The Indian market has long received the attention of Korean carmakers who have seen its potential in the longer term. As such, they have been willing to make investments in production facilities as well as develop models just for the market since there is sufficient volume.
At India’s Auto Expo 2020 this week, Kia Motors India is not only showing off new products but also unveiled, for the first time ever, a concept model of a future global compact SUV. The concept will be developed further ahead of a launch in the Indian market in the second half of 2020.
The concept model is called the Sonet and is a preview of the third product offering from Kia Motors in India. Targeted at a demographic that is ‘always connected to the world in more ways than one, the Sonet is designed to exceed customers’ lifestyle and technology expectations’.
The Sonet has several first-in-class features, most of which are likely to be available in the production model. The dynamic and bold design incorporates Kia’s signature ‘tiger-nose’ grille, stepwell geometry within the grille mesh, ‘tiger-eyeline’ daytime running lights, and wide rear signature lighting.
The interior is designed to appeal to the young, social, connected, tech-savvy Indian customer. The cabin is fitted with a 10.25-inch infotainment and navigation system with UVO Connect and a Bose premium audio system Kia says the Sonet concept indicates best-in-class interior space.
From the pictures, the Sonet has compact dimensions so it would be taking on models like the Ford Ecosport. The engines would therefore be small, possible in the 1.0-litre to 1.5-litre range with both petrol and diesel options as well as turbocharging. An intelligent manual transmission will also be offered.
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