Kia Sonet Facelift Expected Launch Q4 2023

Kia Motors India is slated to unveil the facelifted Sonet in the country by the end of 2023. As we have reported before, this will be the subcompact SUV’s first major update since its launch in 2019. As a result, it will get a redesigned exterior and interior design with added features. Now, latest spy shots suggest that the SUV is currently being tested in South Korea. We take a closer look.

2023 Kia Sonet Facelift: Exterior Design

Kia Sonet Facelift

As you can see, the 2023 Kia Sonet test mule in the spy shots is wearing heavy camouflage. However, there are a few new design cues that are different from the outgoing model. The headlights retain the horizontal design but could get new LED DRLs. There is a new vertical element that connects the headlights with the fog lamps on the all-new front bumper. The latter also gets a wider air intake with a mesh pattern. Moving to the sides, there will be minimal changes except for new dual-tone 16-inch alloy wheels. Towards the rear, the vehicle will provide an all-new vertical LED tail light setup that is connected by an LED light bar. As for the bumper, it too seems to be redesigned.

2023 Kia Sonet Facelift: Interior Features

Kia Sonet Facelift Interior

Upcoming Sonet Facelift is expected to provide an overhauled interior with an updated dashboard design and new upholstery. It already provides features such as a 10.25-inch infotainment system, semi-digital instrument cluster, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay support, ventilated seats, electric sunroof, auto climate control, and more. With the facelift, the automaker may add even more equipment like a panoramic sunroof and a full digital instrument cluster.

2023 Kia Sonet Facelift: Powertrain Details

The company is believed to offer the soft-roader with the same powertrain options as the current model. The brand had recently updated them to meet the New BS6 Phase II Emission Norms and be E20 (20% ethanol blend) compliant.

This means that the car will be offered with 2 petrol and 1 diesel engine option. The latter is a 1.5-litre oil burner that churns out 114 bhp with 250 Nm of peak torque. The petrol choices include a 1.2-litre N/A petrol making 82 bhp and 115 Nm torque alongside a 1-litre turbo-petrol delivering 120 bhp with 172 Nm of peak torque. Transmission options are expected to remain unchanged as well.

2023 Kia Sonet Facelift: Launch and Rivals

As mentioned, Kia is expected to introduce the Sonet Facelift in India by the end of 2023. Upon launch, it will compete against the likes of the Hyundai Venue, Nissan Magnite, Tata Nexon, Renault Kiger, Mahindra XUV300, and the Maruti Brezza.