First Drive: Kia Sonet

First Drive: Kia Sonet

Over the last few years, Kia has raised the bar—I'm sure I'm not the only one who has noticed. The desire for more high-end products by Kia has affected each model in its lineup in some way, shape, or form. A few years ago, the Sonet made its debut as a fresh and sensible option for individuals seeking a more compact but practical small SUV. Now that it's been updated, it offers a new, higher-spec option than the EX Plus. 

The new facelifted Sonet offers minor aesthetic changes, two power unit and transmission options, as well as the addition of the SX spec. It comes with the choice of a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated engine that is paired with either a CVT or a 6-speed manual, producing 85kW and 144Nm providing a 0-100km/h time of 10.5 seconds. The second option is a 1.0-litre turbocharged engine mounted to a 7-speed DCT gearbox that produces 88kW and 172Nm, allowing for a 0-100km/h time of 11.6 seconds. 

While both engine options provide enough torque to handle highway driving, it feels underpowered when overtaking at speed. Still, it has enough low-end power to handle day-to-day driving. For the more astute reader, you would notice that the turbocharged variation is the slower option while providing more power. This is due to the gear ratio design, which opts for better consumption during acceleration. The ride quality is impressive, with comfortable shock absorption on most road surfaces, and while maintaining a supple quality, the Sonet retains its composure in the corners and tricky handling situations. 

Kia's new Sonet comes loaded with tech and safety features. The base model is the LX and comes standard with ABS and ESC, an 8-inch infotainment screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a 4.2-inch TFT supervision cluster, daytime running lights, hill start assist, a combined cloth and leather interior, and 16-inch styled steel wheels. The LX only comes with the 1.5-litre engine option, with both the manual and the CVT coming in at R366,995 and R391,995, respectively.

The next option in the lineup is the EX, which adds to the exterior and cabin experience by implementing rear parking sensors, LED daytime running lights, LED rear combination lights, a centre armrest with a storage box, cruise control, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. The EX comes with the option of either the 1.5-litre CVT for R411,995 or the 1.0-litre turbo coupled to the 7-speed DCT for R436,995. 

In addition to the EX, there is the EX Plus, which adds to the interior features list. It comes with six airbags over the standard two for the driver and front passenger, 16-inch diamond-cut wheels, automatic climate control, a 10.25-inch LCD supervision cluster, a 10.25-inch infotainment screen, full synthetic leather upholstery, and an electromagnetic rear-view mirror. It's priced at R454,995 and is only available with the 1.5-litre CVT.

Although the EX Plus was the previous model's top specification, the Sonet now has a new specification, the SX. It includes push-button start, LED headlights and fog lamps, lane-keeping and follow assist, front collision warning, wireless charging, and drive mode selection. Only the 1.5-litre CVT configuration is available for this top-of-the-line model, which costs R484,995.

With its impressive interior and boot space, it manages to retain its compact exterior while still being a fantastic small SUV. The EX is my preferred spec at the price point because it provides a tech-savvy experience without compromising too much on the price front, while the EX Plus provides a more premium interior for what is still a reasonable price. 

The 1.0-litre turbo is also my engine of choice, with excellent power delivery, responsive gear changes, and frugal consumption figures. With that being said, the 1.5 CVT also provides a satisfying and responsive drive, but it lacks the same engagement you'd find in the 1.0T DCT. The Kia Sonet comes standard with an unlimited kilometre/5-year warranty, roadside assistance, and a 100,000-kilometre/4-year pre-paid service plan.

Overall, the Kia Sonet is a great small SUV. It offers good levels of equipment, excellent ride quality, and a stylish look for a competitive price. Compared to competitors such as the Hyundai Venue and Suzuki Grand Vitara, Kia’s entry provides a broader range of safety and user technology at a similar price. It’s an excellent family vehicle, with plenty of luggage capacity, good safety features, and an enjoyable driving experience, making it an ideal choice for anyone wishing to buy into the SUV market.

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