The Kia Sonet won't be equipped with rear
disc brakes, a feature that is available in the Kia Seltos. Kia hasn’t
confirmed this, but that’s what a new spy shot of a test mule in the top-end
trim suggests. Most of the sub-4 metre SUVs sold in India don’t come with rear
disc brakes. The Mahindra XUV300, the first Indian vehicle to score a 5-star
safety rating from Global NCAP, is the only model in its segment to have been
available with rear disc brakes so far. Even after the Kia Sonet’s launch, it’s
likely to remain the only model in its segment to feature rear wheel disc
brakes.
The Kia Sonet will be basically a
mechanical cousin of the Hyundai Venue. The Hyundai Venue sold internationally
features ventilated front disc brakes and (solid) rear disc brakes. The Hyundai
Venue sold in India has front disc brakes and rear drum brakes, and the Kia
Sonet should have the same brake setup for lower price and maintenance cost.
Safety features of the upcoming small SUV should include 6 airbags, ESC, VSM,
HAC, TPMS, etc. as well.
The Kia Sonet will look mostly the same as
the Kia Sonet Concept from Auto Expo 2020. Expect it to be offered with the
same engines and transmissions as the Hyundai Venue. For reference, the latter
is available with an 83 PS 1.2L N/A petrol engine linked to a 5-speed MT, a 120
PS 1.0L turbocharged petrol paired with a 6-speed MT or a 7-speed DCT and a 100
PS 1.5L turbocharged diesel engine matched with a 6-speed MT.
