If you’re looking for a stylish and affordable SUV, the Kia Sonet is definitely a car that’s worth considering.
And, if you’re on a budget, the entry-level HTE variant might just be the perfect fit. In this comprehensive guide,.
I’ll take you through everything you need to know about the Kia Sonet HTE—its features, specifications, pros and cons, and whether it’s the right car for you.
Key Takeaways
- The Kia Sonet HTE is the most affordable way to get your hands on Kia’s stylish and popular compact SUV.
- It offers a decent set of essential features, peppy engine options, and Kia’s reputation for reliability.
- If you’re on a strict budget and want a city-friendly SUV with the basics covered, the Sonet HTE could be a great choice.
Kia Sonet HTE Petrol Features
FEATURES | |
Comfort & convenience | |
Power Steering | Yes |
Power Windows Front | Yes |
Power Windows Rear | No |
Air Conditioner | Yes |
Heater | Yes |
Adjustable Streeing | Yes |
Hight Adjustable Driver Seat | NO |
Ventilated Seats | NO |
Electric Adjastable Seats | NO |
Automatic Cliamte Control | NO |
Air Quality Control | NO |
Trunk Light | NO |
Remote Horn And Light Control | NO |
Rear Reading Lamp | YES |
Rear Seat Head Rest | YES |
Adjustable head Rest | YES |
Rear Seat Center Arm Rest | NO |
Cup Holders Front | YES |
Rear Ac Vents | YES |
Cruise Control | NO |
Parking Sensors | Rear |
Foldable Rear Seat | Bench Folding |
Key Less Entery | NO |
Engine Start or Stop Button | NO |
Streeing Wheel Gear Shift Peddles | NO |
USB Charger | Front and Rear |
Central Console Arm Rest | With Storage |
Hands Free Tail Gate | NO |
Gear Shift Indicator | YES |
Battery Saver | YES |
Drive Modes | NO |
Rear Window Sun Blind | NO |
Automatic Head Lamps | NO |
Follow Me Home Head Lamps | NO |
Additional Features | Coat hook, Eco Coating |
Drive Mode Types | NO |
Interior | |
Tachometer | YES |
Glove Compartment | YES |
Digital Odo meter | YES |
Additional Feature | Silver finish AC vents garnish, Premuim Beige Roof Lining, Silver Painted Door Handles, Semi Leatherette Seats with All Black Interiors, |
Digital Cluster | Semi |
Digital Cluster size | 4.2 Inch |
Upholstery | Leatherette |
Exterior | |
Tyre Size | 195/65 R15 |
Tyre Type | Radial Tubeless |
Safety | |
Anti-Lock Braking Sysetm | YES |
Brake Assist | YES |
Central Locking | YES |
Number of Air Bags | 6 |
Driver Air Bag | YES |
Passanger Air Bag | YES |
Side Air Bag Front | YES |
Day And Night Rear View Mirror | YES |
Curtain Air Bag | YES |
Electronic Break-Force Distribution | YES |
Seat Belt Warning | YES |
Door Alert Warning | YES |
Traction Control | NO |
Tyre Pressure Monitor | YES |
Engine Immobilizer | YES |
Electronic Stability Control | YES |
Advance Safety Features | Emergency stop signal, Vehicle Stability Management, Front & Rear All seat 3-Point Seat Belts with Reminder |
Rear Camera | NO |
Anti-Pinch Power Windows | NOES |
Speed Alert | YES |
Speed-sensing auto-door lock | YES |
ISOFIX, Child Seat Mounts | NO |
Hill Assist | YES |
Impact Sensing Auto-Door Unlock | YES |
360 View Camera | NO |
Entertainment & Communications | |
Radio Speaker Front | NO |
Speaker Rear | NO |
Integrated 2DIN Audio | NO |
Wireless Phone Charging | NO |
Bluetooth Connectivity | NO |
Touch Screen | NO |
Touch Screen Size | NO |
Connectivity | NO |
Android Auto | NO |
Apple CarPlay | NO |
No.of SPeakers | NO |
USB Ports | C-TYPE |
Tweeters | NO |
Subwoofer | NO |
Additional Features | - |
ADAS Feature | |
Forward Collision Warning | NO |
Blind Spot Collision Avoidance Assist | NO |
Lane Departure Warning | NO |
Lane Keep Assist | NO |
Driver Attention Warningh | NO |
Leading vehicle Departure Altert | NO |
Adpative High Beam Assits | NO |
Blind Spot Monitor | NO |
Advance Internet Feature | |
Ecall & Icaal | NO |
Over The Air (OTA) Updates | NO |
Google or Alexa Connectivity | NO |
Kia Sonet HTE Petrol Specifications
SPECIFICATIONS | |
Engine & Transmission | |
Engine Type | Smartstream G1.2 |
Displacement | 1197 cc |
Max Power | 81.9bhp@6000rpm |
Max Torque | 114Nm@4200rpm |
No.of Cylinders | 4 |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 |
Fuel Supply System | MPi |
Turbo Charger | NO |
Transmission Type | MANUAL |
Gear Box | 5-SPEED |
Drive Type | FWD |
Fuel & Performance | |
Fuel Type | PETROL |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 LITERS |
Emission Norm Compliance | BS VI 2.0 |
Suspension, Steering and Breaks | |
Front Suspension | MCPHERSON STRUT WITH COIL SPRING |
Rear Suspension | COUPLED TORSION BEAM AXLE WITH COIL SPRING |
Steering Type | ELECTRIC |
Steering Column | TILT |
Front Break Type | DISC |
Rear Break Type | DRUM |
Alloy Wheel Front Size | |
Alloy Wheel Rear Size | |
Dimensions & Capacity | |
Length | 3995 MM |
Width | 1790MM |
Height | 1642 MM |
Boot Space | 365 LITERS |
Seating Capacity | 5 |
Wheel Base | 3095MM |
No.of. Doors | 5 |
Kia Sonet HTE Petrol Exterior Design and Features
Okay, let’s face it: the Kia Sonet HTE probably won’t win any international awards for groundbreaking design.
But you know what? It’s a darn good-looking car, especially for its price point! Kia’s designers have managed to strike a nice balance between sporty and practical, making the Sonet HTE a stylish option for those who want an unpretentious daily driver.
Let’s talk specifics. That signature Kia ‘tiger-nose’ grille is bold and definitely gives the HTE some presence.
Expand_more Even though it’s the base model, you still get those sleek headlights with cool LED daytime running lights, a nice premium touch.expand_more From the side, the Sonet HTE has a strong profile with sculpted lines that give it a sense of movement.
Those black roof rails aren’t just for looks; they’re super handy if you ever need to carry extra stuff up top.
Now, about those dimensions I mentioned earlier,. Remember, the Sonet is a compact SUV.expand_more Here’s how those numbers translate in real life: it’s short enough to easily squeeze into tight parking spots and navigate crowded city streets.
yet tall enough to offer decent headroom for passengers. The 205 mm ground clearance is also a big plus for tackling rough patches on Indian roads.expand_more
Of course, as the base model, the Sonet HTE rolls on 15-inch steel wheels.expand_more Let’s be honest, they’re a bit basic. But hey, aftermarket alloys are always an option if you want to personalize your ride later down the line.
One thing I really appreciate is the range of colors available for the Sonet HTE. You get the classic silvers and whites, but Kia also offers some bolder choices that can really set your car apart from the crowd.exclamation
Overall, the Kia Sonet HTE’s exterior is a win for me. It’s modern, sporty, and practical, and you get those little details like the LED lights that show Kia hasn’t cut corners on the base model. Sometimes, simplicity is best, right?
Kia Sonet HTE Petrol Interior Design
Stepping into the Kia Sonet HTE, you’ll find a cabin that prioritizes practicality over flashiness, but it’s far from being spartan.
The dashboard has a clean, uncluttered design. While I wouldn’t call the plastics luxurious, they feel durable and well put together—perfect for the everyday hustle.
The front seats are upholstered in fabric and offer decent comfort. I was surprised by the amount of space, especially legroom, in such a compact SUV.
Taller drivers might find the headroom a little snug, but it’s perfectly fine for most people. Even in the back, the Sonet HTE feels surprisingly roomy. You can fit two adults comfortably, and three won’t feel too cramped for shorter journeys.
In terms of storage, you get the usual spots: door pockets, a decently sized glove compartment, and cup holders. Boot space is impressive for this segment, standing at 365 liters. That’s enough to easily swallow a weekend’s worth of luggage or a decent grocery run.
One thing I particularly like about the interior is how airy it feels.
The HTE might not have a sunroof, but the large windows let in plenty of light. It’s a small touch that makes a big difference, especially in our sometimes claustrophobic city traffic.
Overall, the Kia Sonet HTE’s interior won me over with its functionality and surprising spaciousness. It won’t win any design awards, but it’s a comfortable and practical cabin that feels built to handle the daily grind and a little bit more!
Also See: Kia Seltos Turbo Petrol iMT Real-World Mileage: Truth Revealed
Kia Sonet HTE Petrol Engine and Performance
The Kia Sonet HTE might be the base model, but don’t underestimate its powertrain. Under the hood, you’ll find a 1.2-liter, four-cylinder gasoline engine.
Now, numbers on a page don’t always tell the whole story, so let me put it this way: this engine has enough pep to handle city traffic with ease. Zipping in and out of lanes? No problem. Merging onto highways? It won’t leave you struggling.
Let’s get a bit more technical. This engine delivers 81 horsepower and 114 Nm of torque. Don’t get me wrong; you won’t be winning any drag races with the Sonet HTE.
But for everyday driving, it has enough power to keep you satisfied. Plus, it’s paired with a smooth-shifting 5-speed manual transmission, which makes for an engaging drive.
One of the biggest advantages of the Sonet HTE is its fuel efficiency. Kia claims an impressive mileage figure of 18.4 kilometers per liter.
Of course, real-world conditions might slightly change those numbers, but this gives you an idea of how economical this SUV can be. When fuel prices are constantly fluctuating, every kilometer counts!
I get that some folks might wish for a more powerful engine option on the HTE. And hey, who wouldn’t want a bit of extra oomph?
But, the thing to remember is that this setup strikes a fantastic balance between performance and fuel economy, making it perfect for those who want a practical city runabout.
Kia Sonet HTE Petrol Safety Features
You might think that being the base model, the Kia Sonet HTE would skimp on safety features. But thankfully, Kia takes safety seriously, even in its most affordable offering.
Let’s break down the key safety features you’ll find as standard in the HTE:
- Dual Front Airbags: These are absolutely crucial. In the unfortunate event of a frontal collision, they inflate to cushion the impact for the driver and front passenger, potentially reducing injury.
- ABS with EBD: ABS, or Anti-lock Braking System, is a technology that’s been around for a while and is now a standard in most cars. It works by preventing your wheels from locking up during emergency braking. Picture this: You slam on the brakes suddenly. ABS rapidly pumps the brakes on and off, preventing skidding and giving you better control. That’s important in those heart-in-your-mouth moments! EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution) works hand-in-hand with ABS, balancing the braking forces between your front and rear wheels based on how loaded your car is, helping you stop faster and in a more controlled way.
- Rear Parking Sensors: Let’s face it, parking in India can be a real circus. These sensors on the rear bumper are incredibly helpful, especially in cramped spaces. You’ll get an audible warning as you get closer to obstacles, taking some of the stress out of maneuvering your Sonet.
While these are great baseline safety features, it’s true that some rivals offer a bit more, even in their base variants.
I’d always encourage opting for cars with more comprehensive safety equipment, especially if your budget allows. Features like additional airbags (side and curtain), hill-hold assist, and a rear-view camera can further enhance your safety on the road.
A Word on Safety Tests: Unfortunately, the Kia Sonet HTE hasn’t yet undergone the Global NCAP crash safety tests, a program that provides independent safety ratings for cars. These tests would give us a better picture of the car’s overall crashworthiness.
Kia Sonet HTE Petrol Price and Rivals
The Kia Sonet HTE offers fantastic value for money. You get a stylish and well-equipped SUV at a very competitive price. Of course, the compact SUV market in India is packed with options. Some of the Sonet HTE’s key rivals include:
- Hyundai Venue
- Tata Nexon
- Maruti Suzuki Vitara Brezza
- Mahindra XUV300
Kia Sonet HTE Petrol: Pros and Cons
Every car has its strengths and weaknesses. Here’s an honest look at the pros and cons of the Kia Sonet HTE:
Pros
- Affordable Price: One of the biggest draws of the HTE variant.
- Stylish Exterior: It shares good looks with more expensive Sonet trims.
- Decent Features: You get the essentials covered in the base model.
- Fuel Efficient: Great option if you prioritize low running costs.
- Kia’s Reliability: Kia cars are known for their reliability and good warranty coverage.
Cons
- Missing Features: You won’t find all the bells and whistles of higher variants.
- Basic Interior: Materials could be better, especially when compared to some rivals.
- Competition: Some competitors might offer slightly more features at a similar price point.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the on-road price of the Kia Sonet HTE?
The on-road price will vary depending on your location due to factors like registration, taxes, and insurance. It’s best to check with your local Kia dealership for an accurate quote.
Does the Kia Sonet HTE have a touchscreen infotainment system?
No, the HTE variant comes with a basic audio system but does have Bluetooth for music and calls.
Is the Kia Sonet HTE a safe car?
It comes with essential safety features like dual airbags and ABS, but it’d be great to see additional safety features as standard across the range.
What is the mileage of the Kia Sonet HTE?
Kia claims an ARAI-tested mileage of 18.4 kmpl for the petrol version. Real-world mileage might vary slightly based on driving conditions.
How is the maintenance cost of the Kia Sonet HTE?
Kia cars are generally known for reasonable maintenance costs and spare part availability.
Conclusion
The Kia Sonet HTE offers a solid package for its price. I like its stylish design, peppy 1.2L engine, and surprisingly decent list of essential features.
The fuel efficiency is a big bonus. If you’re tight on budget but want a new SUV with Kia’s reliability, the Sonet HTE is worth serious consideration.