New Skoda Kylaq vs Kia Sonet – Which Compact SUV Offers What?

Skoda is aiming at expanding its footprint in India with its most affordable SUV yet, the Kylaq

This post captures a detailed comparison between the new Skoda Kylaq and the Kia Sonet. Both these are sub-4m compact SUVs. The Kylaq is Skoda’s attempt to enter the mass market in India. With its heavily localized MQB A0 IN platform, it is trying to price its current and upcoming breed of cars competitively to rival the other players in this crowded space. Note that almost every major carmaker has a product in this category. Hence, any new vehicle has to be extremely tempting to snatch any market share away from the leaders. That is what the Czech car marque wants to achieve. On the other hand, the Kia Sonet is an established name in this space and is considered the most feature-rich car in its class. Let us compare the two thoroughly.

New Skoda Kylaq vs Kia Sonet – Specs and Price

Let us commence with what powers these two SUVs. The new Skoda Kylaq will borrow powertrain and gearboxes from its larger sibling, the Kushaq. Hence, we will get a 1.0-litre 3-cylinder TSI turbo petrol mill that generates a familiar 115 PS and 178 Nm of peak power and torque. Performing the transmission duties is either a 6-speed manual or a torque converter automatic transmission. Since this is the same engine as the larger Kushaq, it offers scintillating performance with the Kylaq because the latter weighs less. Hence, Skoda claims a 0-100 km/h acceleration time of just 10.5 seconds. Also, the top speed is a handy 10.5 seconds. The Skoda Kylaq ranges from Rs 7.89 lakh to Rs 14.40 lakh, ex-showroom. Skoda even announced the segment-lowest maintenance cost of Rs 0.24/km for 5 years for the first 33,333 customers.

On the other hand, Kia Sonet is the most exciting compact SUV in the country in terms of powertrains. There are 3 powertrains to choose from with the Sonet making close to 20 variants in total. The engines are 1.2-litre naturally aspirated petrol, a 1.0-litre turbocharged petrol, and a 1.5-litre diesel engine which are capable of generating 83 PS / 115 Nm, 120 PS / 172 Nm, and 115 PS / 250 Nm of peak power and torque, respectively. These engines pair with multiple transmission alternatives including a 5-speed manual, 6-speed manual, iMT, 6AT, and 7-speed DCT automatic. This makes it one of the most flexible options to cater to a large range of customers. The prices start at Rs 8 lakh and go all the way up to Rs 15.77 lakh, ex-showroom. Hence, the base model of the Kylaq will definitely be more attractive.

New Skoda Kylaq vs Kia Sonet – Features and Safety

Now, we know that modern car buyers want their vehicles to boast the latest tech, convenience, connectivity and safety amenities. In essence, new-age cars have become moving gadgets. That is why carmakers equip their automobiles with all the bells and whistles to take care of the desires of the potential buyers. Firstly, let us take a look at the highlights of the Skoda Kylaq:

• 10.1-inch Touchscreen Infotainment Display
• 8-inch Virtual Cockpit Driver’s Instrument Cluster
• Stowing Space for Parcel Tray
• 6-way Electric Front Seats (segment-first)
• Ventilated Front Seats
• Automatic Climate Control
• Electric Sunroof
• Cruise Control
• Steering-Mounted Paddle Shifters
• Leatherette Seats
• Wireless Charging
• Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
• 25 Standard Active and Passive Safety Features
• 6 Airbags
• Traction and Stability Control
• ABS with EBD
• Brake Disc Wiping
• Roll Over Protection
• Motor Slip Regulation
• Electronic Differential Lock
• Passenger De-activation
• Multi Collision Braking
• ISOFIX Child Seat Mounts

On the other hand, the Kia Sonet, as I mentioned previously, is arguably the most feature-rich vehicle in this category. It even gets ADAS active safety amenities with 25 standard features to improve the safety prowess of the compact SUV. Sonet’s features list contains:

• Connected 10.25-inch HD Touchscreen Infotainment System with Navigation
• 10.25-inch Driver’s Instrument Cluster
• Segment-best Ambient Lighting
• Remote Window Auto Up/Down Function
• Rear Doors Sunshade Curtains
• Air Purifier with Virus and Bacteria Protection
• Kia Connect with 70+ Features
• X-Line with Matte Black Colour
• Diesel Engine with iMT (Intelligent Manual Clutchless Transmission) and 2 Different Alloy Wheel Designs
• Find My Car with Surround View Monitor
• Hinglish Voice Commands
• Valet Mode
• Level 1 ADAS Functions
• Highline Tyre Pressure Monitoring System
• 3-Point Seatbelts For All Occupants
• Premium Bose Audio System
• Powered Driver’s Seat
• 6 Airbags
• Lane Following Assist
• Driver Attention Warning
• High Beam Assist
• ABS, BAS
• Hill-Start Assist Control
• ESC with Vehicle Stability Management (VSM)
• Highline Tyre Pressure Monitoring System
• 3-Point Seatbelts

Design and Dimensions

The new Skoda Kylaq boasts a mini-Kushaq appearance. At the front, we witness the trademark butterfly grille which we have gotten accustomed to from the Skoda cars of the past. I like the sleek LED DRLs on the end of the bonnet with the main LED headlamps positioned on the edges of the bumper. In between, we see a sporty setup with a rugged skid plate on the bumper towards the lower half. Overall, the front section bears the upright stance of the compact SUV. On the sides, it gets chunky wheel arches and dual-tone alloy wheels with black side pillars and roof rails. Finally, the tail section consists of a shark fin antenna, compact LED taillamps connected by a black panel with Skoda lettering on it and a sturdy lower section with a solid bumper and noticeable skid plate. All in all, the SUV bears an imposing demeanour.

On the other hand, the Kia Sonet has a modern front fascia with eminent 7-shaped LED DRLs which encapsulate LED headlamps on either side of a large grille section. This part even contains chrome embellishments and a metallic insert in the lower part. Down below, we get to experience fog lamps with a prominent skid plate on the sporty bumper. On the sides, it gets chunky wheel arches which swallow the elegant alloy wheels, side body skirtings, black side pillars and roof rails. At the rear, I like the modern approach with a connected LED taillamp cluster via an LED light bar which runs the width of the car. On top, there is a shark fin antenna and a roof-mounted spoiler. Down below, we see a tough skid plate section which enhances the butch stance of the compact SUV. I must admit, both these SUVs had distinct road presence.

My View

Choosing between these two compelling propositions can be quite hard. However, it all comes down to your preferences and requirements. For instance, if you want a vehicle with a sole peppy engine with enthusiastic driving dynamics, the new Skoda Kylaq is a great option. However, the Kia Sonet offers so many engine and transmission options that these can fit the needs of just about any car buyer. The Sonet has an edge in that regard. In terms of features, the Sonet has to be the better choice. If you are tight on budget, the Skoda Kylaq makes more sense for you. However, if you want all the latest gadgets and gizmos, the Sonet should be your pick.

Also Read: New Skoda Kylaq vs Slavia – Which Skoda Offers What?