Bottom line: Kia may borrow Hyundai’s styling tricks to boost the Sonet’s lagging sales.
The compact SUV market is hotter than ever. Kia’s Sonet, once a top seller, has slipped behind rivals like the Tata Nexon, Hyundai Venue, and Maruti Brezza. Industry buzz says Kia is eyeing Hyundai’s recent updates as a shortcut to solve its biggest problem – dwindling demand.
Kia Sonet vs Hyundai Venue: Will Kia Copy Hyundai to Fix Its SUV Woes?
Image: Kia Sonet vs Hyundai Venue: Will Kia Copy Hyundai to Fix Its SUV Woes? – Performance Comparison and Specifications
Design & Looks
Recent Facelifts from Hyundai, especially the bold front grille and sleek LED headlamps on the Venue, have been well‑received. Kia’s next Sonet refresh could adopt a similar aggressive grille, sharper bumper lines, and a more aerodynamic silhouette. This visual alignment would not only modernise the Sonet but also create a family resemblance that appeals to buyers who like a cohesive brand look.
Performance & Mileage
The current Sonet offers three engine options: a 1.0‑litre turbo, a 1.2‑litre naturally aspirated, and a 1.5‑litre diesel. Fuel‑economy ranges from 17 km/l (diesel) to 20 km/l (petrol). Hyundai’s Venue, meanwhile, introduced a tuned 1.0‑litre turbo that squeezes out an extra 1–2 km/l and smoother torque delivery. By adopting Hyundai’s engine tuning or even sharing components, Kia could improve the Sonet’s mileage and refine its ride quality – two factors that directly influence purchase decisions.
Price & Rivals
Pricing is where the Sonet feels the heat. It starts at around ₹7.99 lakh, while the Venue undercuts it at ₹7.20 lakh, and the Nexon holds strong at ₹8.50 lakh with a stronger resale value. To stay competitive, Kia might need to trim the Sonet’s price or add more standard features. Adding Hyundai‑style tech – like a larger infotainment screen, wireless charging, and advanced driver‑assist aids – could justify a slight premium while still beating the Nexon on value.
| Engine | Mileage (km/l) | Price (₹ lakh) | Top Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.0 L Turbo Petrol | 20 | 7.99 |
|
| 1.2 L Petrol | 18 | 7.49 |
|
| 1.5 L Diesel | 17 | 8.29 |
|
FAQ
- What is the mileage of the Kia Sonet? The 1.0 L turbo petrol version delivers about 20 km/l, the 1.2 L petrol about 18 km/l, and the 1.5 L diesel around 17 km/l.
- Is the Kia Sonet worth buying against the Hyundai Venue? It depends on price and features. If Kia adds Hyundai‑style tech and keeps price competitive, the Sonet can still be a solid choice.
- Will a Hyundai‑inspired redesign boost Sonet sales? A fresher look and better fuel‑economy tweaks are likely to attract buyers who are currently leaning toward the Venue or Nexon.
What do you think – should Kia mirror Hyundai’s design to revive the Sonet? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
Source: Read Official News
