- Kia Sonet is the sub-4 metre SUV.
- Shares platform, mechanicals with Hyundai Venue.
- Will be more upmarket than the Venue.
- To launch in second half of this year.
Kia Motors has confirmed that the Sonet, its sub-4 metre SUV codenamed QYI, will be unveiled at the 2020 Delhi Auto Expo. The Sonet will be based on the same platform and mechanicals as the Hyundai Venue, but will be more upmarket.
The Sonet and Venue are expected to have a relationship similar to the Creta and Seltos, which means the Sonet will have similar exterior and interior dimensions as the Venue. It will also have similar engine choices, with the 1.0 litre TGDi direct injection turbocharged petrol motor mated to a 7 speed dual clutch automatic transmission. In addition, it will offer the 1.2 litre Kappa petrol, and the 1.4 litre turbodiesel mated to six speed manual transmissions.
The Sonet will distinguish itself from the Venue with its styling. It will sport an aggressive, modern design language like the Seltos, and offer features like all-LED headlamps and tail lamps, LED DRLs, and dual tone alloy wheels. Inside, it will offer UVO smart connectivity, Kia’s equivalent of Hyundai’s BlueLink, and an eSIM that will make it an internet connected vehicle. A mobile phone app will give the owner access to a number of features remotely.
The Kia QYI/ Sonet is expected to be displayed in near-production form at the Auto Expo, with a launch in the second half of the year, possibly in time for the festive season. It will be priced very aggressively, from Rs 7-11 lakh, ex showroom, which should give the Maruti Suzuki Vitara Brezza, Ford Ecosport, Tata Nexon, Mahindra XUV 300, and yes, the Hyundai Venue, something to think about.
