Kia made a grand debut in India at the 2018 Auto Expo, unveiling the SP Concept and showcasing its full range of cars from the Picanto to the Stinger GT. The SP Concept spawned the brand’s first model for India, the Seltos, which has since gone on to become a smash hit.
The South Korean car-maker has adopted a similar approach for the 2020 Auto Expo that opened doors in New Delhi yesterday. Making its world debut this time is the Sonet Concept that previews an upcoming compact crossover that will slot in as the smallest in a lineup that includes Seltos, Stonic, Sportage, Sorento and Telluride.
Featuring bold and modern design elements, the Sonet Concept – like every new Kia out there – looks pleasing to the eyes.
Kia’s signature ‘Tiger Nose’ grille dominates the fascia featuring intricate step-well geometry within the mesh. Wraparound headlights emerge seamlessly from the top corners of the grille and incorporates LED Daytime Running Lights. The squared-off wheel arches and those interesting C-pillars that sharply rise to the top before appearing to wrap themselves around the roof give this little crossover an attractive profile. Further adding to the appeal are door handles that sit flush with the body and ultra-thin mirrors. The rear features a light bar that joins the taillights and houses the Kia logo in the middle. Giving that extra dose of sportiness are brushed silver inserts in the front and rear bumpers and bright red highlights in the grille, bumpers, doors and alloy wheels.
Don’t expect the production model to look too different from this concept. Kia might do a Seltos here which looks very much like the SP Concept!
Kia’s diminutive crossover will share its underpinnings with the similarly-sized Hyundai Venue. Three engines – a 1.2-liter petrol, a 1.0-liter turbocharged petrol and a 1.5-liter diesel – are likely to be offered along with manual and automatic transmission options including the Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) from the Venue.
When it goes on sale later this year, the Sonet will enter a crowded segment currently dominated by Maruti-Suzuki’s Vitara Brezza and Hyundai’s Venue. Other rivals include the Ford EcoSport, Tata Nexon and Mahindra XUV3OO.
Watch this space to know if Kia emerges unscathed the third time after back-to-back hits in the form of Seltos and Carnival.
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