Source : INDIA TODAY NEWS
Kia Sonet has received its Model Year 2026 (MY26) update in India, with Kia expanding the compact SUV’s automatic transmission lineup to make it more accessible to buyers. The updated range introduces a diesel automatic variant starting at Rs 9.77 lakh and a turbo-petrol dual-clutch automatic starting at Rs 9.89 lakh (ex-showroom).
With these additions, the Sonet becomes the first SUV in its segment to offer both a 6-speed torque-converter automatic (6AT) and a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (7DCT) at prices below Rs 10 lakh.
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Wider availability of automatic variants
The update focuses primarily on improving accessibility to automatic transmissions across more trims. The 1.5-litre diesel engine paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission is now available in HTE(O), HTK(O), HTK+, and HTK+(O) variants.
Meanwhile, the 1.0-litre turbo-petrol engine with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox is offered in HTK(O) and HTK+(O) variants.
The move comes as demand for automatic vehicles continues to rise in India, particularly in urban areas where increasing traffic congestion is pushing buyers towards more convenient driving options. Automatic transmissions reduce driver fatigue in stop-and-go conditions while improving everyday usability.
Kia Sonet automatic price (ex-showroom)
Engine and powertrain options
The Sonet continues to be offered with three engine choices.
The 1.0-litre turbo-petrol engine produces 120bhp and 172Nm of torque and is paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The 1.5-litre diesel engine delivers 116bhp and 250Nm of torque and is available with a 6-speed torque-converter automatic gearbox.
Alongside these, the SUV also offers a 1.2-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine producing 83bhp and 115Nm of torque, which is available exclusively with a 5-speed manual transmission.
The addition of diesel automatic variants is expected to appeal to customers seeking the fuel efficiency of a diesel engine combined with the ease of an automatic transmission, making it suitable for both city commutes and highway drives.
New colour and feature highlights
Kia has also introduced a new Magma Red exterior colour option for the MY26 Sonet, aimed at enhancing the SUV’s youthful and sporty character.
The Sonet continues to offer a feature-rich package including 15 standard safety features, Level 1 ADAS with 10 functions, and more than 70 connected car features.
Strong market performance
Since its launch in 2020, the Sonet has become one of the brand’s most successful models in India. The compact SUV recently crossed the 5-lakh sales milestone, reinforcing its position as a key contributor to Kia’s growth in the highly competitive sub-4-metre SUV segment.
With the MY26 update, Kia is aiming to strengthen the Sonet’s appeal further by making automatic driving accessible to a broader set of customers while retaining its strong mix of design, technology and powertrain options.
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SOURCE :- TIMES OF INDIA
