By: Charles Molefe
When Kia first introduced the Sonet, it aimed to capture the heart of the ever-growing compact SUV market. Kia has elevated the game with the latest iteration, proving once again that practicality can meet style, performance, and cutting-edge technology. Let’s dive into what makes the Kia Sonet an exciting choice for the urban adventurer.
Aesthetics.
The Kia Sonet arrives with a sharper, more distinctive look. Kia has fine-tuned its design language, resulting in a bolder front grille, refreshed LED headlights, and sleeker lines that help the Sonet stand out in a segment often filled with bland contenders. It’s got that muscular SUV stance that turns heads, yet still manages to feel compact enough for tight urban spaces. The rear lights now feature a stylish LED bar, adding a dash of modern flair to an otherwise aggressive silhouette. Step inside, and you’re welcomed by an interior that’s not just functional but elegant. Soft-touch materials, ergonomic seats, and a well-laid-out dashboard make this cabin feel a class above. Kia’s focus on space and comfort shows, especially with improved rear-seat room.
Technology and Features.
Kia has packed the Sonet with technology that rivals many higher-end competitors. The 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system is responsive and integrates seamlessly with both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. You also get a wireless charger, comfortable seats, and a premium Bose sound system to keep you entertained on those long commutes. But the real star is Kia’s ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems), offering features like lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert—making it one of the safest compact SUVs in its class. A big improvement in the Sonet is the new digital cluster and AI-based voice recognition system. From controlling the climate control, the Sonet responds effortlessly to voice commands, making daily driving a tech-savvy experience.
Performance, Economy and Comfort.
Under the hood, the Sonet offers several engine options, but the 1.0-litre turbocharged petrol with a 7-speed DCT (Dual-Clutch Transmission) stands out. It delivers a zippy 88 kW and 172 Nm of torque, perfect for urban driving. Whether you’re navigating congested city streets or accelerating on the highway, the Sonet feels responsive and eager. The DCT offers smooth shifts, making it a joy in stop-start traffic or when you’re spirited on open roads. Ride comfort is commendable. Kia has re-tuned the suspension, making the Sonet absorb bumps effortlessly while still retaining that all-important stability at higher speeds. Noise insulation is top-notch, giving the cabin a quiet, serene feel even on rougher surfaces.
Summary.
Kia has successfully updated the Sonet with smarter tech, improved safety, and a better driving experience. It ticks all the boxes for urban drivers who need a compact SUV that can tackle daily commutes, weekend road trips, and everything in between. Its striking looks, tech-loaded interior, and balanced performance make it a strong contender in the compact SUV segment. For the modern-day urban warrior who needs practicality but doesn’t want to compromise on style, the Kia Sonet is a top pick. It’s a smart, capable, and connected SUV that’s ready to tackle the city streets and beyond.
Gottagged Rating.
8.5 / 10
Pricing.
R 366 995 – R 484 995
Warranty.
Unlimited Kilometre / 5-year warranty.
Service Plan.
4-year / 60 000 km service plan.
