Kia Sonet production model unveiled
For the last few weeks we have been keenly following the surrounding developments around the new Kia Sonet compact SUV. We first saw the sneak peeks, then the artists renderings and just a few days ago the first real images of the production models were released.
Related: All new Kia Sonet revealed
Coming out of the Andra Pradesh facility in India, the Sonet will be the second production model alongside the Seltos to be manufactured for global markets. We are honestly excited to see this vehicle arrive in South Africa as more and more about the Sonet is reveled.
(The specification that we have seen has been made for the Indian market so there may be some differences when our local models arrived.)
Global design
As mentioned before the Sonet will retain Kia's signature design traits such as the tiger-nose grille and grille mesh as well as the bold lines we've become accustomed too. Unfortunately, much the same with concept cars, the artist renderings were somewhat off with what has actually rolled off the assembly line. This is not a bad thing, as in actuality the production model is incredibly striking and doesn't stray too far from Kia's well known design language.
Standout exterior features include emotive electric heart beat pulse shaped DRL's and tail lamps as well as the unique C pillar design and wrap-around rear window glass. The Sonet is released in two trim levels, the base model and then the GT Line which is aimed at the higher end of the segment with a sportier aspiration.
Interior style
We previously made mention of Kia's intention to make the interior the centre piece of the Sonet. GT Line models get heated and ventilated seats with red stitching that matches with the D-shaped steering wheel and soft touch door cards. When it comes to technology and convenience, Kia has packed the Sonet with a host of first-in-class fitments such as a 10,25-inch HD touchscreen with navigation and live traffic, a Smart Pure Air Purifier with virus protection, BOSE Premium seven-speaker audio with sub-woofer, LED Sound Mood Lighting, remote engine start for automatic and manual transmission via UVO Connect and Smart Key; wireless map updates, multi-drive & traction modes and grip control for automatic models and a wireless smartphone charger with cooling function.
Safety priorities
The Kia will be fitted with class leading safety features such as projector foglaps, tyre pressure monitoring, ISOfix, front and rear PDC (Park Distance Control) ABS (Anti Lock Brakes)and EBD (Electronic Brake Force Distribution), ESC (Electronic Stability Control) Hill Start Assist Brake Assist and 6 airbags.
Engines and Drivetrain options a plenty
Kia has now revealed what will be powering the Sonet and there is quite a bevy of options being made available. Although it is still unclear which options SA will receive, we can report that the Sonet will leave the factory in India with the option of two petrol engine offerings in Smartstream 1.2-litre four-cylinder and powerful 1.0 T-GDi. A 1.5-litre CRDi diesel engine will also be in the mix with a choice of transmission options made up of five and six speed manuals, an intuitive seven-speed DCT, six-speed automatic, and KIA’s revolutionary new six-speed Smartstream intelligent manual transmission.
Slowburn
There has been no indications of pricing as yet but expect it to be in the same ballpark as its closest rival the Hyundai Venue
Kia Motors SA has pegged the Sonet to arrive later this year, and we will be looking forward to taking it on the road. Keep up to date with all the information about this upcoming model by following our social media pages and subscribing to our newsletter.
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This week in SA motoring news 24/07/2020
