The compact SUV segment in India is a fierce battleground, with contenders vying for dominance. Two prominent players, the new Kia Sonet and the Renault Kiger, stand out for their stylish looks, practical features, and competitive pricing. But when it comes to choosing the perfect urban chariot, the question arises: Sonet or Kiger? Let’s delve into a detailed comparison to help you navigate this automotive crossroads.
Design and Dimensions:
The Kia Sonet boasts a muscular stance with sharp lines, a bold grille, and sleek LED headlamps. Its athletic silhouette exudes confidence, while the longer wheelbase (2542mm) translates to a spacious cabin. The Renault Kiger counters with a playful and quirky design, featuring split headlamps, a floating roof, and vibrant color options. While its compact dimensions (2491mm wheelbase) make it agile in tight spaces, it offers slightly less interior room.
Performance and Powertrains:
Both SUVs offer a range of engine options:
- Sonet:
- 1.2L Kappa turbo GDI petrol (110hp/174Nm) with 5MT/6iMT/7DCT options.
- 1.5L CRDi VGT diesel (100hp/240Nm) with 6MT.
- 1.0L T-GDi turbo petrol (120hp/172Nm) with 7DCT (GT Line variant).
- Kiger:
- 1.0L Energy TCe turbo petrol (100hp/160Nm) with 5MT/5AMT options.
- 1.0L Energy SCe naturally aspirated petrol (72hp/96Nm) with 5MT.
The Sonet emerges as the performance king, with its powerful turbocharged engines and wider transmission choices. Notably, the GT Line’s 1.0L T-GDi offers the highest power output. The Kiger holds its own with the punchy 1.0L Energy TCe, but the naturally aspirated SCe feels underpowered, especially for highway driving.
Fuel Efficiency:
The Kiger takes the crown in fuel efficiency, with the Energy TCe claiming an impressive 20.5 kmpl (ARAI) figure. The Sonet’s 1.2L turbo petrol comes close with 18.2 kmpl, while the diesel variant offers a commendable 21 kmpl. Ultimately, fuel efficiency depends on driving style and traffic conditions, but the Kiger edges out in this round.
Features and Interiors:
Both SUVs are loaded with features, with the Sonet offering a slightly more premium experience. Its 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Bose sound system and connected car tech feels luxurious. The Kiger counters with an 8-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and segment-first features like cruise control and cooled glovebox. Both cabins are comfortable and spacious, with the Sonet providing marginally more legroom and a larger boot (422L vs. 405L).
Safety and Driving Dynamics:
Safety is paramount for both, with dual airbags, ABS with EBD, and cornering stability control offered as standard. The New Kia Sonet adds hill-hold assist, tyre pressure monitoring, and six airbags in higher trims, while the Renault Kiger boasts rear parking sensors and ISOFIX child seat mounts. On the driving front, the Sonet handles corners with poise thanks to its stiffer suspension, while the Kiger prioritizes ride comfort with a softer setup. Both offer decent ground clearance for tackling rough roads.
New Kia Sonet vs. Renault Kiger: Price and Variants
The Sonet starts at a slightly higher price point of Rs. 7.99 lakh for the base petrol variant, compared to the Kiger’s Rs. 5.99 lakh starting price. However, the Sonet offers a wider range of variants and powertrains, including the powerful GT Line, while the Kiger’s top-end trims come close to the Sonet’s base price. Ultimately, the choice depends on your budget and desired features.
The Verdict:
Choosing between the Kia Sonet and Renault Kiger depends on your priorities. The Sonet is the performance king with a wider range of powertrains, a more premium interior, and advanced features. But it comes at a slightly higher price tag. The Kiger shines with its fuel efficiency, quirky design, competitive pricing, and segment-first features. However, its smaller size and less powerful engine options might be dealbreakers for some.
