Kia India has expanded the automatic gearbox options on the Kia Sonet by introducing more affordable variants to its lineup. With the update, buyers can now opt for automatic transmissions from the lower trims, making the Sonet one of the most accessible automatic SUVs in its segment.On the diesel side, the Sonata now gets a new HTE(O) variant with a 6-speed torque converter automatic gearbox, priced at Rs 9.77 lakh, ex-showroom. The diesel engine is the familiar 1.5 liter unit that produces 116 hp of power and 250 Nm of torque. The diesel automatic version delivers an ARAI rated fuel efficiency of 18.6 kmpl, while the manual diesel variant claims 22.3 kmpl.For petrol buyers, Kia has introduced a new HTK(O) variant equipped with a 7-speed DCT, priced at Rs 9,89,900, ex-showroom. This variant is powered by a 1.0-litre turbo-petrol engine that produces 120 hp and 172 Nm of peak torque. The same gearbox is also available in the HTK+(O) trim. With this move, Sonet becomes the first model in its segment to offer a 7-speed DCT automatic transmission at a price below Rs 10 lakh.
Along with various changes, the company has also introduced a new ‘Magma Red’ color option for the compact SUV.The Sonnet continues to be offered with a choice of three engines. These include a 1.2-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine that produces 83 hp and 115 Nm of torque, mated to a 5-speed manual gearbox. Meanwhile, the 1.0-litre turbo-petrol and 1.5-litre diesel engines are the only ones to offer automatic gearbox options.Currently, the Sonet is priced in India at Rs 7.30 lakh, ex-showroom and competes with rivals like the Mahindra XUV 3XO, Hyundai Venue, Maruti Suzuki Brezza, Tata Nexon and Skoda Kylaq in the highly competitive sub-4 meter SUV segment.
