Choosing between the HTE and a mini Range Rover (Kia Sonet)? Let’s dive into the engine options first. We have the 1.2L Kappa engine by Hyundai, a 5-speed manual, giving 83 PS (horsepower) and 155 Nm (Newton-meters) of torque. This engine is a common choice for the group, found in the Grand i10 Nios, Venue, Aura, and even the Sonet. It performs best in the Grand i10 because of its light weight.
The 1.0L TGDi engine is a turbocharged petrol unit, delivering 120 PS (horsepower) and 172 Nm (Newton-meters) of torque. It comes with a 6-speed iMT (Intelligent Manual Transmission) or a 7-speed DCT (Dual-Clutch Transmission). It’s a powerful and popular option. Finally, there’s the 1.5L CRDi diesel engine, a true powerhouse with 116 PS and 250 Nm of torque. Available with a 6-speed manual or torque converter, this engine is so strong it’s even used in 7-seater vehicles like the Alcazar.
Kia Sonet -HTE Variants: The Entry Point
If your budget is tight but you still want to enjoy an SUV, the HTE is the perfect starting point. The 1.2L petrol manual version is priced at ₹7.3 lakh (ex-showroom). It comes with 6 airbags, a TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System), and rear AC (air conditioning) vents. You also get semi-leather seats and a fixed front armrest with storage. However, it only has front power windows, which is a bit of a letdown.
Kia Sonet -HTE Optional: The Diesel Base
The HTE Optional is the base model for the diesel engine, priced at ₹8.98 lakh (ex-showroom). For a petrol manual, it’s ₹7.7 lakh. This variant adds some great comfort and style features. You get a sunroof, LED DRLs (Daytime Running Lights) that look beautiful, and rear sunshades. Most importantly, you finally get rear power windows, making this a much better choice for passengers.
Kia Sonet -HTK: The Sweet Spot
The HTK variant is where the Sonet’s true fun begins. It’s available with the 1.2L petrol manual at ₹8.41 lakh or the 1.0L turbo petrol with iMT at ₹8.7 lakh. This trim level offers a fantastic blend of features. You get a bigger 8-inch infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, steering-mounted audio controls, and a rear camera with guidelines. It even includes front parking sensors and driver seat height adjustment.
Kia Sonet -HTK Optional & HTK Plus
The HTK Optional brings back the electric sunroof and adds features like electric-folding mirrors and automatic climate control. The HTK Plus is another step up, with features like 16-inch alloy wheels, a wireless charger, and push-button start. It also has leather-wrapped steering and an LED turn signal. You can even get remote engine start on the turbo variants.
Kia Sonet -HTX: Higher-End Features
The HTX line-up is where you say goodbye to the 1.2L petrol engine. The 1.0L DCT (Dual-Clutch Transmission) starts here at ₹11.6 lakh. This variant makes the sunroof standard and adds cruise control, rear disc brakes, and drive modes. The automatic versions also get paddle shifters and a special perfumed air purifier, a truly luxurious touch.
Kia Sonet -GTX Plus: The Fully Loaded Experience
The top-of-the-line GTX Plus is priced at ₹13.5 lakh for the DCT petrol. This variant comes with all the bells and whistles, including ventilated seats, a 10.25-inch infotainment system, and a premium Bose 7-speaker setup. It also features a 360-degree camera and Level 1 ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) with 10 features. This is the top-end variant with all the technology and comfort you could want.
Kia Sonet -X-Line: The Style Statement
The X-Line is the most expensive petrol Sonet, starting at ₹13.65 lakh. It’s all about style, with a full chrome delete and a unique matte paint finish. This model takes the GTX Plus features and gives the car a bold, “mafia-type” look. However, keep in mind that matte paint can be a headache to maintain.
Our Recommendations
If you’re on a tight budget but love diesel, the HTK Optional diesel at ₹9.93 lakh is a great choice. For a high-end diesel experience, the GTX Plus diesel automatic at ₹14 lakh is a steal, offering a top-tier variant for the price of a lower-end Creta. If you prefer petrol, the HTK 1.0L iMT at ₹8.7 lakh is a good budget pick, while the GTX Plus DCT at ₹13.5 lakh is the way to go if you have the budget.
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