Kia has unveiled its new Sonet compact SUV concept car at the Auto Expo, India. This concept previews a future compact SUV for the global market.

Kia is moving fast on this one, with the aim of converting this concept into a production reality by the second half of 2020.

From these photos, we can see the Kia Sonet is a striking vehicle, with the brand claiming it adopts the latest design elements like thesignature ‘tiger-nose’ grille. Inside, the Sonet is targeting the young demographic who love their technology. The vehicle isfitted with a 10,25-inch infotainment and navigation system with UVO Connect, a Bose premium audio system, and an intelligent manual transmission (iMT). Kia is claimingbest-in-class interior space and certain first-in-class features.

Could it work in South Africa?

The question remains whether there would be a solidbusiness case for a vehicle such as the “Sonet” in Mzansi… Kia Motors South Africa is preparing to roll out facelifts of the Picanto and Rio during 2020 as well as the new Sorento; if the brand’s sub-Seltos small SUV was viable for local introduction, could it perhaps cannibalise Rio sales? Perhaps.

But remember that Korean cousins Hyundai and Kia’s product line-ups have traditionally competed model for model (with a few exceptions) in South Africa… If the Venue could be successful for Hyundai SA, why couldn’t the “Sonet” be a successstory for Kia? We'll be sure to keep you posted.

Further Reading

Kia Sonet on cards for SA?

Kia Seltos (2019) Specs & Price

Kia Seltos (2019) International Launch Review

Hyundai Venue (2019) Launch Review

Hyundai Venue (2019) Specs & Price

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