Kia Sonet :Everything you want to know about ADV News, Photos & Exclusive stories.

Our long-term Kia Sonet is going back home. While Shivank used the Sonet in the first month, he was forced to part ways with it because he wasn’t really taking full benefit of the frugal nature of its diesel engine. Considering my daily commute is 26km (one-way), a diesel – or Sonet in this case – would make more sense for someone like me. So, naturally, for the past two months I have been using it in the name of road testing. All I can say is, I am more-than-satisfied with its efficiency, and even performance. 
As already mentioned, the Sonet’s diesel engine’s efficiency is its main USP. In daily driving, I was easily averaging close to 13km/l. That’s quite impressive given most of my commute is spent sitting idle in chock-a-block traffic. And don’t forget this is the automatic version we’re talking about. Speaking of the AT transmission, I love the convenience it brings, especially in stop-go traffic. It makes driving, or even getting stuck in traffic, a relaxing affair. And when you’re listening to your favourite songs on the Sonet’s impeccable Bose audio, life’s good indeed. 
So, is there anything I didn’t like? There are a couple of things, actually. The clatter from the diesel engine is quite loud during cold starts, and it’s something you can hear even when you’re playing loud music. The suspension is stiff, and this along with all the rattles from the parcel tray and other panels, make driving over bad or broken roads quite an annoying affair. Also, one thing that I have noticed lately is that the throttle response can be jerky in traffic, especially in Normal and Sport modes. It’s surprisingly smooth in Eco mode, though. Lastly, the space. You must have already read about it in our Sonet vs Syros comparison, but the Sonet’s rear bench is quite cramped and when I adjust the driving seat for my 6ft frame, there’s hardly any legroom left for the passenger directly behind.
Overall, the Sonet has its pros and cons. And after living with it, I have realized that it’s a perfect daily runabout because of its size, efficiency, driving experience, and the creature comforts it comes packed with. Its tight rear bench and firm ride can be a deal breaker for some, but if these aren’t your primary requirements, you won’t regret buying and living with the Sonet.Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.autox.com/long-term-reports/kia-sonet-long-term-review-february-2025-report-119973/" target="_blank">Kia Sonet Long Term Review, February 2025 Report</a>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.autox.com/long-term-reports/kia-sonet-long-term-review-january-2025-report-119816/" target="_blank">Kia Sonet Long Term Review, January 2025 Report</a> 
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When it came: December 2024
 Current odo reading: 15,893km 
Mileage this month: 1,125km
Fuel efficiency: 14km/l
What’s good: Efficiency, features, performance
What’s not: Stiff suspension, rear seat space

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Kia Sonet Long Term Review, March 2025 Report

In daily driving, I was easily averaging close to 13km/l. That’s quite impressive given most of my commute is spent sitting idle in chock-a-block traffic.

Kia’s latest SUV, the Syros, joins its more established sibling, the Sonet, to give buyers more choices in the sub-compact SUV space. But which one really makes more sense for your money? In this detailed comparison, Shivank Bhatt pits the Kia Sonet against the Kia Syros to help you make an informed decision.

Kia Sonet vs Kia Syros – Which One Makes More Sense? | autoX Comparison

Kia’s latest SUV, the Syros, joins its more established sibling, the Sonet, to give buyers more choices in the sub-compact SUV space. But which one really makes more sense for your money? In this detailed comparison, Shivank Bhatt pits the Kia Sonet against the Kia Syros to help you make an informed decision.

<a href="https://www.autox.com/new-cars/kia/">Kia India</a> recorded 25,525 units in domestic sales for March, showing a 19.3% increase from 21,400 units in March last year. Over the entire fiscal year, the company’s sales reached more than 2.55 lakh units, marking a 4% rise over the 2.46 lakh units sold in FY 2023-24. The <a href="https://www.autox.com/new-cars/kia/sonet/">Sonet</a> was the leading model, contributing 30% of total sales, followed by the <a href="https://www.autox.com/new-cars/kia/seltos/">Seltos</a>, <a href="https://www.autox.com/new-cars/kia/carens/">Carens</a>, and <a href="https://www.autox.com/new-cars/kia/syros/">Syros</a>, which accounted for 26%, 22%, and 20%, respectively. This positive trend is reflected in quarterly sales, which amounted to 75,576 units, a 15.6% increase from the 65,369 units sold in the same period last year. Furthermore, Kia exported 26,892 units, strengthening its position in global markets.<div style="width: 100%; height: auto;" class="post-image">
 <img src="https://images.autox.com/uploads/2024/10/Kia-Seltos-3.jpg" alt="Kia Seltos " style="width: 100%; height: auto;">
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 Hardeep Singh Brar, Sr. VP and Head of Sales and Marketing, commented: 'Our strong sales growth is a testament to the trust our customers have in Kia’s products and our commitment to delivering world-class mobility solutions. The overwhelming response to the Kia Syros within just two months of its launch reaffirms our understanding of evolving consumer preferences and our ability to cater to them effectively. As we continue to expand our presence and strengthen our portfolio, we remain focused on innovation, quality, and customer satisfaction. With this momentum, we are confident of further solidifying Kia’s position as one of India’s most loved auto brands.'<h2>Kia Syros: Mechanical Specs and Features</h2><div style="width: 100%; height: auto;" class="post-image">
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 The Syros, the latest offering in the brand's portfolio, had a remarkable start, with 15,986 units sold following its launch. Priced between Rs 9 lakh and Rs 17.80 lakh, it fills the space between the Sonet and Seltos in Kia’s lineup. Prices are ex-showroom figures.Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.autox.com/news/car-news/new-kia-ev6-launched-at-rs-6590-lakh-in-india-120244/">New Kia EV6 Launched at Rs 65.90 Lakh in India</a>Kia provides two engine choices for the Syros: a 1.0-litre turbocharged three-cylinder producing 118bhp and 172Nm of torque, and a 1.5-litre diesel four-cylinder generating 114bhp and 250Nm. A six-speed manual transmission is standard across all variants, while the automatic options differ&nbsp;– the petrol version features a seven-speed DCT, and the diesel variant comes with a six-speed torque converter.On the feature front, the Syros is equipped with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, an 8-speaker Harman Kardon sound system, ambient lighting, and ventilated seats. Additional highlights include a power-adjustable driver’s seat, a panoramic sunroof, and second-row seats that can recline and slide, along with a centre armrest and 60:40 split-folding rear seats.Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.autox.com/news/car-news/kia-syros-exterior-and-interior-accessories-prices-listed-120133/">Kia Syros Exterior and Interior Accessories Prices Listed</a>For safety, it offers parking sensors, electronic stability control (ESC), six airbags, Level 2 ADAS, and a 360-degree camera.

Sonet, Seltos, Syros and More Help Kia India Record 19.3% YoY Sales Growth in March

The Kia Sonet was the top performer, making up 30% of total sales, while the Seltos, Carens, and Syros contributed 26%, 22%, and 20%, respectively.

On paper, the Kia Syros and Sonet seem to be two peas in a pod. You see, they are cut from the same cloth – they are both sub-4 metre vehicles, powered by the same set of petrol and diesel engines, with prices that are strikingly close. Yet Kia claims that these siblings are poles apart, each designed for distinctly different sets of buyers. Is it really the case, or is it just a clever marketing spin to lure more customers into the Kia fold? Well, there is only one way to find out – a head-to-head comparison test.

<h2>Different Folks, Different Strokes</h2>

At 3,995mm, the Syros and Sonet are identical in length – but that’s where the similarities end in terms of dimensions. The Syros is not only taller (1,680mm vs 1,642mm) and wider (1,805mm vs 1,790mm) but also has a 50mm longer wheelbase (2,550mm vs 2,500mm). That said, you don’t need a ruler to see the differences between the two, for their outer appearances make it quite evident. The Syros is a classic case of form following function. It has a tall-boy design, an upright windshield, a large glass area, and short overhangs. People with keen eyes will also notice its shorter bonnet compared to that of the Sonet. The Syros’ boxy MPV-esque design comes across as oddball at first, but I personally feel that its quirky design works in its favour. With its EV9-inspired front fascia, ice-cube split-headlamps, large 17-inch alloy wheels (on top-spec versions), flush door handles, and a stubby rear end, the Syros exudes a funky charm that makes it stand apart.

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 <img src="https://images.autox.com/uploads/2025/03/1742792778769-g0ym-Kia-Syros-vs-Kia-Sonet-Rear-Static.webp" alt="Kia Syros vs Kia Sonet-Rear-Static.jpg" style="width: 100%; height: auto;">
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The Sonet, on the other hand, is a real looker. Its aggressive styling – featuring a tiger-nose grille, jaw-shaped LED headlamps, and an overall cohesive and muscular design – makes it unmistakably imposing. Even though the Syros is the wider of the two, it’s the Sonet that looks bigger from the front and commands more attention. It’s fair to say that the Sonet has a more pronounced SUV presence than the Syros. All in all, in terms of aesthetics, the Sonet’s aggressive styling is likely to appeal to a larger audience than the Syros’s quirky design.

<h2>Generation Gap</h2>

It is when you step inside the Syros that you realise that it has redefined the game for compact SUVs and how! The interior is the Syros’ party piece, and it’s clearly a level above the Sonet’s in all the departments. What’s more, it’s a completely new design, and the cabin is kitted out with big screens, segment-first creature comforts, and new-age gadgets, along with a heck of a lot of space. The main highlight here is its 30-inch ‘Trinity’ display, which seamlessly integrates a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, a 5-inch touchscreen for temperature controls, and a 12.3-inch digital driver display. Not only does this large slab of screen offer superior touch response and display quality than the Sonet’s 10.25-inch touchscreen, but it also comes with wireless connectivity for Android Auto and Apple Carplay – a feature missing in the top-spec versions of the Sonet. It’s fair to conclude that the technology in the Syros is a generation ahead of the Sonet.

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 <img src="https://images.autox.com/uploads/2025/03/1742792825542-bw50-Kia-Syros-Rear-Seat-Space.webp" alt="Kia Syros-Rear-Seat-Space.jpg" style="width: 100%; height: auto;">
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However, there’s no denying that some might feel that the sheer number of features in the Syros borders on overkill. The chunky twin-spoke ‘squircle’ steering wheel – which looks good and is great to hold – but with one too many buttons can take some time to get used to. Additionally, the middle screen for AC controls is a bit fidgety to use and can be distracting because of its placement. Thankfully, there are big quick-access buttons on the lower part of the dash for climate controls.

Among other highlights, the Syros comes with four interior colour / upholstery options – the top-end version has a light grey theme with orange accents. Be it the quality of stitching or the general fit and finish of the cabin, the Syros feels a level above the Sonet. Both SUVs get front ventilated seats, a 360-degree camera, and an electrically adjustable driver’s seat, but again the Syros offers a lot of extra niceties, including an electric parking brake, Level 2 ADAS (vs Level 1 in the Sonet), and a dual-pane panoramic sunroof. Plus, thanks to Kia Connect 2.0, the Syros is also capable of receiving OTA updates, along with an onboard diagnostics tool.

<h2>Backbenchers’ Delight</h2>

Experience the rear seats of the Syros and Sonet back-to-back, and it won’t take a genius to notice that the newcomer has a distinct advantage over the older model. While the Sonet’s rear bench is tight, cramped, and claustrophobic like a studio apartment, the Syros’s rear seats feel like a penthouse! Thanks to the extra 50mm in its wheelbase and clever space management, the Syros not only has substantially more legroom than the Sonet but can also give its bigger bro Seltos a run for its money in this regard. Not to mention, given its tall-boy design, you get acres of headroom, and the large windows and panoramic sunroof give the cabin an airier feel compared to the dark-themed interior of the Sonet Xline. The Sonet does get two USB Type-C ports, a smart air purifier, and window blinds just like the Syros, though.

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 <img src="https://images.autox.com/uploads/2025/03/1742792890703-yrcr-Kia-Sonet-Rear-Seat-Space.webp" alt="Kia Sonet-Rear-Seat-Space.jpg" style="width: 100%; height: auto;">
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The Syros, on the other hand, has another ace up its sleeve in terms of making life comfortable for rear occupants – its rear seats can recline and slide forward and backwards, and they also get ventilation, but it’s only available on the base and not the seat-back. Another area where the Syros has an edge over its sibling is in terms of boot space – 465 litres vs 385 litres. The catch here is that the full 465 litres are available only when the rear seats are in the forward-most position, otherwise, the boot space drops to 390 litres.

<h2>Two Peas in a Pod</h2>

The Sonet is offered with three engine options – a 1.2-litre, four-cylinder, naturally-aspirated petrol, a 1.0-litre three-cylinder, turbo-petrol, and a 1.5-litre four-cylinder, diesel engine. Barring the 1.2-litre petrol engine, the Syros shares the other two powertrains with the Sonet. While the Syros’ diesel version gets the same 6-speed auto and 6-speed manual as the Sonet, its turbo petrol version gets a 6-speed manual transmission, along with a 7-speed DCT instead of a 5-speed iMT (clutch-less manual). Now, my guess is that Kia has done this to price the lower variant of the Syros competitively vis-à-vis the Sonet. That said, on this occasion, we compared the diesel AT versions of both.

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 <img src="https://images.autox.com/uploads/2025/03/1742792890703-yrcr-Kia-Sonet-Rear-Seat-Space.webp" alt="Kia Sonet-Rear-Seat-Space.jpg" style="width: 100%; height: auto;">
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The 1.5-litre diesel mill has proven its mettle in the Sonet, Seltos, Hyundai Venue, and Creta over the years, and it performs just as capably in its latest application. The oil burner offers stellar driveability and offers strong and flexible performance in all driving conditions. The diesel engine has oodles of torque at low and mid rpm, and thanks to the shorter gear ratios of the automatic transmission, this drivetrain masks its turbo lag quite well. In daily driving, it’s seamless and easygoing, and the grunt this engine offers is thoroughly enjoyable.

That said, being a diesel, this engine does feel a bit flat at higher revs – 4,000rpm and above – and also tends to get noisy and laborious. Not to mention, during cold starts, you hear typical diesel clatter in both vehicles. However, we found the NVH levels to be on the higher side in the Sonet as compared to the Syros – both at idle and on the move. So, while there’s hardly any difference in terms of performance and even fuel efficiency between the two vehicles, the Syros definitely has an edge in terms of cabin refinement and noise insulation.

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In terms of ride and handling, the Syros and Sonet are markedly different. While the Sonet’s ride is firm and crashy almost all the time, the Syros feels more absorbent and mature in the way it handles bad and broken roads. That said, it’s not exactly plush or soft – it’s got a firm edge as well – something that’s quite evident at low speeds.

The Sonet, however, is clearly the better- and sharper-handling compact SUV of the two. Its steering has more heft and offers more feedback than the Syros’ wheel, which is light and effortless and seems to be tuned for an easy-going driver instead of an enthusiast. That said, neither vehicle is meant to be hustled around corners, especially their nose-heavy diesel versions. Long story short, they both offer predictable and neutral handling without feeling sloppy.

<h2>Verdict</h2>

As it turns out, the Syros and Sonet are worlds apart indeed. Sure, they both compete in the same sub-4m SUV segment, but they have their own areas of expertise. For instance, the Syros seems to have been designed to address every possible deal-breaking issue that one could find in the Sonet or any other sub-4m compact SUV. As a result, it has more space, more creature comforts, and more practicality to offer. However, in its quest to become more complete, the Syros seems to have sacrificed some of the aggression typical of an SUV. And that’s that, really.

If you care about practicality and space more than anything else but don’t quite have the budget to consider the Seltos or Creta, the Syros makes for a compelling choice. On the other hand, if you’re young and hip and don’t have kids or ageing parents to haul around, the Sonet is likely to tickle your fancy much more. All in all, when you step into a Kia showroom for a compact SUV, you now have two polar opposite interpretations of the same concept – each meeting different needs. More than a family feud, this rivalry seems to be the case of keeping it all in the family.


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It’s fair to say that the Sonet has a more pronounced SUV presence than the Syros
While the Sonet’s suspension feels firm all the time, the Syros’ ride quality is relatively more absorbent


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Engine: 1,493cc, 4-cylinder

Transmission: 6-speed AT FWD

Power: 114bhp 

Torque: 250Nm

Fuel: Diesel
 
Price: ₹17.80 Lakh Ex showroom

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Engine: 1,493cc, 4-cylinder

Transmission: 6-speed AT FWD

Power: 114bhp 

Torque: 250Nm

Fuel: Diesel
 
Price: ₹15.77 Lakh Ex showroom

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Kia Syros vs Kia Sonet Comparison Review

With the arrival of the Syros, Kia seems to have put one of its own under threat. Is that really the case, or can the Sonet hold its own?

<a href="https://www.autox.com/new-cars/kia/">Kia India</a> has announced a price hike across its product lineup, set to take effect from April 2025. Popular models like the <a href="https://www.autox.com/new-cars/kia/seltos/">Seltos</a>, <a href="https://www.autox.com/new-cars/kia/sonet/">Sonet</a>, and the recently launched <a href="https://www.autox.com/new-cars/kia/syros/">Syros</a> will see an increase of up to 3% in their prices. The company attributes this adjustment to&nbsp;rising commodity prices and escalating supply chain-related costs. While the exact revised prices will be disclosed closer to the implementation date, buyers planning to purchase a Kia vehicle can still take advantage of current pricing until the end of March. This price revision follows similar hikes by automakers like Tata Motors and Maruti Suzuki. With demand for Kia’s SUVs remaining strong, prospective buyers may consider finalising their purchases before the new rates come into effect next month.<h2>What Kia Has to Say</h2>Commenting on the price adjustment, Hardeep Singh Brar, Sr. Vice President, – Sales and Marketing, Kia India said, 'As a brand committed to providing exceptional value and quality to our customers, we have always strived to offer the best vehicles at competitive prices. However, due to the rising costs of commodities and input materials, we will be increasing up to a 3% price hike across all Kia models, effective from 1st April 2025. While we understand that price adjustments can be challenging, this decision has been made to ensure we can continue delivering the high-quality, technologically advanced vehicles that our customers expect from Kia. To minimise the impact on our customers, Kia is absorbing a significant portion of the increased costs, ensuring that the price adjustment remains as manageable as possible for our valued customers.'Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.autox.com/news/car-news/kia-syros-exterior-and-interior-accessories-prices-listed-120133/">Kia Syros Exterior and Interior Accessories Prices Listed</a>As mentioned before, the price hike announcement from Kia India follows a similar trend in the industry. Tata Motors recently disclosed plans to increase prices by up to 2% across its passenger vehicle (PV) lineup, whereas Maruti Suzuki has already implemented a price revision of up to 4%. These price adjustments are primarily driven by rising production expenses and fluctuating market conditions, making vehicle purchases costlier in the near future.Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.autox.com/news/car-news/kia-carens-mpv-crosses-2-lakh-unit-sales-milestone-in-india-top-variants-account-for-24-of-the-demand-120116/">Kia Carens MPV Crosses 2 Lakh Unit Sales Milestone in India; Top Variants Account for 24% of the Demand</a> <h2>Kia India Model Range</h2>Notably, the South Korean carmaker offers a diverse range of vehicles in India, covering multiple segments with models such as the Seltos, Syros, Carens, and Sonet.&nbsp;The brand also sells the premium <a href="https://www.autox.com/new-cars/kia/carnival/">Carnival MPV</a>, while its electric vehicle lineup includes the likes of the <a href="https://www.autox.com/new-cars/kia/ev6/">EV6</a> and <a href="https://www.autox.com/new-cars/kia/ev9/">EV9</a>, reinforcing its presence in the EV market.

Kia Seltos, Sonet, Syros, and More to Get Costlier by up to 3% from April

Kia India attributes the latest price adjustment to rising commodity prices as well as escalating supply chain-related costs.

‘So, why would anyone buy a diesel engine now?’ asked a friend of mine after I drove him around in our <a href="https://www.autox.com/new-cars/kia/sonet/">Kia Sonet</a> long-term. He had a fair point. Diesel engines are on their way out, and with the increasingly stricter emission norms, they may not last for very long on the market. So, circling back to the original question, why would someone in their right mind buy a diesel car? Efficiency and performance. As simple as that. This became quite evident to me when I took the Sonet out on a long trip last month. 
There’s no fuel type that can match the efficiency and ease-of-use factor of diesel. The Sonet’s 1.5 diesel AT, for instance, is an absolute peach when you’re doing long distances. It returned a spectacular 15km/l on an approximately 500km road trip to the hills in mixed driving conditions. This included cruising at triple-digit speeds on highways, spirited driving in the mountains, getting stuck in towns, etc. What’s more, the performance isn’t a letdown in any way. The diesel engine is frugal and offers strong performance in all driving conditions. Whether it’s petrol, hybrid, or electric – none can match the range of abilities that diesel offers on long journeys. 
That said, in some areas, diesel isn’t perfect. The refinement levels aren’t as good – especially in the Sonet – and when pushed hard, the engine feels a bit strained. Plus, with strict emission norms, the low- and mid-range punch that older diesel engines were known for has somewhat dulled. That said, a diesel vehicle still makes a lot of sense for long-distance trips.Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.autox.com/long-term-reports/kia-sonet-long-term-review-january-2025-report-119816/" target="_blank">Kia Sonet Long Term Review, January 2025 Report </a>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.autox.com/news/car-news/kia-syros-vs-kia-sonet-spec-comparison-whats-different-119367/" target="_blank">Kia Syros vs Kia Sonet Spec Comparison - What's Different? </a> 
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When it came: December 2024
 Current odo reading: 14,768km 
Mileage this month: 902km
Fuel efficiency: 15km/l
What’s good: Efficiency &amp; performance
What’s not: High NVH 


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Kia Sonet Long Term Review, February 2025 Report

The Kia Sonet’s 1.5 diesel AT is a peach over long distances. It returned a spectacular 15km/l on an approximately 500km road trip to the hills in mixed driving conditions.

You wait ages for a bus and then two come along at once! I’m sure you have heard of this phrase before, or may even have experienced something similar in real life. That’s pretty much what happened last month at autoX. After what felt like an eternity, we finally got a diesel vehicle in our fleet – the Tata Safari AT – in November, and just a few weeks later, we had the Kia Sonet Diesel AT arrive in our office. It’s as if we were back in the good old days. Anyway, moving on to the present, it seems like diesel cars aren’t the future, meaning the ones we have with us right now are very likely the last of their kind. So, let’s just enjoy their company while we can, I guess…
First things first, I’ve a soft spot for the Sonet because back in 2021 when the COVID-19 pandemic was at its zenith, I had a Sonet diesel AT as my long termer. It wasn’t just a fantastic car, but it also served up as a trusty companion in those grim times. Three years on, the Sonet has received a thorough makeover but, thankfully, under the hood it’s more or less the same stuff. So, for me, it was like hanging out with an old friend.
Talking about the changes, I have to say that Kia has done a phenomenal job with the Sonet facelift. Even though it’s the same old sub-4m compact-SUV, the new design elements make it look wider and more intimidating, especially the new L-shaped LED headlamps. To be honest, it looks so similar to the Seltos that I believe Kia missed a trick by not calling it the Sentos.
Jokes aside, our long-term Sonet is the X-Line version, meaning it gets the sporty matte grey paint finish. Now while matte paint is hard to maintain from a owner’s perspective, I wouldn’t have my Sonet any other way. To my eyes, it looks spectacular in that shade. Among other things that I liked, the interior, of course. It’s beautifully crafted, and <a href="https://www.autox.com/car-reviews/2023-kia-sonet-review-still-numero-uno-115812/" target="_blank">the Sonet is loaded to the gills with features</a>. Coming to the diesel AT, it’s a torque monster and the six-speed transmission is a work of art. The engine and gearbox complement each other beautifully, making for an effortless drive in the city. It’s also remarkably efficient, which is expected. However, if there’s one thing that I am not a fan of, it’s the diesel clatter, especially during cold starts. For the first 10-15 minutes of my commute, the drivetrain feels a bit agricultural. But, yes, once it’s warmed up and you’re riding that wave of diesel torque, all’s well.Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.autox.com/car-news/sonet-seltos-carens-and-more-to-become-expensive-by-up-to-2-in-january-2025-119267/" target="_blank">Sonet, Seltos, Carens and More to Become Expensive by up to 2% in January 2025 </a>

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When it came: December 2024
 Current odo reading: 13,866km 
Mileage this month: 546km
Fuel efficiency: 15km/l
What’s good: Diesel AT drivetrain
What’s not: Cold start clatter 
 


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Kia Sonet Long Term Review, January 2025 Report

While the matte paint you see on our long-term unit can hard to maintain from a owner’s perspective, I wouldn’t have my Kia Sonet any other way.

Top 5 SUVs Under Rs 15 Lakh

Kia India sold 2.55 lakh units in 2024,&nbsp;registering a 6% increase over the previous year's 2.41 lakh units.&nbsp;The <a href="https://www.autox.com/new-cars/kia/sonet/">Sonet</a> remained the top seller with 1.02 lakh units sold, followed by the <a href="https://www.autox.com/new-cars/kia/seltos/">Seltos</a> and the <a href="https://www.autox.com/new-cars/kia/carens/">Carens</a>.&nbsp;The recently launched Carnival Limousine also saw strong demand with 563 units sold in just two months.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.autox.com/new-cars/kia/">Kia</a> also exported 25,404 units in 2024, showcasing its global reach.&nbsp;To expand its network, Kia India opened 126 new dealerships and 36 Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) outlets,&nbsp;bringing the total number of touchpoints to 700, spanning across 301 cities nationwide.

Commenting on the sales, Mr. Hardeep Singh Brar, Senior Vice President&nbsp;and Head of Sales and Marketing at Kia India, said, ‘2024 has been a defining&nbsp;and Head of Sales and Marketing at Kia India, said, ‘2024 has been a defining one for Kia India. Our focus on ensuring the timely delivery of our vehicles has not only allowed customers&nbsp;to enjoy their favourite Kia models but also strengthened our foundation for future growth.’

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.autox.com/news/car-news/kia-syros-bookings-commence-in-india-prices-to-be-revealed-on-february-1-119463/">Kia Syros Bookings Commence in India; Prices to be Revealed on February 1</a>

He further added ‘Expanding our touchpoints across the country is not just a strategy for immediate gains—it’s a long-term investment in building customer trust and expanding our reach.&nbsp;As we move into 2025, we are excited about the upcoming launch of the Syros,&nbsp;which promises to redefine the Indian automotive landscape. With this, we will set new industry&nbsp;benchmarks and reinforce our leadership position in the market.’&nbsp;

<h2>Kia Syros India Launch Soon</h2>

<img alt="Kia Syros" src="/uploads/2024/12/Kia-Syros-5-.jpg" style="width: 1280px; height: 720px;" />

Kia will reveal the prices for the eagerly awaited Syros SUV on February 1, 2025.&nbsp;The Syros will be available with a 1.0-litre turbo-petrol engine (118bhp/172Nm)&nbsp;and a 1.5-litre diesel engine (116bhp/250Nm). Transmission options include a 6-speed manual, 6-speed automatic,&nbsp;and 7-speed DCT. The SUV is available in six variants—HTK, HTK (O), HTK+, HTX, HTX+, and HTX+ (O)—and eight&nbsp;monotone colours (Pewter Olive, Aurora Black Pearl, Frost Blue, Intense Red,&nbsp;Gravity Grey, Imperial Blue, Sparkling Silver, and Glacier White Pearl).

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.autox.com/news/car-news/kia-syros-htk-htk-htx-htx-o-and-more-variants-explained-whats-different-119390/">Kia Syros HTK, HTK+, HTX, HTX+ (O) and More Variants Explained: What's Different?</a>

The SUV is packed with advanced features such as a two-spoke steering wheel,&nbsp;a pair of 12.3-inch screens—one for infotainment and the other&nbsp;for the driver's digital display, and a 5-inch screen situated between&nbsp;the two main displays for climate control, a premium Harman Kardon sound system with eight speakers, ventilated front and rear seats, a four-way powered driver's seat, dual-zone air conditioning, and a panoramic sunroof.

Sonet, Seltos, Carens Help Kia India Register 6% Sales Growth in 2024

The Kia Sonet remained the top seller in 2024 with 1.02 lakh units sold. It was followed by the Seltos, Carens, and the Carnival.

As 2024 draws to a close, it is time to look back at the standout SUVs that made waves this year. The SUV segment continued its dominance, with manufacturers introducing models that combined innovation, performance, and versatility. Among the year’s highlights are the Hyundai Creta Facelift, which brought a refreshed design and enhanced features, and the rugged Mahindra Thar Roxx, a favourite among adventure seekers. The sleek and modern Tata Curvv also captured attention with its futuristic styling. These models, along with others, set benchmarks in their respective categories, showcasing the evolving preferences of buyers. In this roundup, we explore the top five SUVs of 2024, reflecting on what made them the year’s most noteworthy launches.

<h2>Hyundai Creta Facelift</h2>

<a href="https://www.autox.com/new-cars/hyundai/">Hyundai</a> has significantly redesigned the <a href="https://www.autox.com/new-cars/hyundai/creta/">Creta</a>, showcasing a boxier aesthetic and&nbsp;refined, feature-rich interior. The updated model's ex-showroom price bracket ranges from Rs 11 lakh to Rs 20.30 lakh.&nbsp;The Creta has three engine options: a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated (NA) petrol, a 1.5-litre diesel, and a new 1.5-litre turbo-petrol. The NA petrol version delivers 144Nm and 113bhp, while the diesel unit generates 114bhp and 250Nm. The new turbo-petrol, on the other hand, produces 158bhp and 253Nm. The gearbox choices include a six-speed MT, six-speed AT, iMT, CVT (iVT), and a seven-speed DCT.

In terms of features, the Creta SUV has front-ventilated seats, a 360-degree camera, drive modes, an electronic parking brake, an 8-speaker Bose audio system, an electronic stability program (ESP), a tyre pressure monitoring system, a leatherette-wrapped gear shifter, a flat-bottom steering wheel, ambient lighting, a panoramic sunroof, and over seventy connected car features.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.autox.com/reviews/car-reviews/2024-hyundai-creta-review-sands-of-time-115877/">2024 Hyundai Creta Review: Sands of Time</a>

<h2>Mahindra Thar Roxx</h2>

The <a href="https://www.autox.com/new-cars/mahindra/thar-roxx/">Mahindra Thar Roxx</a> was introduced to the Indian market in August this year, boasting a distinctive design that includes LED headlights with C-shaped DRLs, a body-coloured six-slat grille, robust bumpers, rear door-mounted handles, 19-inch dual-tone alloy wheels, a tailgate-mounted spare tire, circular fog lamps, and rectangular LED taillights. The price starts at Rs 12.99 lakh and goes up to Rs 22.49 lakh, ex-showroom.

<img alt="Mahindra Thar Roxx " src="/uploads/2024/10/Mahindra-Thar-Roxx-3-.jpg" style="width: 1280px; height: 720px;" />

Buyers can choose between a 2.0-litre mStallion turbo-petrol engine or a 2.2-litre mHawk diesel engine. Transmission options consist of a six-speed manual and a six-speed torque converter automatic. While the petrol variant is rear-wheel drive only, the diesel model offers the added advantage of a 4x4 drivetrain with a low-range transfer case, enhancing its off-road performance.

<h2>Tata Curvv</h2>

<a href="https://www.autox.com/new-cars/tata/">Tata Motors</a> introduced the <a href="https://www.autox.com/new-cars/tata/curvv/">Curvv</a> in an all-electric variant, followed by an internal combustion engine (ICE) version. The EV is priced between Rs 17.49 lakh and Rs 21.99 lakh, with all prices being ex-showroom.

<img alt="Tata Curvv" height="720" src="/uploads/2024/11/Tata-Curvv.jpg" width="1280" />

The Tata Curvv ICE comes with three engine options: the newly developed 1.2-litre direct-injection turbo-petrol (Hyperion), the 1.2-litre turbo-petrol (Revotron), and the 1.5-litre diesel. The Hyperion engine delivers 123bhp at 5,000rpm and 225Nm of torque between 1,700 and 3,500rpm. The Revotron and diesel engines also featured in the Nexon, produce 118bhp and 170Nm (turbo-petrol) and 116bhp and 260Nm (diesel). Transmission options include a standard six-speed manual and an optional seven-speed dual-clutch automatic.

The EV variant offers two battery configurations: a 40.5kWh pack for the lower trims and a 55kWh pack for the higher variants. Both setups power a 165bhp electric motor, enabling the <a href="https://www.autox.com/new-cars/tata/curvv-ev/">Curvv EV</a> to achieve 0-100km/h in 8.6 seconds and reach a top speed of 160km/h.

<h2>Skoda Kylaq</h2>

The <a href="https://www.autox.com/new-cars/skoda/kylaq/">Skoda Kylaq</a> signaled Skoda's debut in India's highly competitive subcompact SUV market. Launched last month at Rs 7.89 lakh (ex-showroom), it showcased the brand's new Modern Solid design philosophy.&nbsp;The Kylaq has a 1.0-litre TSI engine that pumps out 115bhp and 178Nm, paired with either a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission. It boasts a top speed of 188km/h and a 0 to 100km/h sprint time of 10.5 seconds with the manual gearbox.

<img alt="Skoda Kylaq Front " src="/uploads/2024/11/Skoda-Kylaq-Front-Three-Quarter.jpg" style="width: 1280px; height: 720px;" />

The car is equipped with various comfort-focused features, such as a high-quality sound system, keyless entry, ambient lighting, ventilated and adjustable front seats, a cooled glovebox, and cupholders. However, the availability of these features may differ across variants.

<h2>New Kia Sonet</h2>

<img alt="Kia Sonet" height="720" src="/uploads/2024/05/SONET-21-1.jpg" width="1280" />

Launched in January, the SUV currently starts at Rs 8 lakh (ex-showroom) for the entry-level HTE 1.2 Petrol MT and goes up to Rs 15.77 lakh (ex-showroom) for the top-spec X-Line 1.5 Diesel AT.&nbsp;The <a href="https://www.autox.com/new-cars/kia/sonet/">Sonet</a> GTX is available with two powertrain options: a 1.0-litre turbo-petrol paired with a DCT and a 1.5-litre diesel mated to an automatic transmission. The turbo-petrol engine delivers 118bhp and 172Nm of torque, while the diesel produces 114bhp and 250Nm of torque.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.autox.com/reviews/car-reviews/mahindra-thar-roxx-diesel-mt-review-118110/">Mahindra Thar Roxx Diesel MT Review: The 5-door SUV to Buy?</a>

The SUV boasts features such as a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, ventilated front seats, automatic climate control, six airbags, a 4-way electrically adjustable driver’s seat, wireless phone charging, electronic stability control (ESC), connected car technology, and a tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS). Additionally, it offers advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) like blind spot monitoring, lane-keep assist, and forward collision warning.

Top 5 SUVs of 2024: Hyundai Creta Facelift, Mahindra Thar Roxx, Tata Curvv and More

In this roundup, we explore the top five SUVs of 2024, reflecting on what made them the year’s most noteworthy launches.

Get the latest updates on the Kia Sonet: Check out the new launch details, compare variants and alternatives, read expert reviews, and find updated pricing information.

Kia Sonet