Kia Sonet Makes a Powerful Entry into the Philippines’ SUV Market
Kia Sonet Makes a Powerful Entry into the Philippines’ SUV Market
Parañaque City, Philippines – June 6, 2024 – ACMobility, the official distributor of Kia vehicles in the Philippines, proudly unveils the Kia Sonet, its newest SUV offering designed to conquer the entry-level segment and transform the local automotive landscape. The dawn of the compact SUV is already in full swing and Kia has just released the latest entrant the Kia Sonet. The Sonet replaces the highly successful Kia Stonic Compact SUV.
Modern Style Meets Class-Leading Features
The Kia Sonet boasts a stylish design and innovative features, available in all Kia showrooms nationwide. Prices start at PHP 758,000 for the base 1.5 LX MT variant, ranging up to PHP 1,138,000 for the top-of-the-line 1.5 SX AT. This modern SUV bolsters Kia’s comprehensive SUV lineup, promising a fun, safe, and comfortable driving experience on any road.
“Social” Meets “Network”: A Connected SUV
The name Sonet cleverly combines “Social” and “Network,” reflecting its focus on style and connectivity. Powered by a fuel-efficient 1.5L Dual Port Fuel Injected gasoline engine delivering 115 PS and 144 Nm of torque, the Sonet offers impressive power for an entry-level SUV. Paired with either the Kia Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT) or a 6-speed Manual Transmission, this powertrain caters to adventurous young millennials seeking a balance between performance and fuel economy.
A Commitment to Filipino Drivers
ACMobility CEO Jaime Alfonso Zobel de Ayala highlights the significance of the Sonet: “The Kia Sonet is a game-changer, and ACMobility is proud to offer discerning Filipino car buyers the vehicles they deserve. Its arrival showcases our commitment to providing Filipinos with more reasons to love Kia.”
A Leader in the Entry-Level SUV Market
Kia Philippines President Antonio “Toti” Zara III expresses confidence in the Sonet’s success: “The Sonet is poised to be a cornerstone of our product lineup, accounting for a significant portion of Kia sales. We believe its stylish appeal, feature-rich package, and compelling pricing will position it as a leading choice in the entry-level SUV market.”
Innovation Meets Affordability
Kia Philippines Chief Operating Officer Brian Buendia emphasizes the Sonet’s broad appeal: “The Kia Sonet marks a milestone for us, offering style, innovation, and value at an affordable price. We’re excited to provide this modern entry SUV to young millennials and Gen Zs seeking convenience, technology, and affordability in their next vehicle.”
Bold Dimensions Command Attention
The Kia Sonet grabs attention with its robust and stylish exterior. Its dimensions (4,110mm length, 1,790mm width, 1,642mm height) provide a strong road presence while maintaining a compact profile ideal for city driving. The signature Kia Tiger-nose grille adds a masculine touch, while all variants boast 16-inch wheels and a class-leading 205mm ground clearance for tackling urban obstacles with ease.
Premium Exterior Features Enhance Appeal
The 1.5 SX AT variant elevates the exterior with Star Map Signature LED multi-reflector headlamps and daytime running lights, an electric sunroof, roof rails, rear spoiler, and a new tailgate LED strip. Additional features like projector fog lamps and chrome door handles further enhance its premium look.
Refined Comfort and Versatility Define the Interior
The Sonet’s interior offers a perfect balance of comfort and practicality. The 1.5 SX AT features luxurious leather seats, while other trims have premium cloth upholstery. Driver and front passenger seatback pockets and 60:40 folding second-row seats in the 1.5 SX AT and 1.5 EX AT variants provide ample cargo space. All variants comfortably seat five passengers and offer practical details like sun visors with vanity mirrors and a standard room lamp.
Packed with Advanced Technology
The Sonet doesn’t disappoint when it comes to technology. The 1.5 SX AT boasts a sophisticated 10.25-inch TFT LCD multi-function digital instrument cluster, while other variants feature a 4.2-inch TFT LCD display. An advanced 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto takes center stage in the 1.5 SX AT, while the LX and EX trims sport an 8-inch touchscreen with the same wireless connectivity. Every Sonet features six speakers, Bluetooth hands-free connectivity, voice recognition, and multiple USB ports (including USB-C) for seamless device integration.
Convenience Features for Everyday Driving
The Sonet prioritizes convenience. The top-of-the-line 1.5 SX AT offers wireless charging, while all variants feature power windows, central door locks, and remote keyless entry. The 1.5 AT and 1.5 EX AT add Remote Engine Start, Smart Entry, and a push-button start for added ease. Every variant comes with a full-size spare tire for unexpected situations.
Powerful Engine Delivers Responsive Performance
The Kia Sonet packs a punch under the hood with a 1.5L In-Line 4-Cylinder Dual Port Fuel Injected Smartstream gasoline engine generating 115 PS at 6,300 RPM and 144 Nm of torque at 4,500 RPM. This fuel-efficient engine is paired with either the Kia Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT) or a 6-speed Manual Transmission, ensuring smooth and responsive performance for city driving and out-of-town adventures. The Sonet’s efficient powertrain offers the perfect blend of power and fuel economy for drivers seeking both performance and savings.
Drive Wise with Advanced Safety Features
The Sonet prioritizes safety with a comprehensive suite of features. The 1.5 SX variant incorporates Kia Drive Wise advanced driver-assistance systems such as Lane Following Assist (LFA), Lane Keeping Assist (LKA), Forward Collision Avoidance Assist (FCA), Downhill Brake Control (DBC), and High Beam Assist (HBA), alongside the standard Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and Hill-start Assist Control (HAC). All variants come equipped with driver and front passenger airbags, Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS), and an immobilizer for additional security. Rear parking sensors and a rear-camera display ensure maximum visibility and safety during parking maneuvers on all variants.
A Spectrum of Stylish Colors
The 1.5 LX MT, 1.5 LX AT, and 1.5 EX AT are available in Vivid Red, Snow White Pearl, and Imperial Blue. The 1.5 SX AT offers a choice of Vivid Red or Snow White Pearl, both with a contrasting black roof. The new Pewter Olive color is exclusive to the top-of-the-line 1.5 SX AT variant.
Affordable Prices
The Price point of the new Kia Sonet is right in the sweet spot for Filipino consumers the Php 700,000 to the about Php 1.1 Million range. So From the entry Model of the LX MT which starts at Php 758,000, the LX AT which is Php 868,000, The EX AT which is Php 978,000, and the top of the line SX AT which is priced at Php 1,138,000. The price point is geared to the Filipino automotive consumer.
Experience the Kia Sonet firsthand!
Visit Kia showrooms and dealerships nationwide, or head to Ayala Malls Manila Bay at Central Garden Ring from June 7 to 9 for a closer look at the Kia Sonet. Take a test drive and discover why the Sonet is poised to redefine the entry-level SUV segment in the Philippines. For more information, visit the Kia Philippines website: https://www.kia.com/ph/main.html.
