Kia Sonet 2025: In the ever-evolving world of compact SUVs, where bold design, cutting-edge features, and strong performance are non-negotiables, Kia has emerged as one of the leading contenders in India. The 2025 Kia Sonet is the latest refresh of this popular sub-4m SUV, and it brings a whole new level of energy to the segment. Stylish, tech-savvy, safe, and surprisingly fun to drive—this new Sonet is more than just a cosmetic update. It’s a statement on wheels, crafted for city dwellers, highway cruisers, and auto enthusiasts alike.
Whether you’re a young professional looking to make a first big purchase or a small family wanting something premium yet practical, the Sonet checks nearly every box. Let’s take a closer look at what makes the 2025 Kia Sonet such a standout.
A Fresh Design That Turns Heads
Kia has always prioritized design, and with the 2025 Sonet, that philosophy shines brighter than ever. At first glance, it’s clear this isn’t a minor facelift—it’s a bold evolution. The signature “Tiger Nose” grille now looks sharper and is framed by striking LED DRLs shaped like an ECG pulse, giving the SUV a distinct identity, especially at night.
The new alloy wheel designs, a sportier front bumper, and a sculpted bonnet give it a robust, almost aggressive stance. At the rear, a connected LED light bar, updated taillamps, and redesigned bumper elements add to its width and visual appeal. Even finer details like the faux skid plates and black cladding along the sides reinforce its SUV DNA. If you’re someone who values aesthetic edge as much as function, the Sonet is built to impress.
Read: Sculpted Sophistication: The All-New Honda City Turns Heads Again
Multiple Engine Choices for Every Kind of Driver
Under the hood, the Sonet continues to offer a diverse powertrain lineup, which is a rare strength in this segment. Here’s a quick breakdown:
- 1.2L Naturally Aspirated Petrol (83 PS): Ideal for city commuters and first-time car buyers.
- 1.0L Turbocharged Petrol (120 PS): For those who enjoy quick overtakes and sporty acceleration.
- 1.5L Diesel (115 PS): Offers excellent torque and mileage for long-distance highway users.
The variety doesn’t stop with engines. Kia also offers multiple transmission choices—from 5-speed and 6-speed manuals to the smart iMT (clutchless manual), 7-speed DCT (dual-clutch), and a proper 6-speed torque converter automatic.
The 1.0L turbo petrol with DCT is especially popular among driving enthusiasts for its brisk throttle response and smooth gearshifts. The diesel automatic, on the other hand, delivers a relaxed cruising experience with impressive fuel economy. Whatever your driving style or usage pattern, there’s a Sonet variant tailored to your needs.
Premium Interiors That Feel a Class Above
Step inside the Sonet, and you’ll immediately notice how far Kia has come in crafting a premium cabin experience. The dashboard design is clean yet modern, with a seamless blend of gloss black and brushed aluminum finishes. The dual-tone interiors on higher trims add a sense of luxury, while ambient lighting, ventilated front seats, and leatherette upholstery lift the in-cabin vibe.
Kia has also worked on improving rear seat comfort. The new Sonet offers better cushioning, rear AC vents, and ample legroom for adults. The boot space, too, is generous for weekend luggage or grocery runs, and the rear seats can be folded to increase flexibility.
From a driver’s perspective, the ergonomics are spot-on. All controls are within reach, visibility is great, and the flat-bottom steering wheel with mounted controls gives it a sporty touch.
Safety Now Comes Standard
Safety has taken a front seat in the 2025 Sonet, quite literally. One of the most talked-about upgrades is the inclusion of six airbags as standard across all variants—a move that many in the industry are likely to follow. But it doesn’t stop there.
Higher trims also offer Level 1 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), which include:
- Forward Collision Warning & Avoidance Assist
- Lane Departure Warning & Lane Keeping Assist
- Driver Attention Monitoring
- High Beam Assist
These systems provide active support during daily drives, especially in urban traffic and highway scenarios. Add to that features like ABS with EBD, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Hill Start Assist, tyre pressure monitoring system, and a 360-degree camera, and the Sonet becomes one of the safest compact SUVs currently available in India.
Tech That Elevates Every Journey
Tech-savvy buyers will find the Sonet an absolute treat. Taking center stage is the 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, now equipped with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The interface is smooth, intuitive, and responsive, while the integration of Kia’s UVO Connect connected-car tech brings a host of remote functions—start/stop the car, set climate control, check vehicle status, geo-fencing, and even voice commands in Indian languages.
The digital instrument cluster is crisp and customizable, displaying real-time data, navigation, and safety alerts. A Bose 7-speaker sound system, wireless charging pad, smart key with remote engine start, and auto-dimming IRVM are the icing on the cake.
Every element has been designed with the user in mind—whether you’re a tech enthusiast or someone who just wants everything to work, effortlessly.
Built for Urban Jungles and Highway Adventures
Driving the Sonet is an experience that balances comfort and confidence. The suspension setup is tuned to absorb typical Indian road conditions, from potholes to speed bumps, without unsettling passengers. At the same time, body roll is kept in check, allowing the Sonet to feel nimble around corners and stable at triple-digit speeds.
The steering is light and direct—perfect for city driving—but weighs up appropriately on highways. Braking is sharp and progressive, inspiring confidence in tight situations. NVH levels have also improved, especially in the diesel variant, making long journeys quieter and more pleasant.
Whether you’re tackling daily office traffic, weekend road trips, or quick dashes through twisty hill roads, the Sonet feels versatile and capable.
Where It Stands Among Rivals
The compact SUV segment is more competitive than ever, with heavyweights like the Hyundai Venue, Tata Nexon, Maruti Brezza, Mahindra XUV300, and recently, the updated Honda Elevate entering the fray. But the Sonet continues to differentiate itself with its premium build quality, long list of features, and versatile drivetrain options.
While Tata Nexon offers ruggedness and a bold design, and Brezza focuses on fuel efficiency and practicality, the Sonet strikes a perfect balance of looks, features, and fun, making it a top pick for urban buyers who want a bit of everything.
Final Verdict
The 2025 Kia Sonet isn’t just another refresh—it’s a redefinition of what a compact SUV can be. It doesn’t compromise on design, tech, or performance, and goes the extra mile with features that are often reserved for more expensive vehicles. With enhanced safety, exciting powertrains, a premium cabin, and connected car tech, it delivers exceptional value at every variant level.
Whether you’re drawn to it for the way it looks, the way it drives, or the sheer convenience it offers, the Sonet will likely exceed your expectations.
In short? If you’re looking for a subcompact SUV that feels anything but compact in its ambitions, the Kia Sonet 2025 should be high on your list.