Entry-level crossovers competing against the new Kia Sonet in South Africa

Kia has launched the updated Sonet crossover in South Africa, introducing a new flagship model in the process.

The series now comprises six units with prices ranging from R366,995 to R484,995.

As part of the facelift, the Sonet has received a new grille and front bumper, reworked headlights, and a singular taillight bar across the back.

The model line-up features LX, EX, and EX+ trims just like other Kia products, as well as a new range-topping SX specification that’s exclusive to the Sonet.

Standard equipment on the base LX includes 16-inch steel rims, automatic headlights, cloth/artificial leather seating, a multifunction steering wheel, an 8-inch infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, six speakers, hill assist, and a reverse camera.

The EX units also come with cruise control, a leather steering wheel and shifter, rear parking sensors, roof rails, LED daytime running lights, and auto-folding side mirrors.

Those who pick up the EX+ can expect a digital driver’s display and a larger touchscreen which clock in at 10.25 inches each, automatic aircon, artificial leather upholstery, and 16-inch alloy rims.

As for the new SX, it completes the list with a wireless charger, lane-follow assist, lane-keep assist, forward-collision assist, front parking sensors, keyless entry and start, LED headlights, and a drive mode selector with Normal, Eco, and Sport settings.

There are two engines to choose from, with all but one model featuring a 1.5-litre, naturally-aspirated petrol block with 85kW and 144Nm.

This powertrain connects to either a six-speed manual or a CVT gearbox, with fuel consumption ranging between 7.0-7.2l/100km.

There is also a more powerful 1.0-litre, turbo-petrol plant, which can only be found on the EX and produces 88kW and 172Nm.

It gets a unique seven-speed, dual-clutch automatic transmission which results in an average consumption of 6.0l/100km.

Each purchase of the new Sonet includes a 5-year/unlimited-kilometre warranty, 4-year/60,000km service plan, and 5-year/unlimited-kilometre roadside assistance.

Compact competition

These are the affordable crossovers competing against the updated Kia Sonet in South Africa.

Click on the underlined prices for more information.

Suzuki Fronx 1.5 GLX

• Starting price – R334,900
• Power – 77kW/138Nm
• Fuel consumption – 5.5l/100km

Nissan Magnite 1.0 Turbo Acenta Plus

• Starting price – R336,500
• Power – 74kW/160Nm
• Fuel consumption – 5.2l/100km

Haval Jolion 1.5T City

• Starting price – R345,950
• Power – 105kW/210Nm
• Fuel consumption – 7.8l/100km

Opel Crossland 1.2

• Starting price – R349,900
• Power – 60kW/118Nm
• Fuel consumption – 5.1l/100km

Chery Tiggo 4 Pro 1.5 Comfort

• Starting price – R355,900
• Power – 83kW/138Nm
• Fuel consumption – 6.8l/100km

Mahindra XUV300 1.2T W8

• Starting price – R358,099
• Power – 81kW/200Nm
• Fuel consumption – 6.1l/100km

Toyota Urban Cruiser 1.5 XR

• Starting price – R359,700
• Power – 77kW/138Nm
• Fuel consumption – 6.1l/100km

Omoda C5 1.5T 230T Style

• Starting price – R359,900
• Power – 115kW/230Nm
• Fuel consumption – 6.9l/100km

Honda Elevate 1.5 Comfort

• Starting price – R371,000
• Power – 89kW/145Nm
• Fuel consumption – 6.7l/100km

Hyundai Venue 1.0T Motion

• Starting price – R397,500
• Power – 88kW/172Nm
• Fuel consumption – 6.5l/100km

Renault Duster 1.5dCi Zen

• Starting price – R397,999
• Power – 66kW/210Nm
• Fuel consumption – 5.1l/100km

VW T-Cross 1.0TSI Comfortline

• Starting price – R401,600
• Power – 70kW/175Nm
• Fuel consumption – 4.8l/100km

Mazda CX-3 2.0 Active

• Starting price – R404,300
• Power – 115kW/206Nm
• Fuel consumption – 6.9l/100km

Mitsubishi ASX 2.0 ES

• Starting price – R409,990
• Power – 110kW/197Nm
• Fuel consumption – 7.5l/100km

BAIC Beijing X55 1.5T Dynamic

• Starting price – R429,900
• Power – 130kW/305Nm
• Fuel consumption – 7.2l/100km

Citroen C3 Aircross 1.2T Feel

• Starting price – R438,500
• Power – 81kW/205Nm
• Fuel consumption – 6.5l/100km

Proton X50 1.5T Standard

• Starting price – R449,900
• Power – 110kW/226Nm
• Fuel consumption – 6.5l/100km