Kia Sonet to go head-to-head with Toyota Raize, MG ZS
Kia Philippines launched its latest entry into the country’s crossover category — the Sonet.
With it, the Hyundai-owned South Korean carmaker looks to get a fair share of the competitive segment and even capture a new generation of customers. And it’s not difficult to see why the Ayala-led brand places confidence in its new offering.
At the fore, the range-topping Kia Sonet wears a modern and aggressive take on the brand’s iconic tiger-nose grille and is bordered by a cluster of lights with sleek daytime running lamps. Below is a grater-like meshwork surrounded by an imposing chin.
The side profile of the crossover is highlighted by an abundance of straight lines and sharp curves coupled with durable-looking claddings. The two-tone wheels add a dash of character to the already feisty model.
Its rear end flaunts a discreet spoiler, combination taillamps connected by a horizontal bar, and a rear bumper that echoes the styling of the Kia Sonet’s fascia.
The cabin of the Kia Sonet’s top-of-the-line model is packed with decent technological amenities.
Greeting the driver is a multi-functional steering wheel, seats with perforation, an armrest, and a shifter — all of which are wrapped in leather.
Past the aforementioned steering wheel is a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster accompanied by a similarly-sized (10.25-inch) infotainment system.
Other notable features in the cabin include a wireless charger, a push-start button, as well as dedicated air conditioning vents, USB type-C charging ports, and a pull-down armrest for the rear occupants.
Under the hood of the Kia Sonet is a 1.5-liter gasoline engine mated to a continuously variable transmission. It can dish out some 113 horsepower with 144 Newton-meters of torque.
The base variant is fitted with the same powerplant albeit with a six-speed manual gearbox.
The Kia Sonet is offered in four variants: LX M/T, LX A/T, EX A/T, and SX A/T. Below are their respective prices:
The Kia Sonet — which will replace the Stonic — will compete directly with the likes of the Toyota Raize and the MG ZS.
Photos from Juan Paulo Papa, Jirehl Kent Flores
Also read:
5 Kia models bag honors at 2023 Consumer Guide Automotive Best Buy Awards
Kia sells more than 2.6-M cars globally from Jan.-Sep. 2023
Kia EV9 to offer conditional Level 3 autonomous driving in select markets
Copyright © Carmudi 2014-2024. All Rights Reserved.
