Comparison: Kia Sonet 2023 Facelift vs Old Kia Sonet

After a series of spy images, test runs and teasers, Kia has finally unveiled the 2024 Kia Sonet facelift. With the new Sonet about to hit the streets, the compact SUV is sure to take Sonet’s legacy to a whole new level. If you are wondering how exactly the new facelift differs from the Sonet offered before, then here’s a detailed breakdown of all the changes the new Kia Sonet brings to the table. 

Kia Sonet Facelift vs Old Kia Sonet: Dimensions

As far as dimensions go, the head-on comparison above makes it clear that there has been no change in terms of dimensions. Both the pre- and post-facelift models of the Sonet have the exact same dimension, thereby carrying over the familiar Sonet silhouette. With that said, the all-new Kia Sonet continues to be a great compact SUV that offers ample boot space along with great ground clearance, a large wheelbase and balanced dimensions.

However, when it comes to overall looks, there’s a lot that’s changed. With a redesigned front fascia on offer, the new Kia Sonet comes with a reworked Tiger Nose Grille with chrome inserts, a new front bumper and a sharper headlamp cluster with integrated LED fog lights. Moving to the rear, the new Sonet brings in a full-length LED light strip with redesigned taillamps, that resemble the one offered on the Seltos facelift. Other than that, what’s changed are the redesigned alloys offered in different sizes based on the variant.  

Overall, when compared to the outgoing Kia Sonet, the new Kia Sonet facelift brings in a much more contemporary look, that is now more in line with Kia’s latest design language. 

Kia Sonet Facelift vs. Old Kia Sonet: Engine and Transmission

One look at the engine comparison above and you’ll realise that even though there hasn’t been any engine additions or improvements, there is still something new that the Kia Sonet Facelift offers. That is the 6-speed Manual Transmission that Kia has brought onboard for the 1.5-litre diesel powertrain with the Kia Sonet Facelift. Other than that, there is nothing that the new Kia Sonet brings on board. It carries forward the outgoing Sonet’s capable and power-packed engines that offer superb performance and exhilarating driving dynamics.

Kia Sonet Facelift vs. Old Kia Sonet: Features and Comfort

When it comes to the interiors and features, while the overall layout remains largely unchanged, there are still a few things that excite. The first noticeable change on the Kia Sonet Facelift is the new 10.25-inch touch infotainment system that goes well along with the new 10.25-inch fully digital instrument cluster that wasn’t offered on the pre-facelift models. Other changes onboard include voice-controlled powered windows with one touch-up-down, connected car tech with 70+ features and a 4-way power adjustable driver’s seat. Kia has also given the new Sonet 360-degree cameras with blind view monitor, all disc brakes and new traction modes for automatic trims that are a welcome upgrade over the outgoing model.

Interior colour themes onboard the Sonet facelift will now include semi-leatherette upholstery offered in an all-black option along with a classic black-beige combo. There is also a black-brown leatherette option, along with all-black leatherette and sage green leatherette upholstery.   

Overall, the new Kia Sonet Facelift comes forth as a modern package that now offers more alluring features than before. With the inclusion of features such as a 360-degree camera, 4-way power adjustable seats and voice-control power windows, the Sonet’s overall package has now become far more exciting. 

Kia Sonet Facelift vs. Old Kia Sonet: Safety Features

While the overall safety net of the Sonet remains largely the same, the new Kia Sonet Facelift does make the package a lot smarter. As showcased in the pre-launch teasers, the most significant addition to the all-new Kia Sonet is the Advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) that will bring onboard many advanced safety inclusions such as:

• Forward Collision Warning
• Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (Pedestrian, Car and Cyclists)
• Lane Departure Warning
• Lane Keeping Assist
• Lane Following Assist
• Leading Vehicle Departure Alert
• High Beam Assist and 
• Driver Attention Warning.

Moreover, when compared to the outgoing model, the new Sonet facelift now offers 15 safety features such as 6 airbags, tyre pressure monitoring, electronic stability control, hill assist, brake force assist, rear parking sensors, vehicle stability assistance etc. all as standard across all variants.

Thus, when compared to the outgoing model, the new Kia Sonet facelift offers much better safety, with both basic as well as advanced safety features offered as standard across all trims, with higher trims even bringing ADAS onboard.

Kia Sonet Facelift vs Old Kia Sonet: Price Comparison

While the price of the all-new Kia Sonet has not yet been revealed, considering the upgrades the facelift brings over the outgoing model, the price is sure to rise. At present, the Kia Sonet commands a price tag ranging between Rs. 7.79 to 14.98 Lakhs (Ex-Showroom). Based on analysis, it is anticipated that the new Kia Sonet Facelift might command a price tag that will range between Rs. 8 to 15 Lakhs (Ex-Showroom)

Kia Sonet Facelift vs. Old Kia Sonet: Summary

Be it the Kia Sonet Facelift or the Old Kia Sonet, both pre and post-facelift versions of the SUV offer a highly attractive package that has everything one needs, including features, comfort, performance and value. But by adding a bit of excitement through revamped looks, additional features, a diesel manual and a plethora of standard safety features, Kia has hit the bull’s eye with the Sonet Facelift. However, with a price reveal yet to come, how far will the Sonet facelift take the carmaker is something that is yet to be seen.