Kia Sonet Set to Roll Out Affordable Sunroof Variants: Nexon Rivalry Heats Up

Kia India recently revamped the options and features of its Seltos and Carens models. Now the focus has shifted to the budget Sonet. Kia's strategy involves introducing two subcategories based…

By Ishika Setia

March 30, 2024

2 min read

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Kia India recently revamped the options and features of its Seltos and Carens models. Now the focus has shifted to the budget Sonet. Kia’s strategy involves introducing two subcategories based on tier primary categories like HTE and HTK. This step is aimed at providing equipped choices at competitive prices to enhance competition with leading models like the Nexon.

Upcoming Variants from Kia Sonet

At present, Kia offers the Sonet in seven trims: HTE, HTK, HTK+, HTX, HTX+, GTX+, and X Line, which have been around for a while with the updated Sonet version. Despite providing a variety of engine options and a wide range of features and amenities the sales of the Sonet could have been better. To cater to changing consumer preferences the company is introducing two trim levels: HTE (O) and HTK (O).

These variants are set to include both petrol and diesel choices with gearbox selections creating a lineup. The standout feature of these trims is the addition of a sunroof. While not a necessity there has been an increasing interest among car buyers in sunroofs prompting manufacturers to adjust their product offerings to meet this demand. The upcoming trim levels in India will offer an option at a price point within the HTE (O) variant.

Tata also offers options starting from the base model of the Nexon sub-4m SUV called Persona. The enhancements in the HTK (O) version are quite comprehensive including LED tail lights, automatic climate control, and a rear defogger. Regarding updates it would have been advantageous if Kia had included essential features for the Indian market like ventilated seats or an ADAS suite in lower trims. However, due to the demand for sunroofs, more OEMs are now choosing to include them.

Several new features are anticipated to accompany the HTE (O) and HTK (O) trim levels. The powertrain configurations, including a 1.2L 4-cylinder NA petrol engine, a 1.0L 3-cylinder turbo petrol engine, and a 1.5L turbo diesel engine are expected to remain unchanged. Additionally, there will be gearbox options, for selection.