The Kia Sonet, which made its debut in the Indian market in 2020, is gearing up for a facelift after being recently unveiled. Bookings for the refreshed Sonet are open, and while we have all the details except the price, the question arises: Is it worth the wait, or should one consider its competitors? Let’s delve into the details:
Model Comparison
Model | Prices (ex-showroom Delhi) |
| 2024 Kia Sonet | Rs 8 lakh onwards (expected) |
| Tata Nexon | Rs 8.10 lakh to Rs 15.50 lakh |
| Hyundai Venue | Rs 7.89 lakh to Rs 13.48 lakh |
| Maruti Brezza | Rs 8.29 lakh to Rs 14.14 lakh |
| Maruti Fronx | Rs 7.46 lakh to Rs 13.13 lakh |
| Renault Kiger | Rs 6.50 lakh to Rs 11.23 lakh |
| Nissan Magnite | Rs 6 lakh to Rs 11.02 lakh |
| Mahindra XUV300 | Rs 7.99 lakh to Rs 14.76 lakh |
Detailed Analysis:
1. Tata Nexon: BUY for Looks, Powertrains, and Good Features
The Tata Nexon, having recently undergone a facelift, presents an appealing option with its sharper design and improved cabin aesthetics. It maintains continuity with both petrol and diesel engine options and introduces a 7-speed DCT, adding versatility. Notable features include a larger 10.25-inch touchscreen, a digital driver’s display, a 360-degree camera, and six airbags as standard. However, it falls short in terms of the latest safety technology and quality issues when compared to the anticipated upgrades in the 2024 Sonet.
2. Hyundai Venue: BUY for a Similar Package with the Hyundai Badge
For those considering premium SUVs in the sub-4m category, the Hyundai Venue emerges as a close counterpart to the Kia Sonet. Sharing the same platform, both SUVs offer a comparable experience in terms of powertrains and features. However, the Venue lacks several amenities that some purchasers may find essential such as a 360-degree camera, heated seats, and larger 10.25-inch screens.
3. Maruti Brezza: BUY for Space, a Larger Petrol Engine, and a Wide Service Network
The Maruti Brezza, a stalwart in the sub-4m SUV segment, outshines the Kia Sonet in terms of space and a larger 1.5-litre petrol engine. Maruti’s wide service network also contributes to its allure. However the Brezza falls short in terms of overall quality, features that are offered, and the lack of a diesel engine option, all of which could sway a buyer’s choice.
4. Maruti Fronx: BUY for Looks and a Potent Turbo Engine
Maruti’s introduction of the Fronx in 2023 offers a new dimension to the sub-4m SUV lineup. Derived from the Baleno, it serves as a more stylized alternative to the boxy Brezza, featuring a more potent turbo-petrol unit. But it has trouble competing with the Kia Sonet particularly when it comes to quality, amenities, and the lack of more passenger room.
5. Renault Kiger/Nissan Magnite: BUY for Affordability, Decent Features, and Petrol Powertrains
The Renault Kiger and Nissan Magnite stand out as the most affordable options in the sub-4m SUV category. Despite their affordability, they offer competitive features, including cruise control, an 8-inch digital driver’s display, and a 360-degree camera in the case of the Magnite. With choices between naturally aspirated and turbocharged petrol engines and both manual and automatic transmissions, they cater to a broad consumer base.
6. Mahindra XUV300: BUY for Space and a Diesel Engine Option
Since its introduction in 2019, the Mahindra XUV300 has been a favored choice for buyers seeking a sub-4m SUV with a diesel engine. Offering segment-leading features, it stands as one of the few models in its category to provide a diesel powertrain. While a facelift is on the horizon, waiting for the updated version might be advisable unless significant discounts are available on the outgoing model.
7. 2024 Kia Sonet: HOLD for Sharper Looks, More Features, and a Range of Powertrains
The 2024 Kia Sonet, set to receive a facelift, promises a more enticing package with sharper design elements and additional features. Including a 10.25-inch digital driver’s display, a 360-degree camera, a 4-way powered driver seat, and ADAS, the Sonet aims to elevate the driving experience. Retaining both petrol and diesel engines and reintroducing the diesel-manual combination, it caters to diverse preferences. The ultimate choice, though may depend on personal preferences, and given the expected improvements, it is a strong option to think about.
Conclusion
The decision between waiting for the 2024 Kia Sonet and choosing its competitors requires a sophisticated assessment of individual tastes and interests and each model has its own set of advantages and disadvantages ranging from design aesthetics and powertrain options to features and price concerns. To fit with the buyer’s specific objectives the decision-making process should include a holistic examination of these aspects.
2024-01-01 20:59:47
