KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- Kia Sonet clocks 4 lakh unit lifetime sales
- Includes both domestic and export numbers
- Comes with a diesel and a petrol engine option
The Kia Sonet was launched back in 2020 and since then, this compact SUV has clocked a lifetime sales of 4 lakh units sales. This includes both the domestic as well as export units. However, the petrol units have led the way, whereas trim-wise, the sunroof variants have been the star-sellers. Read on to find out some interesting facts that hint at a shift occurring in buying preferences, but before that make sure to join our 91Wheels WhatsApp Group community of petrolheads to never miss out on any updates from the automotive world.
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Kia Sonet Hits 4 Lakh Unit Sales Milestone: Sunroof And Petrol Mill Runs The Show
The Kia Sonet has become a major player for the automaker, capturing a significant 33.3% share of its domestic sales. Out of a staggering 4 lakh units sold globally, over 3.17 lakh found homes in India, with the remaining 85,814 reaching international markets. Breaking down domestic preferences, petrol variants proved more popular, accounting for 63% of sales, while diesel followed at 37%.
Interestingly, the convenience of automatic transmissions is gaining traction, with 28% of buyers opting for either the 7-speed dual-clutch in the 1.0L turbo-petrol or the 6-speed torque converter in the 1.5L diesel. The clutchless manual (iMT) also saw healthy adoption, contributing to 23% of sales. Another noteworthy trend is the growing demand for sunroofs, with a whopping 63% of buyers prioritizing this feature.
Kia Sonet: New Affordable Sunroof Variants Launched
Kia has expanded the accessibility of its Sonet model with the introduction of new mid-spec trims: HTE(O) and HTK(O), available in both diesel and petrol versions. Notably, the HTE(O) variant now features a sunroof, while the HTK(O) offers additional features like LED-connected taillamps, automatic climate control, and a rear defogger. This enhancement is aimed at making the sub-compact SUV even more appealing to a wider range of customers. These latest variants are anticipated to contribute positively to Kia's overall sales performance.
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Powertrain Options
The Kia Sonet offers a versatile lineup with three distinct engine choices. Firstly, there's a 1.2-liter NA petrol engine generating 83 PS, exclusively paired with a 5-speed manual transmission. Additionally, a 1.5-liter diesel engine producing 116 PS is available, coupled with options including a 6-speed manual, 6-speed IMT, and 6-speed torque converter automatic transmission. For those seeking a little more punch, there's the option of a 1.2-liter turbo petrol engine delivering 120 PS, mated to a 6-speed IMT or 7-speed DCT transmission.
The pricing of Kia Sonet starts at Rs. 7.99 lakhs ex-showroom. Meanwhile, it continues to rub shoulders with the likes of Hyundai Venue, Maruti Brezza, and other sub-4-meter SUVs.
Verdict
Kia has carved out a very important place in the SUV segment with both Seltos and Sonet compact SUVs. Where the sales milestone is a thing to rejoice for the brand, its analysis is even more intersting. It gives a bird's eye view on the choice patterns and to analyse how the market trends are shifting. What do you find the most intersting about this compact SUV? Do share your thoughts with us. We would love to hear from our readers.
