Kia Sonet HTK (O) Diesel

Buying a new car in India is always a big decision. You juggle so many things: your budget, the safety features, how much it will cost to maintain every month, the latest tech goodies, and of course, how good the company's service network is. Finding that perfect balance can be tricky, right? Well, today we are taking a deep dive into a car that aims to tick a lot of these boxes for Indian families: the new Kia Sonet HTK (O) Diesel.

The Kia Sonet has made a name for itself in the highly competitive compact SUV segment. With its recent updates, it's back to impress even more. But what exactly does the HTK (O) Diesel variant offer? Let's break it down and see if this Sonet is the right fit for your driveway.

Main Highlights

Engine Specifications

At the heart of the Kia Sonet HTK (O) Diesel lies a robust and efficient 1.5-litre CRDi VGT (Variable Geometry Turbocharger) diesel engine. This motor is known for its strong performance and impressive fuel efficiency, making it a favorite for those who do a lot of driving or prefer the punchy torque of a diesel.

• Engine Type: 1.5L CRDi VGT Diesel

• Maximum Power: 116 PS (at 4,000 rpm)

• Maximum Torque: 250 Nm (between 1,500-2,750 rpm)

Design Overview

Exterior

The Kia Sonet HTK (O) retains the Sonet's signature bold and aggressive styling. The facelifted model comes with sharper lines and an even more modern appeal. You get the distinctive 'Star Map' LED DRLs (Daytime Running Lights) which merge seamlessly with the refreshed 'Tiger Nose' grille. The bumper design is also updated, giving it a wider, more imposing stance. The alloy wheels (or stylish wheel covers depending on exact configuration) add to its sporty character, making it stand out on Indian roads. It looks like a proper SUV, not just a tall hatchback.

Interior

Step inside the Sonet HTK (O), and you are greeted by a cabin that feels surprisingly premium for its segment. The dual-tone interior theme (depending on color choice) and neatly laid-out dashboard give it a sophisticated feel. The quality of materials used is good, and the ergonomic design ensures all controls are within easy reach. The seats are comfortable for long journeys, and there's a good sense of space in the front.

Key Features

The HTK (O) variant offers a balanced mix of essential and desirable features, enhancing your driving experience and comfort.

• Infotainment Screen Size: 8-inch Touchscreen with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay

• Connectivity: Kia Connect Lite (for basic connected car features)

• Climate Control: Automatic Climate Control

• Comfort & Convenience: Steering mounted controls, Rear AC vents, Electric ORVMs (Outside Rear View Mirrors), Cruise Control

• Parking Assist: Rear Parking Camera with guidelines, Rear Parking Sensors

• Note: Features like an electric sunroof, 360-degree camera, and wireless charging are typically available in higher-end Sonet variants.

What is the Ground Clearance of

• Ground Clearance: 205 mm

This generous ground clearance is perfect for tackling India's challenging roads, speed breakers, and occasional unpaved paths with ease.

What is the Boot Space of

• Boot Space: 385 litres

A good-sized boot means you have ample space for your luggage, groceries, or weekend trip essentials, making the Sonet a practical choice for families.

What is the Dimensions of

• Length: 3995 mm

• Width: 1790 mm

• Height: 1642 mm (with roof rails)

Powertrain Options

For the 1.5L CRDi VGT Diesel engine, Kia offers flexible transmission choices to suit different driving styles:

• 6-speed Manual Transmission (6MT): For those who prefer direct control and engagement.

• 6-speed Automatic Transmission (6AT): A torque converter unit providing smooth, hassle-free driving, especially in city traffic.

Safety Features

Safety is a big priority for Kia, and the updated Sonet reflects that. The HTK (O) variant comes with a strong suite of safety features to keep you and your loved ones protected.

• Airbags: 6 Airbags (standard across all variants post-facelift)

• Braking: ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) with EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)

• Stability Control: ESC (Electronic Stability Control), VSM (Vehicle Stability Management), HAC (Hill-start Assist Control)

• Parking & Security: Rear Parking Sensors, Rear Camera, ISOFIX child seat mounts

NCAP Rating Table

Understanding crash safety ratings is crucial. Here's a look at the Sonet's NCAP performance.

Rating Agency	Adult Occupant Protection	Child Occupant Protection	Notes
Global NCAP (Pre-facelift)	3 Stars	3 Stars	Based on the pre-facelift model with 2 airbags.
Bharat NCAP (Facelift)	Awaited	Awaited	The new Sonet with 6 standard airbags is expected to perform better, but an official rating is pending.

Rivals of Kia Sonet HTK (O) Diesel

The compact SUV segment is fiercely competitive. The Kia Sonet HTK (O) Diesel goes up against some strong contenders:

• Hyundai Venue

• Tata Nexon

• Maruti Suzuki Brezza

• Mahindra XUV300

• Nissan Magnite

• Renault Kiger

How is the Car? (Pros & Cons)

Let's weigh the good against the not-so-good for the Kia Sonet HTK (O) Diesel.

Pros:

• Punchy Diesel Engine: The 1.5L diesel offers excellent drivability, strong torque, and good fuel efficiency for daily commutes and highway runs.

• Bold Styling: The updated exterior looks sharp, modern, and grabs attention.

• Feature-Rich Mid Variant: The HTK (O) offers a good balance of features like an 8-inch touchscreen, automatic climate control, and cruise control, providing great value.

• Standard Safety: The inclusion of 6 airbags as standard across all variants is a significant plus point for safety-conscious buyers.

• High Ground Clearance: 205mm is ample for Indian road conditions, giving you confidence over rough patches.

• Refined Cabin: The interior feels premium and well put together, enhancing the overall experience.

Cons:

• Rear Seat Space: While adequate for two adults, three might feel a bit cramped on longer journeys compared to some rivals.

• No Sunroof/Advanced Features: If you desire features like a sunroof, wireless charger, or a 360-degree camera, you'll need to consider higher Sonet variants.

• Price Point: While feature-loaded, the Sonet's pricing can be on the higher side in some configurations compared to value-focused competitors.

• No Official Bharat NCAP Rating Yet: While the safety kit is improved, a fresh, official crash test rating is still awaited.

Conclusion

The Kia Sonet HTK (O) Diesel presents itself as a very compelling package for prospective car buyers in India. It strikes a great balance between a powerful and efficient diesel engine, a stylish design, a comfortable and feature-rich cabin, and a strong emphasis on safety. If you are looking for a compact SUV that offers a premium feel, good performance, decent mileage, and is well-equipped for its price point, the Sonet HTK (O) Diesel should definitely be on your shortlist.

It's a practical choice for urban commutes and highway escapades alike, offering reliability and the peace of mind that comes with Kia's growing service network. We highly recommend taking it for a test drive to experience its capabilities firsthand. Happy car hunting!