Kia Sonet Facelift Set to Shine in India Next Month

Kia India is preparing to showcase the facelifted Sonet in December this year, and insiders suggest that pricing details may be disclosed in early 2024. The Sonet is set for rejuvenation three years after its global debut in India, which took place in August 2020.

The anticipated updated version of the Kia Sonet is expected to feature enhanced safety measures, with six airbags likely becoming a standard inclusion. Drawing inspiration from the Seltos, the facelifted Sonet is poised to incorporate the Seltos' touchscreen, elevating the in-car entertainment and connectivity experience. While these updates promise added safety and advanced technology, the Sonet facelift is not anticipated to receive any mechanical modifications, maintaining its existing performance characteristics.

What's new in Kia Sonet?

Kia's extensive testing of the updated Sonet in India, spanning nearly a year, has been a precursor to its imminent launch. While the Indian variant remains camouflaged, the international markets have caught a glimpse of the undisguised refreshed Sonet set to hit the sales floor. Following the footsteps of the recently launched Seltos facelift, the updated Sonet is anticipated to undergo significant changes to its plastic components, with minimal adjustments to the sheet metal, promising a refreshed look and feel.

Leaked images circulating on the internet confirm notable updates to the upcoming model, featuring an entirely new front bumper design. The GT Line and HT Line variants will showcase distinct designs. Noteworthy changes include fresh headlamp aesthetics with drop-down elements extending vertically into the front bumper. Revised daytime running lamp signatures and fog lamp housings contribute to the refreshed look. While the overall profile remains consistent, differences in chrome accents and body cladding bring subtle variations. Both plastic wheel caps and alloy wheel designs will introduce new styles across the entire lineup. The rear of the vehicle sees a transformation with vertical tail-lamps connected by an LED light bar, accompanied by a robust rear bumper boasting a dual-tone black and silver finish.

Kia Sonet facelift interior

The updated Sonet will undergo modifications to its dashboard layout, accompanied by the integration of new switchgear. Potential inclusion of screens from the Seltos facelift is anticipated. Certain variants may feature an all-new instrument cluster, resembling those found in the Venue and the Carens. Furthermore, the entire lineup is expected to introduce new upholstery shades, enhancing the interior aesthetics of the refreshed Sonet.

Powertrain and tech of Kia Sonet facelift

The current Sonet features BS6 Stage II-compliant engines, updated earlier this year, eliminating the need for mechanical changes in the upcoming facelift. The SUV will retain its existing engine lineup: an 83hp, 115Nm, 1.2-litre petrol; a 120hp, 172Nm, 1.0-litre turbo-petrol; and a 116hp, 250Nm, 1.5-litre diesel. Transmission options are expected to include a 5-speed manual for the petrol, 6-speed iMT for the turbo-petrol and diesel, and the possibility of a diesel manual in select variants. The turbo-petrol and diesel engines may offer a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic and a 6-speed automatic, respectively.

Concerning safety, Kia India is likely to standardize six airbags across all variants, with potential inclusion of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) on top variants, similar to the Venue, making it a noteworthy addition to the segment.

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