Auto Expo 2020: Kia unveils Sonet to take on Maruti's Brezza

South Korean carmaker Kia took the curtains off the compact SUV it is launching in India as a competitor to Maruti Suzuki Brezza at Auto Expo 2020. Sonet (codenamed QYI) will be available to buyers later this year.

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Sonet would be more of a volume cruncher for the company, Kia had said last month. "Kia is now trying to consolidate in regions where it currently lags in terms of presence, Kia Motors India Head Marketing and Sales Manohar Bhat had told news agency PTI.

He had also said that Carnival is going to be the company's flagship model in India.

Being touted as a VIP MPV, Kia has positioned Carnival as a premium vehicle with stylish looks and fully-loaded interiors. Under the hood is a capable 2.2-litre diesel engine which, while a gamble, promises unmatched performance. With 204 hp power and torque figures of 440 Nm, the Carnival could also be quite fuel efficient.

Sonet, meanwhile, is a sub-4 metre compact SUV, and sports the company's signature tiger-nose grille at the front and a two-part headlight design.

Right under the headlamps, lies a pair of large air dams, while its bumper has been given a rugged look through silver elements running across.

It has a horizontal red LED strip that runs below the rear glass and links the tail-light clusters on both the sides.

Talking about the interior, Sonet comes with a large touchscreen infotainment system, climate control, phone connectivity, steering-mounted control among other features. Ventilated seats, cruise control, sunroof and wireless phone charger is available on the top variant(s) of the car.

It will come with a 1.2-litre petrol and 1.0-litre turbo-petrol. Seltos' diesel engine will be carried forward.

Sonet will meet the upcoming Bharat Stage (BS) 6 emission norms.

Check out Upcoming Cars in India 2024, Best SUVs in India.