New Kia Sonet Facelift vs Old Model Spec Comparison: What's Different?

The redesigned Sonet from Kia marked its formal debut in India recently. This is the first facelift that the sub-4-metre SUV has had since its initial launch in 2020, and it comes with a more expansive feature set in addition to a few aesthetic tweaks. The revamped Sonet will be offered in seven variants, with 11 single-tone and dual-tone exterior colour options, including the new Pewter Olive shade. The South Korean automaker has also kept the same range of trim levels and powertrain options as the previous model. The order books for the 2024 Sonet are going to open on December 20, with the official launch scheduled for early next year. Notably, Kia has declared that the K-Code, a top-priority customer delivery program, will be reinstated for the Sonet as well as the other Kia models offered for sale in the nation. So, how does the all-new Sonet stack up against the outgoing model? Here's a detailed look. 

Also Read: Kia Sonet Facelift HTE, HTK, GTX+, X-Line and More Variants Explained: Which One Should You Pick?

New Kia Sonet Facelift vs Old Model Spec Comparison: Engine and Gearbox

The 1.2-litre naturally aspirated petrol mill with 82bhp of peak power and 115Nm of torque, the 1.5-litre four-cylinder turbo diesel mill with 114bhp of maximum power and 250Nm of peak torque, and the 1.0-litre three-cylinder turbo petrol engine with 118bhp and 172Nm are all retained in the Sonet facelift. Kia has brought back the manual transmission for its diesel engine, which is something new. To suit a variety of driving preferences, the 1.2-litre petrol version is offered with a 6-speed manual, 6-speed iMT, and a 7-speed DCT; the 1.0-litre turbo petrol has a 5-speed manual; and the 1.5-litre diesel has a 6-speed manual in addition to the current 6-speed iMT and 6-speed AT. 

New Kia Sonet Facelift vs Old Model Spec Comparison: Styling Cues

In comparison to the previous model, the 2024 Sonet facelift has a revamped fascia that includes new headlights with integrated daytime running lights, LED fog lights, a redesigned Tiger Nose grille, and a new front bumper. The modified Sonet's rear end adopts a full-length light strip that sits next to the revamped taillamps, following the popular trend of light bars. The Sonet facelift's new taillamps are similar to those on the Seltos facelift. The recently designed alloy wheels, which come in various sizes depending on the version, are also available.

New Kia Sonet Facelift vs Old Model Spec Comparison: Feature Set

In terms of features, the most exciting highlight is the inclusion of ADAS. The ADAS suite of the new Sonet comprises ten different functions including High Beam Assist, Lane Departure Warning, Lane Keeping Assist, Lane Following Assist, Leading Vehicle Departure Alert, Driver Attention Warning, and Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (pedestrian, car, and cyclists). The newly unveiled SUV constitutes 14 additional safety features and six airbags as standard, up from the previous model. A tyre pressure monitoring system (TMPS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), HAC, Anti Lock Braking Systems (ABS), brake-force assist, VSM, and rear parking sensors are a few of the basic safety features.

Along with these features, the manufacturer has added an electric sunroof, an air purifier with bacteria and virus protection, a rear door sunshade curtain, a 360-degree camera with blind view monitor, rear-wheel disc brakes, new traction modes for automatic variants (sand, mud, and wet), drive modes (normal, eco, and sport), an auto-dimming IRVM with Kia Connect control, Amazon Alexa support, seven-speaker Bose audio system and ventilated front seats.

New Kia Sonet Facelift vs Old Model Spec Comparison: Interior Layout

Subtle improvements have been made to the Sonet's cabin compared to its predecessor. The car now incorporates a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment unit, an all-digital instrument cluster, LED ambient lighting, a new GT Line lettering on the steering wheel, and a surround-view monitor with the Find My Vehicle feature. 

Speaking of the colour themes for the interior, customers can choose from options such as black and brown, black and beige, black and black with leatherette, and sage green with black interior and leatherette upholstery.

Also Read: Kia Sonet Facelift Unveiled in India, Gets a Bolder Design, ADAS, and More

New Kia Sonet Facelift vs Old Model Spec Comparison: Price

Upon launch, the 2024 Sonet is anticipated to retail for between Rs 8 lakh and Rs 15 lakh (ex-showroom). The old model, meanwhile, carries a price tag ranging between Rs 7.79 and Rs 14.89 lakh (ex-showroom).