Kia Sonet Sub-4m SUV To Debut On August 7 2020

• Will be nearly identical to the near production Kia world debuted at the Auto Expo 2020.

• The cabin will feature a flat-bottom steering wheel, 10.25-inch infotainment system, a Bose sound system, climate control, and connected car technology among others.

• Will borrow its engines from the Venue, including the 1.0-litre turbo petrol with the new iMT (Intelligent Manual Transmission) option.

• Rivals will include the Hyundai Venue, Ford EcoSport, Tata Nexon and the Mahindra XUV300.

. The market launch of the Sonet is expected in September 2020.

The production-spec Sonet will be near identical to the one showcased at Auto Expo aside from subtle tweaks and a different set of alloy wheels that were spotted in. It essentially looks like a mini-Seltos with highlights such as a smaller version of Kia's trademark tiger nose grille paired with headlamps and swanky DRLs, an upright stance and squared-out wheel arches as well as connected tail lamps.

A of the cabin reveals that the Sonet could sport a similar aesthetic as the larger Seltos. Highlights include a long panoramic panel housing the Seltos-like 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system and driver's instrumentation. It also gets a flat bottom steering wheel, large central AC vents separated by an array of buttons and a black upholstery with silver accents and red stitching for the seats.

It will come equipped with features like a Bose sound system, climate control and connected car technology along with bits such as a wireless phone charger, cruise control, and keyless entry with push button stop-start also expected.

Under the hood, it is expected to share its engines with the Venue including the 120PS 1.0-litre T-GDI petrol engine. Transmission options could include a 7-speed DCT as well as a 6-speed iMT (clutchless manual) like in the Venue. The 1.5-litre diesel will also be part of the Sonnet's powertrain options. Entry-level petrol variants could do with the 1.2-litre naturally aspirated motor.

The Kia Sonet's pricing is likely to start from Rs 7.5 lakh (ex-showroom) onwards. Post its India launch, the Sonet will take on the likes of the.