Kia has launched their new Sonet SUV in South Africa, with prices starting at just under R265,000.
The SUV is built by Kia in India, and takes up the role of a “smart urban compact SUV”.
This marks Kia’s entry “into the burgeoning B-SUV segment in South Africa”, said the company.
“The all-new Sonet puts an exclamation point on our ambition to make Kia the brand of choice for trendy urbanites,” said Gary Scott, CEO of Kia South Africa.
“The Sonet fulfils an important role in Kia’s local line-up, and is well positioned to attract a large number of customers who value design, comfort, and quality.”
What you get
The Sonet range comes with a 1.5-litre MPI petrol engine that puts out 85kW and 144Nm.
Buyers then have a choice between a 6-speed manual gearbox or a continuously variable transmission (CVT).
“Two trim levels will be available with both transmission options,” said Kia.
The first is the entry-level LX derivative, which features:
- 8-inch infotainment display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support, and Bluetooth
- Air-conditioning
- Electric windows and mirrors
- Rear-view camera
- Combination artificial leather and cloth seat trim
The higher-end trim is called the EX, and add several features over the LX model.
These include:
- Rear park distance control
- Leather steering wheel
- 16-inch alloy wheels (compared to 15-inch steel wheels)
- Roof rails
- Front fog lights
Safety features
Kia also highlighted the safety features of the small SUV in its launch announcement, stating that customer safety is “an utmost priority” for the company.
“More than two-thirds of the Sonet’s body is made up of high-strength and advanced high-strength steel, creating a lightweight yet robust structure.”
This is complemented by the following safety features:
- Electronic stability control
- ABS with EBD
- Hill-start assist control
- Dual front airbags
Pricing
South African pricing for the Kia Sonet is listed below.
- Sonet 1.5 LX Manual – R264,995
- Sonet 1.5 LX CVT – R285,995
- Sonet 1.5 EX Manual – R284,995
- Sonet 1.5 EX CVT – R305,995
All models will receive an unlimited-kilometre, 5-year warranty – along with a 4-year/60,000km service plan.
“The all-new Sonet range is on sale across Kia South Africa’s national dealer network immediately,” said the company.
Kia Sonet – Photos
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