Apple Of The Segment?
BBC TopGear India|February 2024
2024 KIA SONET
Vipul Punetha
Apple Of The Segment?

It’s always been the shining star in its category. Maybe not in sheer numbers, perhaps not in terms of its value proposition, but the Sonet has consistently stood out as the most luxurious and impeccably finished vehicle in the compact SUV space. Kia has set out to lead the pack in 2024, and with a strategic approach, they’ve infused some of Seltos’ premium features into the Sonet. Is it an improvement? I believe so.

On paper, the Tata Nexon may come across as a larger product with more road presence, but it’s the irregular fit and finish, along with inconsistent manufacturing, that pose concerns. Standing in front of the Sonet after the Nexon, the difference is clear. The fit is top-notch, and driving the X-Line trim in Bhopal during mild showers showcased the Sonet’s well-finished paint that turned rain droplets on the bonnet into a picturesque scene.

While it may not be as substantial as the Nexon or Brezza, the Sonet holds its ground in terms of road presence. For those who understand that bigger isn’t always better, this is the best vehicle money can buy. It not only boasts the most extensive feature set, including integrated rear sunblinds, an air purifier, 70 connected features, and the largest boot space in the segment but also ensures you’re ready for a road trip adventure.

This story is from the February 2024 edition of BBC TopGear India.

Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.

This story is from the February 2024 edition of BBC TopGear India.

Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.

MORE STORIES FROM BBC TOPGEAR INDIAView All
Mercedes-Benz EQS 580
BBC TopGear India

Mercedes-Benz EQS 580

WHY IT'S HERE To prove that Mercedes-Benz is the luxe king, irrespective of what's plonked under the hood or below the cabin.

time-read
2 mins  |
Annual Issue 2024
Porsche Ice Experience
BBC TopGear India

Porsche Ice Experience

It's a game best played on ice with the Porsche 911 Dakar

time-read
4 mins  |
Annual Issue 2024
F.A.T. CAMP
BBC TopGear India

F.A.T. CAMP

Take one Goodwood Festival of Speed, shrink it down, add skis and thermal underwear... you've got a recipe for an unforgettable day

time-read
4 mins  |
Annual Issue 2024
ALL Stree DOWNHILL FROM HERE
BBC TopGear India

ALL Stree DOWNHILL FROM HERE

The Challenger is dead, for now. Will the muscle car survive? We couldn't leave California without a 1,300bhp grudge match

time-read
4 mins  |
Annual Issue 2024
A HIGHER POWER
BBC TopGear India

A HIGHER POWER

They're the gnarliest, toughest Porsche 911s of modern times - and they're called Doris and Edith. Altitude does funny things to your brain...

time-read
6 mins  |
Annual Issue 2024
VILLAGE OF THE DAMO
BBC TopGear India

VILLAGE OF THE DAMO

What do you get when you cross an R5 Turbo with a Suzuki Jimny? This is the company that decided to find out

time-read
5 mins  |
Annual Issue 2024
CINQ OR SWIM?
BBC TopGear India

CINQ OR SWIM?

The reborn Renault 5 concept promised much - does the full production version live up to the hype? Say bonjour to the EV supermini with proper Gallic flair

time-read
6 mins  |
Annual Issue 2024
THE TEAM BUILDING EXERCISE FT. CITROEN C3 AIRCROSS
BBC TopGear India

THE TEAM BUILDING EXERCISE FT. CITROEN C3 AIRCROSS

The Peppy 7-seater that Helped Me Break the Ice and Make New Friends

time-read
2 mins  |
Annual Issue 2024
FUEL THRIFT
BBC TopGear India

FUEL THRIFT

Experiments On The Atal Setu

time-read
2 mins  |
Annual Issue 2024
BEYOND THE "BADGE
BBC TopGear India

BEYOND THE "BADGE

A Symphony of Engineering

time-read
2 mins  |
Annual Issue 2024