Upcoming Kia Sonet Facelift exterior design leaked ahead of launch
The external design of the Kia Sonet facelift has been shared online ahead of its scheduled arrival in India in December 2023. While some disguised test mules have been spotted previously, new photographs that have leaked on the internet provide us with a comprehensive look at the external appearance of the redesigned Sonet. Also, Kia India has stated that these are of the Chinese-specific Sonet and the design and specifications of the India-bound Sonet facelift will vary from the Chinese edition shown in the images here.
This is the Sonet's first mid-lifecycle upgrade since its introduction in September 2020. The most visible changes are the new front bumper and headlight assembly - the main headlamp cluster has preserved its design, but there's a new drop-down element that extends into the bumper below and includes upgraded LED Daytime Running Lamps and fog lamps.
The 2024 Sonet will be distinguished by its 16-inch dual-tone alloy wheels with a captivating diamond-cut design. The facelifted Kia Sonet will have Seltos-inspired LED taillights, an LED light bar on the tailgate, a boxier rear bumper, and a new integrated spoiler at the back. It also has dual-tone roof rails, a shark-fin antenna, and an electronic sunroof.
Kia Sonet Facelift: Powertrain
The existing 83PS and 115Nm, 1.2-litre petrol engine, the 120PS and 172Nm, 1.0-litre turbo-petrol engine, and a 116PS and 250Nm, 1.5-litre diesel engine are anticipated to be retained in the Sonet facelift. The petrol engine is likely to be paired with a 5-speed manual transmission, while the turbo-petrol and diesel engines will continue to use the 6-speed iMT. They will also receive a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic and a 6-speed automatic transmission, respectively.
Kia Sonet Facelift: InteriorInside, the new Sonet is slated to gain a fully digital instrument cluster, touch-based controls for the AC functions, a tan and black interior motif, and built-in sun shades for the second-row passengers.
Passengers' comfort is also prioritized, with ventilated front seats and automated temperature controls included. The advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) may be available, albeit it may be confined to the top-tier models, adding an added layer of safety and convenience.
Once launched the Kia Sonet facelift will renew its rivalry with the Hyundai Venue, Tata Nexon, Mahindra XUV300, Maruti Suzuki Brezza, Maruti Suzuki Fronx, Nissan Magnite and Renault Kiger. Currently, the Sonet is priced between 7.79 lakh and Rs 14.89 lakh
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