JUST more than a year ago, Kia launched the all-new Sonet.
Since then, more than 3 500 motorists have found themselves in the driver’s seat of the SUV reinforcing the Sonet as one of Mzansi’s most popular compact crossovers.
Now they have taken things a step further and introduced the new 1.0 T-GDi turbocharged derivatives.
Supplementing the critically acclaimed Sonet range, powered by a naturally aspirated 1.5-litre engine in entry-level LX and mid-tier EX specification, the new Kia Sonet 1.0 T-GDi options build on the current range and offers a new flagship in EX+ specification.
“The Sonet was one of the most anticipated new Kia models in several years when it was introduced to the South African market in April 2021,” said sales and marketing director at Kia South Africa, Stephen Crosse.
The new Kia
Sonet 1.0 T-GDi is equipped with Kia’s advanced 1.0-litre, 3-cylinder
turbo-petrol engine mated with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission
(7DCT).
A new engine in the local Kia stable, the 1.0 T-GDi boasts outputs of 88kW at 6,000 r/min and a stout 172 Nm of torque on a plateau from 1,500-4,000 r/min.
This new
engine places easy-driving characteristics at the forefront, balancing more
than sufficient punch for safe overtaking manoeuvres with low engine speeds at
highway velocities for improved fuel consumption and refinement and a
satisfyingly sporty 3-cylinder thrum. In the combined cycle, the 1,0 T-GDi
option emits a mere 137 g/km of CO2 emissions.
