The latest South Korean mini crossover will have a lengthy equipment list
The Kia Seltos struck a chord with the Indian audience right from get go and the brand image it has built will have a positive rub-off on the subsequent models from the South Korean automaker. So, it is no surprise that there is a lot of buzz around the Kia Sonet sub-4m SUV which is slated to be officially unveiled on 7th of August.
Spy shots of the latest Kia’s interior has now emerged, giving us a fair idea on what to expect from the mini SUV. For starters, there are are few items which are immediately recognizable as Seltos derivatives.
The flat-bottomed multi function steering wheel is one and the single rectangular enclosure that covers instrument console and touchscreen infotainment system is the other. It also looks like the Sonet inherits its elder sibling’s 10.25-inch in multimedia system.
While the layout is similar to that of Seltos, the Kia Sonet’s interior sports a fresh design with silver accented, vertically oriented AC vents, digital instrument console and a simple center console. The upright dashboard maximizes space for the front occupants.
This particular variant belongs to GT Line trim as evident from the little badge on the steering wheel. The gear lever confirms that this is the DCT automatic variant. The black leather seats with contrast stitching are also consistent with this variant. Kia Sonet GT Line Petrol Automatic will most likely be the most expensive variant on offer.
In short, the Kia Sonet interior looks like a pleasant place to be in. It manages to retain the Seltos’ premium appeal which will come in handy to fend off the competition.
Engine Specifications
The Sonet is essentially a Hyundai Venue with a different tophat. Both models share a lot of components including the powertrain lineup. The range will start with the naturally aspirated 1.2-liter petrol mill with 82 hp and 114 Nm of torque on tap.
The diesel engine will be a 1.5-liter unit producing 99 hp and 240 Nm of torque. Range-topper will be a 1.0-liter turbocharged petrol motor pumping out 118 hp and 172 Nm of torque. The NA petrol motor will employ a 5-MT while the other two will come with 6-MT. The turbo petrol will also be offered with iMT and a 7-speed DCT.
Kia will position the Sonet in the premium end of mini SUV segment. So, expect the equipment list to be the longest with highlights including LED headlamps, multiple airbags, ABS with EBD, ESP, TC, TPMS, state-of-the-art connectivity features, wireless phone charging, automatic climate control and so on.
