Kia India is gearing up to launch a new variant of its popular compact SUV, the Sonet, with a factory-fitted CNG kit. The Sonet CNG will join the existing petrol and diesel versions of the SUV and will compete with the upcoming Maruti Suzuki Brezza and Tata Nexon CNG models. Here is everything you need to know about the upcoming Kia Sonet CNG engine and mileage.
Follow Us on Google News
Contents
Kia Sonet CNG Engine
The Kia Sonet CNG is expected to come with the same 1.0-litre turbo-petrol engine that powers the Sonet GT line variants. This engine produces 120 PS of power and 172 Nm of torque in the petrol mode and is paired with either a 6-speed iMT (intelligent manual transmission) or a 7-speed DCT (dual-clutch transmission). However, the power and torque figures may be slightly lower in the CNG mode, as is the case with most CNG vehicles.
The Sonet CNG will likely be the first vehicle in India to come with a turbo-petrol engine and a CNG option. Currently, most CNG vehicles in India are powered by naturally aspirated petrol engines, such as the Maruti Suzuki Ertiga, Wagon R, Alto, and Hyundai Santro, Grand i10 Nios, Aura, and Xcent.
Kia Sonet CNG Mileage
The official mileage figures of the Kia Sonet CNG are not yet revealed, but we can expect them to be higher than the petrol variants. Kia Sonet petrol variants have an ARAI-certified mileage of 18.3 kmpl for the automatic transmission and 18.4 kmpl for the manual transmission. The Sonet CNG could offer a mileage of around 20 km/kg in the CNG mode, according to some sources.
The Sonet CNG will have a lower running cost than the petrol variants, as CNG is cheaper than petrol. The current price of petrol in Chhindwara, Madhya Pradesh is Rs. 107.77 per litre, while the price of CNG is Rs. 48.50 per kg. Therefore, the Sonet CNG could save up to Rs. 4 per km compared to the Sonet petrol.
New Kia Sonet CNG Launch Date and Price
The Kia Sonet CNG is expected to launch in India in the coming months, possibly by the end of this year or early next year. The Sonet CNG will be priced slightly higher than the petrol variants, as it will have an additional cost of installing the CNG kit. The current price range of the Sonet petrol variants is Rs. 7.79 lakh to Rs. 13.35 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi). The Sonet CNG could cost around Rs. 50,000 to Rs. 70,000 more than the equivalent petrol variant.
Conclusion
The Kia Sonet CNG will be a welcome addition to the compact SUV segment, as it will offer a more economical and eco-friendly option for buyers who are looking for a stylish and feature-rich SUV. The Sonet CNG will also give a tough competition to the upcoming Brezza and Nexon CNG models, which are also expected to launch soon. The Sonet CNG will appeal to those who want a turbo-petrol engine with a CNG option, which is a rare combination in India.
Also Read This: Upcoming Hyundai Creta Facelift Interior Features, Launch Date & Price in India
FAQ
Q: What are the benefits of buying a CNG vehicle?
A: Some of the benefits of buying a CNG vehicle are:
- Lower fuel cost: CNG is cheaper than petrol or diesel and offers better mileage.
- Lower emissions: CNG produces less carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, and particulate matter than petrol or diesel.
- Longer engine life: CNG burns cleaner than petrol or diesel and reduces engine wear and tear.
- Tax benefits: Some states offer tax exemptions or subsidies for buying or converting to CNG vehicles.
Q: What are the drawbacks of buying a CNG vehicle?
A: Some of the drawbacks of buying a CNG vehicle are:
- Higher initial cost: CNG vehicles are more expensive than their petrol or diesel counterparts due to the additional cost of installing the CNG kit.
- Reduced boot space: The CNG cylinder occupies some space in the boot, reducing the luggage capacity.
- Limited availability: The number of CNG filling stations is limited in India, especially in rural areas.
- Reduced performance: The power and torque output of CNG vehicles may be lower than their petrol or diesel counterparts.
Q: How safe is a CNG vehicle?
A: A factory-fitted CNG vehicle is safe as it undergoes rigorous testing and certification by the manufacturer and complies with all safety standards and regulations. The CNG cylinder is made of high-strength steel and has multiple safety valves and sensors to prevent any leakage or explosion. However, a retrofitted CNG vehicle may not be as safe as a factory-fitted one, as it may not have the same quality and warranty of the CNG kit and may not follow the proper installation and maintenance procedures. Therefore, it is advisable to buy a factory-fitted CNG vehicle or get the CNG kit installed by an authorized dealer.
