Page 17 - Motoring Spring 2021

KIA TEST REVIEW

aunched onto the SA market recently, the
Kia Sonet is the latest contender to join to KIA SONET 1.5EX CVT
Lultra busy Crossover/SUV segment. With
this segment currently accounting for 39% of
all sales, it’s no surprise that more and more achieved 5.7l/100km on the open road with an overall figure of 6.0l/100km for urban and country
manufacturers are getting in on the action. driving. This is exceptional if ones considers that a fair portion of the open road trip that we did
The Sonet is offered with either a 6-speed during the test was on dirt roads as well.
manual gearbox or CVT automatic. Both The EX spec provides a good standard of comfort and safety items include two airbags, ABS
transmissions can be matched to either base and ESP as well as Isofix fittings on the rear seat. The 8-inch infotainment system provides a
LX or upper EX spec levels. The test car was reverse camera as well as Apple Carplay and Android Auto functions which are able to operate
the range-topping EX with CVT auto, powered wirelessly. Cruise control is also standard.
by a 1.5l 4-cylinder petrol engine giving 85kW Boot space is rated at 392l, which is comparatively large. However, unusually, the rear seat
and 144Nm. only folds as a single piece when one wants to extend the cargo area – most competitors offer two
I have said many times that I find that a separate folding sections for more versatility. There is a full-sized spare wheel under the boot board.
good CVT transmission is the perfect match Our extended run on dirt roads as well as some driving on the farm showed that the Sonet
for this category of vehicles and the version in provides exceptionally safe and capable handling and was very sure-footed on gravel. The extra
the Sonet fits the bill. Smooth and unflustered ride height provided by the Crossover/SUV style added to this factor.
in general driving, it makes town driving and Priced from R264 995 to R305 995 as tested, the Sonet range is highly competitive in the
cruising smooth and easy. segment. A 4-year/60 000km service plan is included. n
The engine and gearbox combination
provides superb fuel economy and we Click here for video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U4s9XTenIrU

MOTORING | Spring 2021 | 15