Kia Motors has unveiled the 7-seater version of the Sonet compact SUV in Indonesian markets. Though it will be manufactured at Kia’s production facility situated in Anantapur (Andhra Pradesh), it is unlikely to be launched in the Indian market.
Design-wise, the 7-seater Sonet looks similar to its 5-seater counterpart except for the third-row seat inside the cabin. The brand hasn't made any changes to its dimensions also. However, it is important to note that the standard Indonesia-spec Sonet has a length of 4,120mm, whereas its Indian version belongs to the sub-4-meter segment with a length of 3,995mm. Both models are 1,790mm wide, 1,642mm tall, and offer a wheelbase of 2,500mm.
Apart from the added row, the Sonet 7 also gets some additional features such as dedicated roof-mounted AC vents with blower controls for the third row, and a larger 10.25-inch infotainment system (instead of an 8-inch unit). The other key features of the SUV include Apple Carplay & Android Auto, UVO Connected car tech, a wireless phone charger, a Bose 7-speaker sound system, ventilated front seats, auto climate control, multifunction steering wheel, cruise control, six airbags, ESC (Electronic Stability Control), tire pressure monitoring system, front & rear parking sensors with a rear parking camera, and more. That said, it misses out on the electric sunroof present in its 5-seater counterpart.
Under the hood, the 7-seater Kia Sonet retains the same 1.5-liter 4-cylinder naturally-aspirated petrol motor as its Indonesia-spec 5-seater model. The engine is capable enough in delivering 115PS of max power at 6,300rpm and 144Nm of peak twist at 4,500rpm. Transmission options include a 6-speed manual and a CVT automatic.
As mentioned above, the 7-seater Sonet is unlikely to make its way to our shore. Meanwhile, Kia Motors is working on another 7-seater vehicle for our country which has been codenamed KY. It is likely to arrive by late 2021.
