What are some of the best budget cars, or value for money cars in India? Let’s look at the Kia Sonet 2024 to compare its variants for budget-conscious buyers.
In this article, we will discuss
- What a budget-conscious buyer looks for in a car
- Kia Sonet 2024 – a comprehensive analysis of its variants, features, affordability, and fuel efficiency
- How to pick the right car for you
So, can the Kia Sonet 2024 be considered the best budget compact SUV? What affordable car options does it have in its lineup? Read on.
What a Budget-conscious Buyer Looks for in a Car
A budget-conscious buyer should look for these in a car:
- Affordability – a car should be affordable, and have low maintenance costs
- Fuel efficiency – The car shouldn’t guzzle fuel
- Safety features – Essential safety features are a must in a car
- Brand perception – Is the brand of the car known for its wide service network, after sales service, etc.
- Resale value – The car should fetch good resale rates
A budget-conscious buyer prioritizes value for money, seeking a vehicle that offers essential features without breaking the bank. They look for reliable, fuel-efficient cars with low maintenance costs and a decent resale value. Important aspects include basic safety features, cost-effective running, and practical functionalities.
Aesthetic appeal might be secondary to practicality and affordability. The ideal car should meet the daily commuting needs, be comfortable for small families, and offer a smooth driving experience.
Why Kia Sonet 2024 is Popular
Kia Sonet 2024 has gained popularity among budget-conscious buyers due to its excellent balance of affordability, features, and performance. It offers a range of variants to suit different budgets, each packed with essential features that enhance safety and comfort.
The Sonet’s efficient engines, both in petrol and diesel options, ensure good fuel economy, keeping running costs low. Additionally, Kia’s reputation for reliability and strong resale value makes the Sonet a financially sensible choice.
Its modern design and solid build quality further appeal to buyers looking for a car that feels premium without a hefty price tag.
Kia Sonet 2024 Variants Shortlist Under Rs 10 Lakh
| Variant | Price (INR) as on 26 January 2024 |
| HTE (Petrol) | ₹799,000 |
| HTK (Petrol) | ₹879,000 |
| HTE Diesel | ₹979,000 |
| HTK Plus (Petrol) | ₹990,000 |
Kia Sonet HTE (Petrol)
The base variant with essential features like power steering, airbags, and ABS. Suitable for buyers prioritizing essential safety and functionality.
Kia Sonet HTK (Petrol)
Offers additional comfort features like rear AC vents and power windows, appealing to those who can stretch their budget for more convenience.
Kia Sonet HTE Diesel
Ideal for buyers who prefer diesel for its fuel efficiency and long-term cost savings, despite the higher initial cost.
Kia Sonet HTK Plus (Petrol)
Provides a balance of comfort and technology with an 8-inch touchscreen and steering-mounted controls.
Our Pick for the Best Kia Sonet 2024 Variant for Budget-conscious Buyers
The Kia Sonet HTK (Petrol) at ₹879,000 emerges as the best variant for budget-conscious buyers. It strikes a perfect balance between affordability and the provision of essential features. This variant includes a touchscreen, rear parking sensors, and power windows, ensuring a comfortable driving experience without significantly stretching the budget.
The HTK variant’s price point is a sweet spot for those who want a bit more than the basic amenities but are mindful of their spending. Its inclusion of safety features like airbags and ABS aligns with the primary concerns of budget-conscious buyers, making it a practical choice.
The Top 3 Choices
- Kia Sonet HTK (Petrol)
- Kia Sonet HTE (Petrol)
- Kia Sonet HTK Plus (Petrol)
| Feature | Sonet HTK (Petrol) | Sonet HTE (Petrol) | Sonet HTK Plus (Petrol) |
| Touchscreen | Yes | No | Yes |
| Rear Parking Sensors | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Power Windows – Front | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Power Windows – Back | Yes | No | Yes |
| Airbags | 6 | 6 | 6 |
| ABS | Yes | Yes | Yes |
How to Pick the Right Car for You
- Kia Sonet HTK (Petrol): Offers a good mix of comfort and technology at a reasonable price, making it ideal for budget-conscious buyers.
- Kia Sonet HTE (Petrol): The most affordable option, suitable for buyers with strict budget constraints. Offers basic yet essential features.
- Kia Sonet HTK Plus (Petrol): A slightly higher-priced variant that provides additional tech and comfort features.
The HTK variant stands out for its balanced offering of features at a competitive price, making it an ideal choice for those looking for value for money. The HTE variant serves as the most affordable option, while the HTK Plus adds more features for those who can stretch their budget slightly.
If you’re interested in reading more such guides to popular car variants, head over to our Buying Advice section.
