Introduced in 2021, the Sonet has become one of Kia’s best sellers here in Mzansi. This year, the Sonet range gets significant updates to help it remain competitive.
1. Exterior design
The 2024 Sonet gets a refreshed look following Kia’s “Opposites United” design philosophy. It’s a design language that seems opaque – watch this video and see if you can make sense of it. According to Kia, it has spawned a new front fascia with a redesigned grille, bumper, and bonnet for the Sonet.
The taillights and rear bumper have also been redesigned to give the Sonet a more modern and sporty appearance. There’s also a new Pewter Olive metallic colour option available (as pictured in this post), along with two-tone options with a black roof. Avoid the later at all cost – global warming is here and a black roof and hotter cabin will make the air-conditioner work harder, burning more fuel!
2. Interior changes
The interior layout remains largely unchanged, but there are new upholstery options. A combination of black cloth and artificial leather seats are standard, while higher-end trims get artificial leather upholstery.
The infotainment system comes in two sizes: an 8-inch touchscreen or a new 10,25-inch touchscreen which is integrated with a 10,25-inch digital instrument cluster on higher trims.
3. Revised range and improved safety
Kia has reorganised the Sonet range to offer more choices to customers and to fend off competition from the likes of the Chery Tiggo 4 Pro, Suzuki Fronx, Toyota Urban Cruiser, Haval Jolion, and Hyundai Venue.
There’s a new top-of-the-line SX trim for the Sonet that comes with several advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS). These include Blind Spot Collision Avoidance Assist, Lane Keep Assist, Lane Follow Assist, and Forward Collision Avoidance Assist.
Other trims also get some feature upgrades, like rear parking sensors, automatic folding side mirrors, and a wireless charging pad on higher trims.
4. Previous engine line-up remains
The updated Sonet retains the 1,5-litre naturally aspirated and 1,0-litre turbocharged petrol engines from the previous model. However, there’s a shift in how they are offered across trims.
The 1,5 litre engine is now the more widely available option and the 1,0-litre turbo is unfortunately only available in one model derivative. Transmission choices depend on the engine selected, with a five-speed manual or CVT for the 1,5 litre and a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT) for the 1,0 litre turbo.
5. What you can expect to pay
The new Sonet LX and EX range has gone on sale in June 2024, with EX Plus and SX derivatives available from late July 2024. Recommended retail pricing for the range is as follows:
Model range
- Kia Sonet 1.5 LX Manual: R366 995
- Kia Sonet 1.5 LX CVT: R391 995
- Kia Sonet 1.5 EX CVT: R411 995
- Kia Sonet 1.0 T-GDi EX DCT: R436 995
- Kia Sonet 1.5 EX Plus CVT: R454 995
- Kia Sonet 1.5 SX CVT: R484 995
All Sonets ship as standard with Kia’s industry-leading unlimited kilometre/5-year warranty, roadside assistance, and a 4-year / 60 000 km service plan.
