Kia Sonet launched as Raize-fighting Stonic replacement, price starts at Php 758K

Should the Toyota Raize be worried? Kia Philippines, under the distributorship of ACMobility, has just launched its new subcompact crossover offering—the Sonet, set to compete with various budget crossover models in the market.

This new subcompact crossover was first unveiled for the Indian market in 2020, with a facelift revealed in December last year. It is built on the Hyundai-Kia K2 platform which is shared with the Kia Seltos, as well as the Hyundai Creta and Stargazer.

Its launch also marks the end of the Kia Stonic for the Philippines with the Sonet as its replacement. The local-spec Sonet comes in four variants starting with the entry-level LX M/T, followed by the LX A/T, then the EX A/T, and topped-off with the SX A/T.

As this is the facelifted Sonet for other markets, it already follows Kia’s Opposites United design philosophy with the large tiger nose front grille and Star Map signature LED daytime running lights (SX only). The rear features full-width taillights giving it a recognizable appearance. The overall look is much like a combination of the Sorento and Seltos crossovers.

Inside the Sonet you’ll find a Sorento-like dashboard which Kia says is designed around the driver. While the layout is simple, the center stack is slightly angled toward the driver for easier use. 

Standard equipment starting from the entry-level LX M/T variant include 16-inch steel wheels, halogen headlights and daytime running lights, 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, 6-speaker audio system, and reverse camera. Going for the LX A/T adds 16-inch two-tone alloy wheels. 

Moving up to the EX A/T variant adds LED exterior lighting (headlights, DRL, foglights, taillights), power-folding mirrors, and smart keyless entry and push button start. Finally, going for the top-spec SX A/T variant will give you a larger 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, automatic climate control, leatherette seats, and a sunroof.

As for exterior paint job options, LX and EX buyers can choose from Vivid Red, Snow White Pearl, and Imperial Blue. SX buyers can choose from Vivid Red or Snow White Pearl, both matched with a black roof; or the SX-only Pewter Olive.

Powering the Kia Sonet is a 1.5-liter naturally-aspirated Inline 4-cylinder MPI gasoline engine that produces 115 horsepower and 144 Nm of torque, mated to 6-speed manual transmission (LX M/T variant only) or an Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT), Kia-speak for CVT, on all other variants.

Sounds familiar? That’s the same powertrain you can find in the Seltos LX and EX variants, as well as the Hyundai Creta subcompact crossover and Stargazer MPV.

In terms of safety, the Sonet, at least on the top-spec SX variant, is the only model in its segment to be equipped with advanced driver-assist systems (ADAS). These are Forward Collision Avoidance Assist, Lane Following Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, Downhill Brake Control, Driver Attention Warning, and High Beam Assist. 

Pricing for the 2024 Kia Sonet is as follows:

• 1.5 LX M/T – Php 758,000
• 1.5 LX A/T – Php 868,000
• 1.5 EX A/T – Php 978,000
• 1.5 SX A/T – Php 1,138,000

The 2024 Kia Sonet is now available at all authorized Kia dealerships nationwide. What are your thoughts on this affordable new subcompact crossover? Customers will also be able to take advantage of a five-year or 160,000 kilometer vehicle warranty, whichever comes first, as well as 24/7 roadside assistance.