Kia Sonet vs Kia Seltos

Read our handy guide on Kia Sonet vs Kia Seltos comparison and how our new car loans can help you in funding your car purchase.
Kia Sonet vs Kia Seltos
3 min
19 May 2025
If you're planning to buy a stylish SUV that offers either compact practicality or full-size comfort, you're probably comparing the Kia Sonet and the Kia Seltos. Both are standout models from Kia’s SUV portfolio in India, with each catering to different driving preferences and budgets. While the Sonet is ideal for urban commuters looking for value, the Seltos is tailored for those seeking premium features, enhanced performance, and a stronger road presence.

However, picking between the two means evaluating several crucial factors—price, engine performance, fuel efficiency, cabin features, and overall comfort. And if financing is a concern, Bajaj Finance makes things easier. The Bajaj Finserv New Car Loan offers quick disbursals, competitive car loan interest rates, and flexible repayment options to suit your budget.

You might already be eligible for a pre-approved offer. Check your pre-approved new car loan offer now and take one step closer to owning the Kia Sonet or Kia Seltos.

Let’s now explore the Kia Sonet vs Kia Seltos comparison in detail and see how Bajaj Finserv can support your purchase decision.

Key highlights of Kia Sonet vs Kia Seltos

The Sonet is an affordable, city-focused SUV loaded with features. The Seltos is a bigger, more premium SUV for those wanting space, performance, and added road presence.

Quick price comparison:

  • Kia Sonet: Rs. 7.99 lakh – Rs. 14.99 lakh (ex-showroom)
  • Kia Seltos: Rs. 11.18 lakh – Rs. 20.55 lakh (ex-showroom)
Pro-tip: Unsure about your budget? Check your new car loan eligibility now and explore flexible financing options with Bajaj Finserv.

Here’s a detailed look at how the two SUVs differ across engine options, fuel economy, cabin space, safety features, and overall value.

Quick comparison of Kia Sonet vs Kia Seltos

ParameterKia SonetKia Seltos
Ex-showroom priceRs. 7.99 – Rs. 14.99 lakhRs. 11.18 – Rs. 20.55 lakh
ARAI mileage18.4 kmpl (P), 19–24.1 kmpl (D)17.7–17.9 kmpl (P), 20.7 kmpl (D)
Fuel typesPetrol, DieselPetrol, Diesel
Engine displacement998 cc (P), 1493 cc (D)1497 cc (P), 1493 cc (D)
Transmission typesManual, AMTManual, AMT
Airbags66


Engine and transmission

The Sonet gets a smaller turbo-petrol engine and a refined diesel, offering a balance between economy and punchy performance. The Seltos delivers more power across its engine range, ideal for long-distance or highway driving.

SpecificationKia SonetKia Seltos
Engine typeSmartstream G1.0 TGDi / 1.5L DieselSmartstream G1.5 T-GDi / 1.5L Diesel
Engine displacement998 cc (P), 1493 cc (D)1497 cc (P), 1493 cc (D)
Maximum power119.6 PS @6000 rpm159.9 PS @5500 rpm
Maximum torque172 Nm @1500–4000 rpm253 Nm @1500–3500 rpm
Transmission options5/6-speed MT, iMT, 6-speed AT / DCT6-speed MT, CVT, 6-speed AT / DCT
Drive typeFWDFWD


Fuel and performance

Fuel efficiency is an important factor for Indian buyers. Sonet shines with its diesel variant offering up to 24.1 kmpl. Seltos delivers solid performance but with slightly lower mileage.

Fuel typeSonet mileage (ARAI)Seltos mileage (ARAI)
Petrol18.4 kmpl17.7 – 17.9 kmpl
Diesel19 – 24.1 kmpl20.7 kmpl




Pro tip: Drive longer distances or on highways frequently? Consider the diesel variants and explore Bajaj Finserv New Car Loan to finance your pick easily.

Dimension and capacity

The Seltos is larger in every measurable way, offering more cabin room and boot space. However, the Sonet is easier to drive in congested city streets and parking spaces.

ParameterKia SonetKia Seltos
Length3995 mm4365 mm
Width1790 mm1800 mm
Height1642 mm1645 mm
Wheelbase2500 mm2610 mm
Ground clearance205 mm190 mm
Boot space385 litres433 litres
Kerb weight1346 kg1320 – 1400 kg




Design and exterior

Both SUVs sport Kia’s signature Tiger Nose grille and LED lighting. The Sonet has a compact, muscular look with sporty elements, while the Seltos carries a more mature and premium road presence with sleeker lines and a bold stance.

Interior and cabin space

Seltos offers more legroom, shoulder space, and rear-seat comfort. Sonet feels more compact but still impresses with quality materials, digital displays, and leatherette upholstery in top variants.

Technology and infotainment

Both models are packed with tech. Sonet features a 10.25-inch infotainment screen (top variants), wireless charging, and UVO connected features. The Seltos enhances this with additional features like dual-zone climate control, panoramic display, and a heads-up display.

Safety features and ratings

Both cars come well-equipped with modern safety features. The Sonet has been crash tested with a Global NCAP 3-star adult rating, while the Seltos remains untested under the updated protocol.

Safety featureKia SonetKia Seltos
Airbags66
ABS with EBDYesYes
Hill start assist controlYesYes
Rear parking cameraYesYes
ISOFIX child seat mountsYesYes
Tyre pressure monitoring systemYesYes
Global NCAP rating (adult)3-star3-star
Global NCAP rating (child)2-star2-star


Comfort and convenience

The Sonet packs segment-best features like ventilated seats, air purifier, and voice-controlled sunroof. The Seltos takes it further with premium comforts like powered driver seat, paddle shifters, ambient lighting, and advanced connected tech.

Why choose Bajaj Mall for your car purchase

Looking to bring home the Kia Sonet or Kia Seltos? Bajaj Mall offers a simple and reliable way to find the right car for your needs. The platform allows you to compare variants, use smart filters, and begin your purchase journey entirely online.

Buying a new car is quick and hassle-free with the Bajaj Finserv New Car Loan. This loan offers flexible EMI plans, longer repayment tenures, and competitive car loan interest rates — making it easier to manage your monthly expenses. These features are designed to give you greater financial control from day one.

Want to skip the waiting line? Check your pre-approved new car loan offer now and speed up your Sonet or Seltos booking.

To stay within your budget, try the new car loan EMI calculator available on the website. It lets you estimate monthly payments in advance and plan your purchase smartly.

Need assistance with financing? With the Bajaj Finserv New Car Loan, you can get up to 100% financing of the car’s on-road price. Check your car loan eligibility now and move ahead with your SUV purchase without financial stress.

Visit Bajaj Mall today, compare trims, finalise your pick, and take the first confident step toward driving home the Kia Sonet or Seltos.

Frequently asked questions

Which is better: Kia Sonet vs Kia Seltos?
The Sonet is great for budget-conscious buyers wanting compact performance and value. The Seltos suits those needing more space, premium features, and higher performance.

Which is safer: Kia Sonet or Kia Seltos?
The Sonet has a Global NCAP rating of 3-star (adult) and 2-star (child). Seltos safety is comparable in features but remains unrated under Global NCAP’s current norms.

Which car gives better mileage between Kia Sonet vs Kia Seltos?
The Kia Sonet diesel offers the highest mileage at 24.1 kmpl, while the Seltos diesel delivers up to 20.7 kmpl. Sonet has the edge for fuel efficiency.

Which car gives better top-speed between Kia Sonet vs Kia Seltos?
Kia Seltos has a top speed of around 170–180 kmph, while the Sonet reaches up to 165–170 kmph. Both are suitable for confident highway performance within safe limits.

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