It's always been the shining star in its category. Maybe not in sheer numbers, perhaps not in terms of its value proposition, but the Sonet has consistently stood out as the most luxurious and impeccably finished vehicle in the compact SUV space. Kia has set out to lead the pack in 2024, and with a strategic approach, they've infused some of Seltos' premium features into the Sonet. Is it an improvement? I believe so.
The real challenge for testing these features came during the drive in Bhopal, with rains and heavy fog creating the perfect conditions. The ADAS functionalities, communicating lane markings and warning against lane departure or a slow vehicle ahead, proved effective. While these features may not be ideal for everyday driving conditions, they could be lifesaving during long drives or cautious trips through foggy terrains.
Despite the impressive feature additions, one puzzling decision was the scooped seats. While it aims to provide more cabin space, it results in a somewhat cramped interior, with the cushioning becoming less comfortable. This may be more noticeable for those with larger body frames.
Mechanically, not much has changed but the addition of rear disc brakes, which undoubtedly take the braking performance up a few notches, a considerable difference is felt as opposed to the older Sonet.
For those who understand that bigger isn't always better, this is the best vehicle money can buy. It not only boasts the most extensive feature set, including integrated rear sunblinds, an air purifier, 70 connected features, and the largest boot space in the segment but also ensures you're ready for a road trip adventure.
The major highlight is the addition of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) features. Although the Venue took the lead in introducing advanced driving features to the segment, the Sonet isn't far behind. This camera-based system offers 10 autonomous driving features, with five being practical for daily use. High-Beam Assist, Leading Vehicle Departure Alert, Forward Collision Warning, and Forward Collision Avoidance Assist make your drive safer.
What’s also updated is the driver instrument cluster - a straight pick from the Seltos but with a slightly lower capacity processor. The animations aren’t as smooth as the Seltos, but the screen with it’s customisable display remains one of the best in the business.
On paper, the Tata Nexon may come across as a larger product with more road presence, but it's the irregular fit and finish, along with inconsistent manufacturing, that pose concerns. Standing in front of the Sonet after the Nexon, the difference is clear. The fit is top-notch, and driving the X-Line trim in Bhopal during mild showers showcased the Sonet's well-finished paint that turned rain droplets on the bonnet into a picturesque scene.
While it may not be as substantial as the Nexon or Brezza, the Sonet holds its ground in terms of road presence with its styling and an exclusive paint-scheme.
Verdict
Looking at the Sonet from a buyer's perspective, its major rivals, the Nexon and Brezza, offer distinct advantages. The Nexon is larger and safer, while the Brezza provides easy ownership and peace of mind. The Sonet, however, strikes a balance by incorporating the best features from both, offering unmatched features, diverse engine and transmission options, and head-turning styling, especially with the X-Line variant.
Kia also assures an excellent ownership experience with robust after-sales service. Safety is enhanced with the addition of ADAS, although real-world driving conditions may limit its daily use. While crash tests are pending, I firmly believe test results in a closed environment is not how a car should be defined. What defines a car is the experience is builds. And that’s where the sonet excels - day-to-day driving experience is going to be extremely pleasing. To Tata enthusiasts, experience the Sonet once, and ponder if, without budget constraints, you'd choose anything else in this segment?
And that's why I believe the Sonet is the Apple of the segment.
Your Quick ADAS Guide:
High Beam Assist (HBA) - while driving at night you can leave the headlamps on high beam and it will automatically lower the beam when it senses oncoming traffic.
Leading Vehicle Departure Alert (LVDA) - say suppose you are in stop and go traffic and there’s an important email you are reverting to. While you are stationary and suing your phone you can rely on the system to tell you when the car in front moved ahead, so you don’t have to do this
Forward Collision Warning (FCW) - This is crucial for highway and high speeds driving. You absolutely shouldn’t but if you do get distracted while driving and do not spot a slowing car in front of you, the system will beep and warn you.
Forward Collison - Avoidance Assist-Car (FCA-Car/Pedestrian/Cyclist)
This feature applies the brakes of the vehicle when it senses a collision with a vehicle, pedestrian or car.
Lane Keep Assist (LKA) - it keeps you in the centre of the lane. Lot of new drivers are not able to centre their car while driving on highways, taking that long bend ahead. This will teach you how to master that skill. I could do that too, but I’m not the Sonet.
