globally unveiled their new corporate logo and brand slogan - 'Movement that inspires'. The Korean carmaker has now brought its new identity to India, which will soon be rolled out as an update on the Seltos compact SUV and the Sonet sub-compact SUV. Kia has revealed that the updated Seltos and Sonet will be launched in India in the first week of May 2021. Along with the new brand logo, both SUVs will see a shuffle in their variant lineup along with the introduction of new features across the lineup. The company has officially changed its name from Kia Motors India to Kia India as a part of its brand rejig.

Kia Seltos

The Kia Seltos lineup will see a slight reshuffle as the carmaker has already discontinued the mid-spec HTX+ 1.5L diesel automatic variant of the SUV. Instead, Kia will be introducing two new variants, namely the iMT HTK+ and the GTX(O) MT. Yes, the Seltos will see the addition of a new gearbox option with the new iMT gearbox being offered with the 1.5L NA petrol engine in the HTK+ trim. The 1.4L turbo-petrol engine, which was so far offered only with a 7-speed DCT gearbox, will also be offered with a manual gearbox in a new GTX(O) trim. This will then be the new top-end variant of the Seltos.

Apart from a shuffle in the variant lineup, the Seltos will see the addition of important features across the range. Unlike its sibling - the Hyundai Creta - no variants of the Seltos were offered with paddle shifters till now. With this update, automatic variants of the Seltos will be offered with paddle shifters. Kia will also be offering a new voice command feature with 'Hello Kia' that will enable you to perform several functions like opening/closing the sunroof and windows, operate the climate control and much more. Several features like ESC, hill-start assist control, VSC, brake assist, remote engine start, etc will also be introduced in the mid-spec variants.

Also Read : Kia Seltos 7-Seater - Hyundai Alcazar Sibling - Rendered

Kia Sonet

In similar fashion, Kia also discontinued the Sonet HTK+ diesel-automatic and the 1.0 turbo-petrol DCT automatic. The Kia Sonet HTK+ trim was the only trim that was available with all the engine-gearbox options that's offered with the sub-compact SUV. Instead, the Sonet HTX trim will see the addition of the diesel-automatic and the 1.0 turbo-petrol DCT variants. Positioned above the HTK+ trim, the HTX trim was previously offered only with the 1.0L turbo-petrol iMT and 1.5L diesel MT variants. Just like the Seltos, automatic variants of the Sonet will also benefit from the addition of paddle shifters.

Other feature additions on the Sonet HTX trim include 16-inch alloy wheels that replace the steel wheels with wheel covers. It also benefits from new curtains for the rear window. Like the Seltos, the Sonet will see the addition of features like ESC, hill-start assist control, VSC, brake assist, remote engine start, traction modes, drive modes, etc in its mid-spec trims. The 'Hello Kia' voice command feature will also be introduced on the Sonet. With these updates, we expect the price of both SUVs marginally, although we will have more details on it next month.

Stay tuned to IndianAutosBlog.com for more Kia updates and other four-wheeler news.

*all prices are ex-showroom, pan-India

Addressing the brand relaunch, Mr Tae-Jin Park, Executive Director and Chief Sales and Business Strategy Officer, Kia India, commented, “Under the new brand slogan, Kia will focus on offering meaningful experiences to the customers, especially focused on the millennials and Gen-Z – the future of the country. With Kia’s new brand identity and our refreshed portfolio, we are extremely elated to have a purpose-driven business that will elevate the customer experience not just in terms of the features and connectivity inside the cars, but the overall engagement experience with our brand.”

Also Read - Kia Seltos & Sonet to Be Available on Subscription Basis Soon

Moreover, during the brand relaunch exercise, Kia confirmed that the updated Sonet and Seltos will soon be launched in the country, and they will bear the new logo. Alongside, the brand is aiming to strengthen its service network with 360 additional touch points in 218 different cities, including tier-3 and tier-4 towns as well. Kia is also the fastest carmaker to cross the 2,50,000 sales unit milestone and holds the fourth position in the Indian car market in terms of annual sales.

Talking of the updated Sonet and Seltos, the SUVs are slated to go on sale by next month. The refreshed models will come with additional features. While the Sonet will get steering-mounted paddle shifters, the updated Seltos is likely to come with a panoramic sunroof. An all-new model is also confirmed for next year by the brand. Currently, Kia sells a total of three products in the Indian market – Seltos, Sonet, and Carnival.

Considering the current economic scenarios, new car buyers are still uncertain about taking up the responsibilities that come bundled with car ownership. In such a case, leasing or subscription services make for a better deal. The brand further affirmed that it will be seeking inputs from prospective consumers before rolling out its subscription services. As of now, the South-Korean brand is also keen on increasing its production capacity to ensure a reduced waiting period for its products.

Also Read - Kia Sonet To Gain Paddle Shifters For Automatic Variants

Taking of Kia’s lineup in India, the carmaker sells a total of three cars, namely Sonet, Seltos, and Carnival. The Sonet being the most affordable of all, retails at a starting price of INR 6.79 lakh and tops out at INR 13.20 lakh. It is offered with three engine options – 1.2L NA petrol, 1.0L turbo-petrol, and 1.5L turbo-diesel. Furthermore, the gearbox options include – 5-speed MT, 6-speed MT, 6-speed iMT, 6-speed AT, and 7-speed DCT. In the Indian market, it rivals the likes of Hyundai Venue, Tata Nexon and more.

Next on the list is the Seltos, which can be had with either a 115 PS 1.5L petrol motor or a 115 PS 1.5L diesel engine. Moreover, there is a 1.4L turbo-petrol motor to settle down with. Transmission options on the Seltos include a 6-speed MT, 6-speed AT, 7-speed DCT, and IVT. Prices for the Seltos range in between INR 9.89 lakh – INR 17.45 lakh. The flagship product of the South-Korean brand – Carnival, is retailed exclusively with a 2.2L oil burner with prices starting at INR 24.95 lakh and going up to INR 33.95 lakh.

The above video has been uploaded by ARK Moto Vlog on Youtube and it gives us a walkaround of the 2021 Kia Sonet from a dealership yard. The variant featured here in this video is the HTX trim with the 1.0L turbo-petrol engine and a 7-speed DCT gearbox. The Sonet HTX is a new trim added to the automatic variant lineup of the SUV. This comes as a replacement to the now-discontinued mid-spec HTK+ trim for the diesel-automatic and the 1.0 turbo-petrol DCT variants of the Sonet.

Also Read : Kia Seltos 7-Seater - Hyundai Alcazar Sibling - Rendered

The addition of paddle shifters to the 1.0L turbo-petrol DCT variants should greatly increase the appeal of the Sonet, particularly for people seeking more engagement with the driving experience of the sub-compact SUV. Currently, no automatic variants of the Sonet are offered with the paddle shift feature. It is also being speculated that paddle shifters will be introduced on the 1.5L diesel engine with the 6-speed torque converter automatic gearbox in a similar HTX trim. Along with the new HTX trim, paddle shifters will be offered on the top-spec GTX+ trims as well.

Other feature additions on the Sonet HTX trim include 16-inch alloy wheels that replace the steel wheels with wheel covers. It also benefits from new curtains for the rear window. The Sonet HTX is a mid-spec trim and apart from the aforementioned features, it comes equipped with features such as an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, traction control, electronic stability control, hill assist control, vehicle stability management, multiple driving modes, LED headlamps and tail lamps, ORVMs with LED turn signals, electric sunroof, cruise control, remote engine start from smart key and much more.

The Kia Sonmet is currently offered with three engine options – 83 PS 1.2L petrol, 120 PS 1.0L turbo-petrol, and 115 PS 1.5L diesel. The gearbox choices include a 6-speed MT, 5-speed MT, 6-speed iMT, 7-speed DCT, and 6-speed AT. Prices for the Kia Sonet currently range between INR 6.79 lakh - INR 13.19 lakh (ex-showroom). Prices are expected to go up marginally across the range with the introduction of new features and shuffling in the variant lineup. The 2021 Kia Sonet will officially make its public debut tomorrow, on April 27, 2021.

Stay tuned to IndianAutosBlog.com for more Kia updates and other four-wheeler news.