Tata Nexon 2023 vs Kia Sonet 2024 for Long-distance Road Trip Lovers: Their Variants Priced Rs 10-12 Lakh Compared

What are the best cars for long drives, or highway driving in India? Today, we take a look at the Tata Nexon 2023 and Kia Sonet 2024, and their variants to find out what makes them comfortable cars for road trips in India.

In this article, we will share

• What a long-distance road trip lover looks for in a car
• Tata Nexon 2023 vs Kia Sonet 2024 – an in-depth analysis of their features, fuel efficiency, space, and safety
• How to pick the right car for you

What a Long-Distance Road Trip Lover Looks for in a Car

What a long-distance road trip lover should look for in a car:

• Fuel Efficiency – The car should have high fuel efficiency so that long-distance trips are economical
• Space – The car should have good space for a comfortable and enjoyable trip
• Safety – The car’s safety ratings should be high, and adequate safety features
• Handling – The car’s handling must be superior, and it should have high-speed stability

For long-distance road trips, comfort, safety, and fuel efficiency are top priorities. A spacious cabin with ergonomic seats, ample legroom, and adjustable steering ensures a fatigue-free journey. Climate control and rear AC vents keep the interior pleasant. A powerful and efficient engine delivers a smooth ride while maximizing mileage. 

Robust suspension and high-speed stability inspire confidence on highways. Advanced safety features like multiple airbags, traction control, and hill-hold assist provide peace of mind. Infotainment essentials include a touchscreen with navigation, smartphone connectivity, and premium audio. Ample boot space accommodates luggage for extended trips.

Why Tata Nexon 2023 and Kia Sonet 2024 are popular

The Tata Nexon 2023 and Kia Sonet 2024 have gained popularity among long-distance road trippers for their perfect blend of comfort, performance, and features. Both SUVs offer spacious cabins with ample headroom and legroom, ensuring a comfortable ride even on extended journeys. Their ergonomically designed seats with lumbar support minimize fatigue, while rear AC vents keep passengers cool and relaxed.

Under the hood, the Nexon and Sonet pack powerful yet efficient engines that deliver impressive mileage without compromising on performance. Their responsive transmissions and well-tuned suspensions provide a smooth and stable ride, even at high speeds. With advanced safety features like multiple airbags, ABS with EBD, and traction control, these SUVs prioritize occupant protection.

Both the Nexon and Sonet come equipped with touchscreen infotainment systems that support Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, ensuring seamless smartphone connectivity for navigation and entertainment on the go. Premium sound systems enhance the audio experience, while steering-mounted controls allow easy access to functions.

With their thoughtfully designed cabins, fuel-efficient powertrains, advanced safety features, and modern amenities, the Tata Nexon and Kia Sonet have become go-to choices for long-distance road trip enthusiasts seeking a comfortable, safe, and feature-packed SUV.

Tata Nexon 2023 and Kia Sonet 2024 variants shortlist in Rs 10-12 lakh range

For Tata Nexon 2023, we have:

For Kia Sonet 2024, we have:

Tata Nexon Pure S

The Tata Nexon Pure S, priced at Rs. 10,20,000, offers a comfortable ride with rear AC vents, power windows, and a touchscreen infotainment system. Its 1.2L petrol engine delivers a smooth and efficient performance, making it a good choice for long trips. If you’re budget conscious, you can read our guide to the best Nexon 2023 variants for you.

Tata Nexon Pure Diesel

The Tata Nexon Pure Diesel, at Rs. 11,00,000, combines the comfort features of the Pure S with a powerful 1.5L diesel engine. Its higher torque output ensures effortless highway cruising, while the 6-speed manual transmission offers precise control.

Tata Nexon Creative Plus

The Tata Nexon Creative Plus, priced at Rs. 11,70,000, adds automatic climate control, a larger 10.25-inch touchscreen, and connected car features. Its 1.2L petrol engine and 6-speed manual transmission provide a balanced mix of performance and efficiency. If you’re a gadget lover, you can check out our comparison of the Nexon 2023 with Maruti Suzuki Baleno.

Kia Sonet HTK Diesel

The Kia Sonet HTK Diesel, at Rs. 10,39,000, offers a comfortable cabin with rear AC vents and power windows. Its 1.5L diesel engine and 6-speed manual transmission deliver efficient performance, while the compact dimensions make it easy to maneuver.

Kia Sonet HTK Plus Diesel

The Kia Sonet HTK Plus Diesel, priced at Rs. 11,39,000, adds automatic climate control, an 8-inch touchscreen with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and a rearview camera. Its 1.5L diesel engine and 6-speed manual transmission provide a smooth and efficient drive. If you’re a performance enthusiast, you can check out our guide to the best Sonet 2024 variants for you.

Kia Sonet HTX Diesel

The Kia Sonet HTX Diesel, at Rs. 11,99,000, offers additional features like a sunroof, wireless charging, and leatherette upholstery. Its 1.5L diesel engine and 6-speed manual transmission ensure a powerful and efficient performance on long journeys.

Our Pick for the Best variant among Tata Nexon 2023 and Kia Sonet 2024 for Long-distance road trip lovers

After careful consideration, the Tata Nexon Creative Plus emerges as the best variant for long-distance road trip lovers. Priced at Rs. 11,70,000, this variant offers a perfect balance of comfort, performance, and features, making it an ideal companion for extended journeys.

The Nexon Creative Plus boasts a spacious cabin with premium touches like automatic climate control, which ensures a pleasant interior environment regardless of outside conditions. The ergonomically designed seats with lumbar support provide excellent comfort, reducing fatigue during long hours behind the wheel. Rear AC vents keep passengers cool and comfortable, while the ample headroom and legroom allow for easy stretching.

Under the hood, the Nexon Creative Plus is powered by a refined 1.2-liter petrol engine that delivers a smooth and efficient performance. The engine’s linear power delivery and minimal turbo lag ensure a relaxed driving experience on highways. The 6-speed manual transmission offers precise shifts, allowing the driver to make the most of the engine’s capabilities.

One of the standout features of the Nexon Creative Plus is its advanced infotainment system. The 10.25-inch touchscreen display is intuitive and responsive, providing easy access to navigation, media, and connected car features. The premium audio system enhances the in-cabin experience, making long drives more enjoyable.

Safety is a top priority in the Nexon Creative Plus, with features like six airbags, ABS with EBD, and traction control. The high-speed stability and well-tuned suspension inspire confidence on the highway, while the hill-hold assist makes starting on inclines effortless.

With its comfortable cabin, efficient and smooth performance, advanced infotainment system, and comprehensive safety features, the Tata Nexon Creative Plus is the best variant for long-distance road trip lovers. It offers a perfect blend of features that prioritize comfort, convenience, and safety, ensuring an enjoyable and stress-free journey.

The Top 3 choices

1. Tata Nexon Creative Plus
2. Kia Sonet HTK Plus Diesel
3. Tata Nexon Pure Diesel

How to Pick the Right Car for You

• The Tata Nexon Creative Plus offers a perfect balance of comfort, performance, and features. Its spacious cabin, automatic climate control, and ergonomic seats ensure a comfortable journey. The advanced infotainment system with a 10.25-inch touchscreen and connected car features keeps occupants entertained and informed. The efficient 1.2-liter petrol engine and smooth 6-speed manual transmission provide a relaxed driving experience. With features like traction control and curtain airbags, safety is well-prioritized.
• The Kia Sonet HTK Plus Diesel is another excellent choice for long trips. Its comfortable cabin features automatic climate control and rear AC vents for passenger comfort. The 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system supports Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, ensuring seamless smartphone connectivity. The 1.5-liter diesel engine offers efficient performance, while the 6-speed manual transmission provides precise control. The Sonet HTK Plus Diesel also prioritizes safety with curtain airbags.
• The Tata Nexon Pure Diesel rounds up the top three choices. While it may not have some of the premium features of the Creative Plus variant, it still offers a comfortable ride with rear AC vents and power windows. The touchscreen infotainment system keeps occupants entertained, while the spacious cabin provides ample room for stretching. The 1.5-liter diesel engine delivers a strong performance, and the 6-speed manual transmission offers easy maneuverability. Safety features like traction control and curtain airbags add peace of mind.

All three variants offer a combination of comfort, performance, and safety features that make them ideal for long-distance road trips. Ultimately, the choice among these three variants depends on individual preferences and budget considerations.

If you’re interested in reading more such face-to-face comparisons of popular car variants, head over to our Buying Advice section.