Kia Syros Base Model vs Sonet Base Model – Which is More VFM?

The Kia Syros and Sonet are compact SUVs which belong to one of the fastest-expanding categories in our market

In this post, I am comparing the Kia Syros base model with the Kia Sonet base model. Note that both these are sub-4m compact SUVs. This is a rapidly expanding market space. People who would otherwise go for premium hatchbacks, now have the option of owning an SUV without having to shell out a fortune. That is the biggest appeal of this market space. In fact, that has caused a huge dent in the sales figures of premium hatchbacks and compact sedans. For now, let us take a look at the details of what the entry-level trims of these two SUVs offer.

Kia Syros Base Model vs Sonet Base Model – Price

The base trim of the Kia Syros is called HTK. It bears a starting price of Rs 9 lakh, ex-showroom. This is quite an attractive price point when you look at the kind of amenities it offers. On the other hand, the Kia Sonet base trim is known as HTE. It has a price tag of Rs 8 lakh, ex-showroom. Therefore, the two SUVs offer a price gap of a significant Rs 1 lakh.

Kia Syros Base Model vs Sonet Base Model – Features

This has to be the most important aspect while deciding which SUV makes more sense for you. People often compare the features of two cars before making a choice. Since these are the base trims of these SUVs, one can’t expect them to be feature-rich. Still, let us take a look at what the Kia Syros base model comes with:

• 12.3-inch HD Touchscreen Infotainment Display
• 4.2-inch Color TFT MID
• 4-speaker Audio System
• Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
• Bluetooth Connectivity
• Steering Wheel Mounted Audio Controls
• Rear View Camera with Dynamic Guidelines
• Type-C USB Charging Ports (Front x2 and Rear x2)
• Tilt Steering Adjustment
• Centre Console with Armrest and Cup Holders
• Remote Key with Central Locking
• Electrically Adjustable ORVMs
• Manual AC
• Rear AC Vents
• Sunglass Holder
• Rear Door Sunshade Curtains
• 20 Standard Safety Features
• 6 Airbags
• Highline Tyre Pressure Monitoring System
• ABS with EBD
• ISOFIX Child Seat Mounts
• Front and Rear Parking Sensors

On the other, the Kia Sonet base model is also quite feature-laden. The top amenities include:

• 4.2-inch Color Instrument Cluster
• Semi Leatherette Seats
• All Black Interiors
• Type-C USB Charging Ports (Front x1 and Rear x2)
• Tilt Steering Adjustment
• Front Door Power Windows
• Fixed Front Armrest with Storage Box
• Central Locking
• Day and Night Rear View Mirror
• Electric Adjust Outside Mirror
• Manual AC
• Rear AC Vents
• 15 Standard Safety Features
• 6 Airbags
• ABS with EBD
• Electronic Stability Control
• Hill-Start Assist Control
• Highline Tyre Pressure Monitoring
• ISOFIX Child Seat Mounts

Kia Syros Base Model vs Sonet Base Model – Specs

Interestingly, even though the Kia Syros borrows its powertrain options from the Sonet, the base models get different mills. The Syros gets a peppy 1.0-litre 3-cylinder turbo petrol GDi engine which generates a decent 120 PS and 172 Nm of maximum power and torque, respectively. This mill pairs with a 6-speed manual transmission. The higher models get an automatic transmission with this engine along with the option of going for the diesel powerplant with manual and automatic gearbox alternatives.

On the other hand, the base variant of the Sonet is available with a 1.2-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine which is capable of generating a decent 83 PS and 115 Nm of peak power and torque, respectively. Performing the transmission duties with this mill is a 5-speed manual gearbox. Again, the higher variants even get a 1.0-litre turbo petrol engine (just like the Syros), as well as a 1.5-litre turbo diesel powerplant with manual and automatic gearbox. Clearly, the Syros has the more powerful mill of the two which will suit the needs of driving enthusiasts.

My View

Now, I am sure that choosing between these two can be quite confusing for a whole bunch of potential buyers. This is especially true since the base models of these two SUVs are Rs 1 lakh apart. That is a significant sum for most car buyers. Still, we need to look at it from the point of view of how much value are you deriving from the compact SUV. For instance, the Kia Syros might be more expensive than the Sonet, but it surely justifies the price tag with a premium interior, more features, modern tech, more practicality and space inside the cabin and a considerably more modern design language. On the other hand, if you are on a strict budget and can compromise with the in-cabin amenities, it is not a bad idea to save Rs 1 lakh and go for the Sonet. There are all the basic safety amenities, few tech and convenience functionalities and a smooth engine. In any case, you can’t go wrong with either of these.

Also Read: Kia Syros HTK+ Variant Detailed on Tape – Most VFM?