The line-up of the Kia Sonet, which competes in the popular budget crossover segment, now comprises 6 derivatives and Kia South Africa is offering all versions of the model with a 0% deposit car-finance deal, starting from R5 399 p/m.

The Indian-built Sonet was launched in the South African new-vehicle market in 2021; it competes with models such as the Chery Tiggo 4 Pro, Ford EcoSport, Honda WR-V, Nissan Magnite, Renault Kiger, Suzuki Grand Vitara, Toyota Urban Cruiser as well as the Volkswagen T-Cross.

The Sonet is based on the same platform as the Hyundai Venue, but it is produced at a different plant to its cousin (in Bangalore, which is the same facility that builds the popular Kia Seltos for South Africa).In terms of dimensions, the Sonet is 4 120 mm long, 1 790 mm wide, stands 1 610 mm high and has a 2 500-mm wheelbase, with 190 mm of ground clearance and a claimed load-bay capacity of 392 litres.

Of the range’s half a dozen derivatives, the first 2 are equipped with 6-speed manual gearboxes, while the remaining 4 have either continuously variable- or 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmissions. We previously reviewed the Sonet’s 1.5 EX and the range-topping 1.0T EX+ derivatives (the latter with video).

View deal: New Kia Sonet from R5 399 p/m with NO deposit or up to R10 000 cash back

Kia Sonet’s local lineup

LX is the base grade of the Sonet range. LX derivatives come equipped with 15-inch steel wheels, remote central locking, multifunction steering wheel, height-adjustable driver’s seat, tilt-adjustable steering column, artificial leather and cloth seat trim, aircon, electric windows (all round), electrically adjustable side mirrors, auto headlamp activation and an 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system.

The latter supports Bluetooth, plus wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and is complemented by a front USB port and reverse-view camera. Rear occupants are availed a USB for charging their devices and a central armrest with cupholders, while the rear bench can be folded flat to free up utility space.

EX derivatives, in turn, can be distinguished by their roof rails, front fog lights, silver skid plates, integrated indicator lenses (in the side mirrors), 16-inch alloy wheels and rear parking sensors. Over and above LX’s interior specification, the EX versions have leather trim on the steering wheel and gear lever.

Finally, the top-of-the-range 1.0T EX+ is additionally equipped with a 4.2-inch TFT LCD supervision cluster, artificial leather seats (with red stitching), electrically-folding side mirrors, an electrochromatic rear-view mirror, cruise control, auto aircon, drive-mode select and combination LED tail lights.

View deal: New Kia Sonet from R5 399 p/m with NO deposit or up to R10 000 cash back

Kia Sonet engine details

Most derivatives are powered by a naturally aspirated 1.5-litre 4-cylinder petrol engine, paired with either a 6-speed manual or continuously variable automatic transmission. The 1.5-litre motor produces peak outputs of 85 kW and 144 Nm of torque. Kia states claimed 0-to-100 kph times of 11.3 sec (manual) and 11.8 sec (auto), with the former said to consume 7.0 L/100 km and the latter 7.2 L/100 km respectively.

The top 2 derivatives, in turn, feature a 88 kW/172 Nm 1.0-litre 3-cylinder turbopetrol engine in combination with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The Korean carmaker says 1.0 T-GDI derivatives can sprint from 0-100 kph in 11.3 sec and, on average, consume 6.0 litres of fuel per 100 km.

Kia Sonet safety spec

In terms of safety features, the Sonet comes well-equipped for its segment. Standard kit includes ABS with EBD, electronic stability control (ESC) and hill-start assist control (HAC), dual front airbags and ISOfix child-seat anchoring points. The EX+version additionally features side and curtain airbags.

How much does the Kia Sonet cost in South Africa*?

* Based on May 2023 prices. All Sonets derivatives are sold (from new) with a 5-year/unlimited km warranty and roadside assistance as well as a 4-year/60 000 km service plan.

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View deal: New Kia Sonet from R5 399 p/m with NO deposit! or up to R10 000 cash back

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