What are some of the best performance cars, or top sports cars in India? What makes them high-performance car models? Today, we are looking at the Tata Nexon 2023 and Kia Sonet 2024. Let’s see how their variants compare with each other in terms of performance.
In this article, we will share
- What a performance enthusiast should look for in a car
- Tata Nexon 2023 vs Kia Sonet 2024 – a comprehensive analysis of their variants, performance and features
- How to pick the right car for you
What a Performance Enthusiast Looks for in a Car
Here’s what to look for in a car as a performance enthusiast:
- Acceleration and Speed – How quickly a car accelerates, what is its top speed
- Power – How it pulls weight, how is its high speed stability, does it feel strained while going up the hills, or with AC on
- Agility – How it behaves while turning at speeds
- Driving Experience/Handling – Is the gearbox smooth and responsive, how is its steering/braking performance
Performance enthusiasts seek fast cars that deliver exhilarating driving experiences. Key attributes include high-speed stability, minimal body roll, and exceptional agility. A responsive engine with minimal turbo lag and quick power delivery is essential.
They prefer quick cars with advanced automatic transmissions for seamless gear shifts and potent torque for rapid acceleration. Enhanced driving dynamics, superior handling, and a high-quality audio system add to the immersive driving experience.
Visibility, build quality, and an engaging design are also crucial. Safety features like traction control, ABS, and a high GNCAP rating ensure that thrill-seeking doesn’t compromise safety.
Why Tata Nexon 2023 and Kia Sonet 2024 are Popular
Tata Nexon 2023 and Kia Sonet 2024 have garnered popularity among performance enthusiasts for their impressive blend of power, agility, and driving dynamics.
Tata Nexon’s variants offer a robust engine with high torque, providing quick acceleration and a thrilling drive. The Nexon also stands out for its high GNCAP safety rating, ensuring a secure driving experience.
Kia Sonet’s turbo variants excel in delivering peppy performance with minimal turbo lag and agile handling, suitable for dynamic driving situations.
Both models feature advanced infotainment systems, offering a connected and entertaining drive. Their stylish designs and quality interiors appeal to those who value aesthetics as much as performance.
Tata Nexon 2023 and Kia Sonet 2024 Variants Shortlist in Rs 12-14 Lakh Range
For Tata Nexon 2023, we have:
| Variant | Price (INR) as on 30 January 2024 |
| Creative Plus S | ₹12,20,000 |
| Creative Diesel AMT | ₹13,00,000 |
For Kia Sonet 2024, we have:
| Variant | Price (INR) as on 30 January 2024 |
| HTX Turbo DCT | ₹12,29,000 |
| HTX Plus Turbo iMT | ₹13,39,000 |
| HTX Plus Diesel | ₹13,69,000 |
Tata Nexon Creative Plus S
Offers an engaging manual transmission with a strong engine, balancing power and control for performance enthusiasts. If you’re safety conscious, you can read our comparison of the Nexon 2023 with Renault Kiger.
Tata Nexon Creative Diesel AMT
Combines diesel torque with the convenience of AMT, offering a punchy and effortless driving experience. If you’re a budget-conscious car buyer, you can read our guide to the best Nexon 2023 variants for you.
Kia Sonet HTX Turbo DCT
Features a DCT transmission with a turbocharged petrol engine for quick acceleration and smooth shifts. You can also check out our guide to the best Sonet 2024 variants for first-time car buyers.
Kia Sonet HTX Plus Turbo iMT
The iMT provides a unique blend of manual control and automatic convenience, paired with a turbocharged engine.
Kia Sonet HTX Plus Diesel
A diesel variant that delivers high torque, suitable for enthusiasts who prefer strong low-end performance.
Our Pick for the Best Variant among Tata Nexon 2023 and Kia Sonet 2024 for Performance Enthusiasts
The Tata Nexon Creative Diesel AMT stands out as the best variant for performance enthusiasts. Priced at ₹13,00,000, it offers the best of both worlds – the torque-rich performance of a diesel engine and the convenience of an AMT. Its high torque output ensures brisk acceleration, making it ideal for quick overtakes and spirited driving.
The Nexon’s robust build quality and 5-Star GNCAP safety rating add to its appeal, ensuring safety without compromising on performance. Its well-tuned suspension strikes a perfect balance between agility and comfort, making it an excellent choice for performance-oriented drivers.
The Top 3 Choices
- Tata Nexon Creative Plus S
- Tata Nexon Creative Diesel AMT
- Kia Sonet HTX Turbo DCT
| Feature | Nexon Creative Plus S | Nexon Creative Diesel AMT | Sonet HTX Turbo DCT |
| Transmission | Manual | AMT | DCT |
| Engine Power (BHP) | 118.27 | 113.31 | 118 |
| Torque (Nm) | 170 | 260 | 172 |
| GNCAP Rating | 5-Star | 5-Star | Not Available |
| Fuel Type | Petrol | Diesel | Petrol |
How to Pick the Right Car for You
- Tata Nexon Creative Plus S: Balances power and manual control, appealing to those who enjoy an involved driving experience.
- Tata Nexon Creative Diesel AMT: Offers the best torque among the shortlisted variants, ideal for a responsive and effortless drive.
- Kia Sonet HTX Turbo DCT: Provides a seamless driving experience with its DCT transmission, catering to those who prioritize smooth and rapid gear shifts.
These three variants stand out for their unique combination of performance, safety, and driving pleasure, making them highly attractive to performance enthusiasts.
If you’re interested in reading more such face-to-face comparisons of popular car variants, head over to our Buying Advice section.
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