Kia Sonet to Launch in India by Diwali 2020, Will Rival Maruti Vitara Brezza

Kia Motors is enjoying massive success in the global market thanks to its wildly popular models like Sorento, Soul, Telluride, Seed or the Stinger four-door coupe. Even in India, the carmaker hasn't taken much time to become one of the biggest car manufacturers in the country. Its currently lineup includes only two models. However, both these vehicles have achieved stellar success within no time. The Seltos, which became the company's maiden product for India, has been a great hit with small SUV buyers, while the highly luxurious Carnival has created a niche for itself in the premium MPV market. However, the company is no mood to rest on its laurels. Next, it plans to launch a Maruti Vitara Brezza-rivalling model in the form of the Kia Sonet. 

The Kia Sonet made its global debut at the Auto Expo 2020 in its production format. The design study will spawn a Maruti Vitara Brezza-rivalling sub-4-metre compact SUV

Showcased earlier this year at the Auto Expo 2020, the new SUV was amongst a host of newly introduced vehicles on display at Kia's stand. The upcoming model will share its platform and engines with the Hyundai Venue. However, it will offer a bolder design and probably a more premium cabin, which will feature bits like a high-end Bose-sourced audio system. It will also offer UVO connected apps, cooled glove compartment, multi-function steering wheel, automatic climate control and the likes. 

 The Kia Sonet will share its engine-transmission options with the Hyundai Venue, which means it will be sold with two petrol and a diesel motor. The base petrol engine will displace 1.2-litre and become the smallest motor in the company's portfolio. It will be available with a 5-speed manual and an automated manual transmission. Even the diesel variant, which will feature a 1.5-litre unit, could be sold with an optional AMT. Of course, the performance-focussed 1.0-litre turbo-petrol motor will be available with dual-clutch automatic transmission. Other than this, the SUV will even get a stiffer suspension than the Venue, which will further aid its performance credentials. 

Like we said, the new SUV will arrive in India just in time for this year's festive season. Once launched, the Kia Sonet will stack up against the likes of Maruti Brezza, Hyundai Venue, Mahindra XUV300, Ford Ecosport and Tata Nexon. Given the previous successful launches of the Seltos and Carnival, Kia Motors would have high hopes from its upcoming sub-4-meter SUV. The Sonet is expected to be priced from Rs 7 lakh to Rs 12 lakh mark.