Kia’s Sonet has been a popular choice in the compact SUV segment since its debut and in 2024, Kia has given the Sonet a mid-cycle refresh, focusing on visual and technological enhancements. Siyavuya Mbaduli got behind the wheel to see if these updates maintain the Sonet’s momentum.
The Kia Sonet burst onto the scene in 2020, offering a compelling blend of style, space, and value in the compact SUV segment. It quickly carved out a niche for itself, particularly among budget-conscious buyers seeking a feature-rich and practical urban runabout. So what can customers expect from the mid-cycle update?
A Bold New Look
Kia’s new design language, “Opposites United,” takes centre stage on the 2024 Sonet. This facelift brings the Sonet into line with Kia’s modern design aesthetic. The previous Sonet, while attractive, wasn’t the most distinctive offering. The new design gives the Sonet a bolder and more assertive stance.
The signature tiger-nose grille remains a focal point, flanked by new LED headlights that incorporate striking new “Star Map” signature lighting. Repositioned daytime running lights and fog lamps complete the more modern look.
The rear of the Sonet also receives an update with a new tailgate designed to accommodate new taillights featuring a connecting LED bar – another hallmark of the new Kia design language. This cohesive look mirrors what we’ve seen on the recently updated Kia Picanto. The overall effect is a more mature and upmarket presence for the Sonet. New alloy wheel designs add some variety depending on the trim level, with a selection of 16-inch options available.
Subtle Interior Changes
Stepping inside the 2024 Sonet, the changes are more subtle. The overall layout remains familiar, with a focus on practicality and ergonomics. The cabin uses quality materials and boasts a contemporary design aesthetic. However, some might find the interior refresh a bit conservative compared to the bolder transformation of the exterior.
The higher-end trims benefit from a new 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster that provides clear and easy-to-read vital information. The infotainment system, while not the most cutting-edge, remains user-friendly and offers wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for seamless smartphone integration.
Tech Gains Ground
The biggest news on the tech front is the introduction of a new camera-based advanced driver-assistance system (ADAS). This replaces the radar-based system used in some previous Kia models and offers features like lane departure warning, forward collision avoidance, and blind-spot monitoring. This is a welcome addition that enhances safety and driver confidence, particularly in urban environments.
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Powertrains Remain Familiar
Kia hasn’t made any significant changes under the surface for the 2024 Sonet. The car continues to be offered with familiar engine options: a Kappa 1.0 T-GDi three-cylinder turbo petrol and a Gamma 1.5 MPI naturally-aspirated petrol engine. Outputs remain unchanged, with the 1.5L producing 85 kW and 144 N.m, while the three-cylinder T-GDi offers 88 kW and 172 N.m.
A Test Drive on Familiar Grounds
Our test drive involved a trip from the Kia dealership in Umhlanga to Ballito and back, covering approximately 57 km. The 1.0-litre T-GDi engine remained the pick of the bunch, offering a good balance of performance and fuel efficiency. The onboard trip computer revealed an impressive average fuel consumption of just 6.5 litres/100 km.
The 1.0L engine delivers punchy acceleration, especially in lower gears, making navigating city traffic a breeze. The familiar 7-speed DCT transmission continues to impress with smooth gear changes and eager response to throttle inputs, making overtaking manoeuvres stress-free.
The ride remains comfortable, but a high-speed jaunt revealed a minor issue – wind noise. With all windows closed, a faint whistle could be detected, a slight intrusion into the otherwise quiet cabin.
Core Strengths Remain Intact
The Kia Sonet’s core strengths of practicality, value, and a comfortable ride are firmly intact for 2024. The suspension setup effectively absorbs bumps and road imperfections, while the steering feels light and direct at city speeds, although it can feel a touch vague at higher speeds.
A Contender in a Competitive Market
So, how does the refreshed Sonet stack up in the market? It remains a compelling option for budget-conscious buyers seeking a feature-rich and practical urban crossover. The visual and technological upgrades enhance its overall appeal, keeping it competitive against established rivals like the Volkswagen T-Cross, Hyundai Venue, and Nissan Magnite.
Pricing for the 2024 Kia Sonet starts from R366,995, making it a worthy competitor to the T-Cross, which starts at R401,600.
While the driving experience itself hasn’t been revolutionised, the refreshed Kia Sonet feels like a more mature and well-rounded package. It boasts a bolder design that aligns with Kia’s new design philosophy, improved technology and a touch more refinement. Kia has successfully added some spice to Sonet’s recipe, ensuring it remains a contender in the fiercely competitive compact SUV segment.
Kia Sonet at a Glance:
- Price: R436 995
- Engine: 1.0-litre, three-cylinder turbo petrol
- Power: 88 kW @ 6 000 r/min
- Torque: 172 N.m @ 1 500 – 4 000 r/min.
- 0-100 km/h: 11.3 seconds
- Top speed: 185 km/h
- Transmission: 7- Speed DCT
- Fuel consumption: 6.5 litres/100 km
- Emissions: 137 g/km
