Strengthening its presence in India’s highly competitive compact SUV market, Kia India has introduced the Model Year 2026 (MY26) edition of the Kia Sonet, expanding the model’s automatic transmission portfolio with new variants across diesel automatic and turbo petrol powertrains.
With prices starting at ₹9,77,900 and ₹9,89,900 (ex-showroom) respectively, the MY26 Sonet brings both diesel automatic and turbo petrol 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (7DCT) options within the sub-₹10 lakh price band, making automatic mobility more accessible to a wider group of customers.
Responding To The Rise Of Automatic Driving
The update comes at a time when urban traffic congestion and changing customer preferences are driving increased demand for automatic vehicles. Many buyers are now prioritising convenience, smoother driving experiences and reduced fatigue during daily commutes.
Recognising this shift, Kia India has expanded the Sonet’s automatic range—already one of the widest in its segment—by introducing automatic technology across a broader set of trims.
The 1.5-litre diesel engine paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission is now available across HTE(O), HTK(O), HTK+, and HTK+(O) variants. Meanwhile, the 1.0-litre turbo petrol engine with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission will be offered in HTK(O) and HTK+(O) trims.
With this move, the Sonet becomes the first SUV in its segment to offer both 6-speed automatic and 7DCT options below ₹10 lakh, addressing a key affordability gap in automatic vehicle ownership.
Combining Efficiency With Convenience
The introduction of diesel automatic variants also caters to customers seeking the fuel efficiency and long-range practicality of diesel engines, combined with the ease of automatic driving.
This combination makes the vehicle well suited for both urban stop-and-go traffic and long-distance highway journeys, offering drivers a more relaxed and convenient driving experience.
Kia India senior VP for sales & marketing Atul Sood said the update reflects the company’s focus on evolving customer needs.
“We have been closely listening to evolving customer preferences, particularly the growing demand for the convenience of automatic driving in everyday conditions. With the MY26 update, we are expanding our automatic line-up with diesel automatic and turbo petrol 7DCT options at highly competitive price points, enabling more customers to experience the ease of automatic mobility while further strengthening Sonet’s leadership in the segment,” he said.
A Proven Performer In The Compact SUV Segment
Since its launch in 2020, the Kia Sonet has emerged as one of the strongest performers in India’s compact SUV category. The model recently crossed the five-lakh sales milestone, reflecting strong customer acceptance and the growing popularity of the Kia brand in the country.
The Sonet is currently available in multiple trims with five powertrain options, combining bold design, advanced technology and a feature-rich cabin that continues to set benchmarks in the segment.
The SUV also offers a strong safety package with 15 standard safety features, 10 Level-1 ADAS features, and over 70 connected car functions, enhancing convenience, safety and digital integration for drivers.