Kia Sonet front-end styling spied ahead of August 7 reveal
Some spy photos on the internet have revealed the front-end styling of the upcoming Kia Sonet. The sub-four-metre SUV is set to be revealed in India on August 7.
The photos show that the look of the new Sonet remains largely in line with what was previewed with the recently revealed sketch. The rectangular set of headlamps with the large Tiger Nose grille, chunky and a contoured bonnet is seen here. Notably, Kia hasn't slimmed down body panels drastically. The Sonet also carries a large silver scuff plate and wide air dams in it bumpers, further adding to its SUV looks. The glasshouse seems quite reminiscent of the Venue, with its slightly upright look.
The interiors haven't been shown yet but we expect a design similar to what we have seen on the Seltos. There should be a floating two-part cluster for the instrumentation and 8-inch touchscreen, slim AC vents and mix of dark, beige and chrome trim. Equipment levels are expected to be class-leading with numerous first such as a 360-degree camera, branded audio system, UVO connected car features and so on. Safety equipment like dual front airbags with ABS will be standard.
Based on the Hyundai Venue's running gear, we expect the Sonet to get the same engine and gearbox combinations. These will be the 1.0-litre turbo-petrol with the dual-clutch AT, the 1.2-litre petrol engine with a 5-speed manual and the 1.5-litre 100PS diesel engine with a 6-speed manual. The newly revealed iMT semi-automatic transmission from the Venue will be available with the Sonet too.
Aside from the Venue, the Kia Sonet will rival the likes of the Maruti Suzuki Vitara Brezza, Hyundai Venue, Tata Nexon, Mahindra XUV300 and the Ford EcoSport. We expect prices to be very similar to that of the Venue, between Rs 6.5 lakh and Rs 11.5 lakh, ex-showroom.
Spy image source: Cardekho