The latest contender to join to ultra busy Crossover/SUV segment, the Kia Sonet was launched onto the SA market very recently. With this segment currently accounting for 39% of all sales, its no surprise that more and more manufacturers are getting in on the action.
Powered by a 1.5L 4 cylinder petrol engine giving 85kW and 144Nm it's interesting to note the competition split between similar powerplants and some with smaller turbo variants.
The Sonet is offered with either a 6 speed manual gearbox or CVT automatic. Either transmission can be matched to either base LX or upper EX spec levels. The test car was the range topping EX with CVT auto.
I have said many times that I find that a good CVT transmission is the perfect match for this category of vehicles and the version in the Sonet fits the bill. Smooth and unflustered in general driving, it makes town driving or cruising smooth and easy.
The engine and gearbox combination also combine to provide superb fuel economy and we achieved 5.7l/100km on the open road with an overall figure of 6.0l/100km for combined driving. Taking into account that a fair portion of the open road trip was on dirt roads as well but more of that later.
The EX spec provides a good level of standard comfort and safety items with 2 airbags , ABS and ESP as well as Isofix fittings on the rear seat. The 8 inch infotainment system provides a reverse camera as well as Apple Carplay and Android Auto functions and even allows for these to operate wirelessly. Cruise control is also standard and EX models have roof rails that state that they cannot carry any weight.
Boot space is rated at 392L which is large and includes a full sized spare wheel under the board. Unusually, the rear seat only folds as a single piece when wanting to extend the cargo area, most competitors offer 2 separate folding sections for more versatility.
Our extended run on dirt roads as well as some driving on the farm showed that the Sonet provides very safe and capable handling and was very sure-footed on the dirt roads. The extra ride height provided by the Crossover/SUV style added to this factor.
With the Sonet range priced from R264 995 to R305 995 as tested, this is highly competitive in the segment. A 4 year/ 60 000km service plan is included.
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