Kia’s Sonet pure poetry in motion
CARMAKER Stellantis and iphone assembler Foxconn said this week they plan to create a joint venture to supply in-car and connected-car technologies across the auto industry. The two companies have signed a non-binding memorandum of understanding to form Mobile Drive, a 50:50 joint venture based in the Netherlands, focused on infotainment, telematics and cloud service platform development.
Mobile Drive will operate as an automotive supplier and take part in tenders to provide software systems and related hardware for Stellantis. | Reuters
KIA’S new Sonet is the carmaker’s entry point into their SUV range and is probably the most attractive within its segment. It’s more understated than loud and in this market that’s not a bad thing.
The LX versions are equipped with an impressive list of standard specifications such as automatic headlights, remote central locking, electric windows, electronically adjusted side mirrors, 8-inch infotainment system that’s Apple Carplay and Android Auto compatible, height adjustable driver’s seat and Bluetooth. Safety-wise it has ABS, electronic stability control, hill-assist control and dual front airbags.
If you opt for the EX trim, it adds rear park distance control, leather trimmed steering wheel and gear knob, silver skid plate, roof rails, side indicator lamps and front fog lights.
The interior feels well made with leather-cloth seats, multifunctional steering wheel and hard-wearing surfaces. There is 392 litres of luggage space for those weekends away.
Built in India, the Sonet is powered by a new engine in our market, the 1.5litre MPI powerplant that’s normally aspirated and is good for 85kw and 144Nm. It sends power to the front wheels via either a six-speed manual or CVT transmission.
Our launch route included some twisty roads and gravel driving from Cape Town to Hermanus. We were in the manual variant and found the gearbox slick and easy to change with a light clutch. The steering is also light. The engine didn’t mind being given a heavy right foot, and the suspension is well balanced and made easy work on the dirt roads. Consumption was just under 6l/100km.
The return drive was with the Cvt-fitted Sonet EX. “Gear changes” are very smooth and silent under normal driving conditions. Driving up mountain passes though, there’s a whine as you push the accelerator with a slow response. It’s here that the manual makes more sense but I doubt it will be a deal-breaker to the Sonet’s target market.
Priced from R264 995.