Kia Sonet MY26 Launched in India with New Automatic Variants, Prices Start Under ₹10 Lakh

New Delhi, March 13, 2026: Kia India has introduced the Model Year 2026 (MY26) version of the Kia Sonet, expanding the compact SUV’s automatic lineup with new diesel automatic and turbo petrol DCT variants. The updated model is priced from ₹9,77,900 for the diesel automatic and ₹9,89,900 for the turbo petrol 7DCT variant (ex-showroom), making automatic technology available in the Sonet lineup at under ₹10 lakh.

The expansion aims to provide greater convenience and value for customers, particularly in urban markets where traffic congestion is driving increased demand for automatic vehicles.

Wider Automatic Range in the Compact SUV Segment

With the MY26 update, Kia has broadened the automatic portfolio of the Sonet, which is already one of the most feature-rich compact SUVs in India.

The 1.5-litre diesel engine paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission (6AT) will now be available in multiple trims including HTE(O), HTK(O), HTK+, and HTK+(O).

Meanwhile, the 1.0-litre turbo petrol engine paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (7DCT) will be offered in HTK(O) and HTK+(O) variants.

With this move, the Sonet becomes the first SUV in its segment to offer both 6AT and 7DCT automatic transmissions at prices below ₹10 lakh, improving accessibility to automatic mobility for a wider set of buyers.

Responding to Growing Demand for Automatic Cars

According to the company, the expansion addresses the rising preference for automatic vehicles in India, particularly in congested urban environments where convenience and reduced driving fatigue are key considerations.

Commenting on the launch, Atul Sood, Senior Vice-President – Sales & Marketing at Kia India, said the company has been closely observing evolving customer needs and the growing demand for automatic driving.

He noted that the MY26 Sonet update introduces diesel automatic and turbo petrol DCT options at competitive prices, allowing more buyers to experience the convenience of automatic mobility while strengthening the Sonet’s position in the segment.

A Strong Performer in the Compact SUV Market

Launched in 2020, the Kia Sonet has emerged as one of the best-selling compact SUVs in India, recently crossing the 5 lakh sales milestone. The model continues to be a key growth driver for Kia India in the country.

The Sonet lineup offers five powertrain combinations across multiple trims, combining bold styling with advanced technology and a feature-packed interior.

Key highlights include:

15 standard safety features
10 Level 1 ADAS features
Over 70 connected car features

To further enhance its visual appeal, Kia has also introduced a new exterior colour option called “Magma Red”, designed to complement the SUV’s bold and youthful styling.