Capitalizing on the trend of sunroofs, Kia has responded to the growing demand by introducing a sunroof in the Sonet HTK+ variant featuring the 1.2-litre Smartstream petrol engine. Priced at Rs 9.76 lakh (ex-showroom, India), the updated Kia Sonet HTK+ 1.2 Smartstream with a sunroof has become the most budget-friendly SUV in Kia’s Indian lineup to offer a factory-fitted sunroof.
Beyond the inclusion of a single-pane sunroof, the Kia Sonet HTK+ 1.2 Smartstream model also boasts contemporary features, including an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, a 6-speaker audio system (comprising 4 speakers and 2 tweeters), as well as automatic climate control. Additional conveniences involve steering-mounted audio and Bluetooth controls, remote keyless entry, tilt-adjustable steering, auto headlamps, and electrically adjustable outside rearview mirrors.
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Powering the Kia Sonet HTK+ 1.2 Smartstream is a 1.2-litre four-cylinder naturally-aspirated petrol engine, mated to a 5-speed manual transmission. This engine generates an output of 83 PS of power and 115 Nm of torque. In addition to the HTK+ variant, the Kia Sonet is available with a sunroof in the HTX and HTX+ variants, which are equipped with the 1.0-litre three-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine producing 120 PS of power and 172 Nm of torque. This powertrain is offered with either a 6-speed iMT or a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.
Sunroof in high demand
The decision to introduce a sunroof to the HTK+ variant of the Kia Sonet is a strategic move to enhance customer engagement. Given its affordability, the HTK+ variant is highly sought-after, and the inclusion of a sunroof aligns with the rising popularity of this feature in compact SUVs.
The addition of the sunroof to the Kia Sonet HTK+ 1.2 Smartstream variant is anticipated to sustain customer interest in the Sonet until the release of the facelifted version of the compact SUV. It is no secret that the Kia Sonet facelift is in the works, with test mules already spotted on Indian roads. Much like the Seltos facelift, the updated Sonet is expected to feature subtle exterior tweaks and a revamped interior layout.
The Kia Sonet facelift is projected to make its way to showrooms by the end of 2023, retaining the existing powertrain lineup, including the 1.2-litre 83 PS petrol, 1.0-litre 120 PS turbo-petrol, and 1.5-litre 115 PS diesel engines.
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