2026 Kia Sonet revealed new variants with more affordable diesel and turbo-petrol AT options

Kia India has updated the Sonet sub-4 metre SUV with new turbo-petrol and diesel automatic variants. These changes make automatic transmission options more accessible to buyers. The Sonet now also comes in a new Magma Red colour, expanding its palette to seven options.

• Kia has updated the Sonet sub-4 metre SUV with new turbo-petrol and diesel automatic variants.
• These changes make automatic transmission options more accessible to buyers.
• The Sonet now also comes in a new Magma Red colour, expanding its palette to seven options.
• The diesel automatic variant of the Kia Sonet was previously available only from the HTX trim, priced at Rs 13.34 lakh.

Automatic Transmission Now More Affordable

The diesel automatic variant of the 2026 Kia Sonet was previously available only from the HTX trim, priced at Rs 13.34 lakh. Now, buyers can choose the diesel automatic from the HTE(O) variant, which costs Rs 3.56 lakh less than the earlier entry point. Similarly, the turbo-petrol DCT automatic is now offered from the HTK(O) variant. This makes it Rs 2.63 lakh less expensive than the HTX variant, where this gearbox was previously introduced.

Colour Options and Features

The 2026 Kia Sonet introduces a new Magma Red colour. Other available colours include Imperial Blue, Pewter Olive, Glacier White, Sparkling Silver, Aurora Black, and Gravite Grey. The Glacier White shade can also be paired with a black roof. No new features have been added in this update.

The Sonet continues to offer a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a 10.25-inch fully digital driver’s display, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, connected car technology, a 7-speaker Bose sound system, ventilated front seats, sunroof, keyless entry with push-button start, and cruise control.

Safety and Mechanical Details

The Sonet’s safety features remain unchanged. It includes six airbags, a 360-degree camera, ABS with EBD, front and rear parking sensors, electronic stability control (ESC), tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS), and Level 1 advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS). There are no mechanical changes in this update. The Sonet continues with three engine options: a 1.2-litre four-cylinder naturally aspirated petrol, a 1-litre three-cylinder turbo-petrol, and a diesel engine.

Market Competition

The Kia Sonet competes with several models in the compact SUV segment. Its main rivals include the Hyundai Venue, Maruti Brezza, Tata Nexon, Mahindra XUV 3XO, Maruti Fronx, Skoda Kylaq, and Toyota Taisor.

Also Read: Kia Sonet Petrol iMT Long-Term Review: 2-Month Insights

Conclusion

The refreshed 2026 Kia Sonet lineup strengthens its appeal by offering greater choice and affordability. With new variants that make diesel and turbo-petrol automatics more attainable, Kia continues to cater to evolving customer needs. This update ensures the Sonet remains a compelling option in India’s compact SUV market, balancing features, performance, and value.