Kia Sonet vs Škoda Kylaq (2025) – Compact SUVs Redefined

Kia Sonet vs Škoda Kylaq (2025) – Compact SUVs Redefined

27 Jun 2025

Written by: BikeCarHub Editorial Team

Published on: 3rd July 2025

Introduction

In the crowded Indian sub 4 m SUV segment, the Kia Sonet and Škoda Kylaq stand out—each targeting a different audience. The Sonet continues to wow with tech-rich value and stylish appeal, while the Kylaq brings European refinement and safety credentials. Based strictly on official 2025 specifications, here's a detailed comparison across key categories:

Value Proposition & Positioning

Kia Sonet (2025)

  • Builds on a proven platform (K2) with a mid-2024 facelift, offering refreshed design and upgraded interiors.
  • Official price range: ₹7.99--15.76 L ex-showroom.

Škoda Kylaq (2025)

  • Škoda's first sub-4m SUV on the MQB A0-IN platform, offering a European driving experience priced from ₹7.89 L.
  • Positioned as a compact SUV with safety and sophistication based on proven Volkswagen-Škoda DNA.

Engine & Powertrain

Both vehicles offer distinct engine lineups reflecting their brand philosophies.

Kia Sonet

  • 1.2 L NA petrol: 61 kW (≈82 PS), 115 Nm, 5MT.
  • 1.0 L turbo petrol (T‑GDi): 88 kW (≈120 PS), 172 Nm, available with iMT or 7-speed DCT.
  • 1.5 L diesel (CRDi VGT): 85 kW (≈115 PS), 250 Nm, with 6MT or first-in-segment 6-speed AT.

Škoda Kylaq

  • 1.0 L TSI turbo petrol: 85 kW (115 PS), 178 Nm, mated to 6MT or 6-speed torque converter AT with paddle shifters.

Verdict: Sonet offers more powertrain variety; Kylaq focuses on its polished 1.0 TSI unit with European finesse.

Performance & Drive Experience

  • Sonet's turbo engine accelerates briskly, with responsive midrange and selectable drive modes (Normal/Eco/Sport) and traction options in higher trims.
  • Kylaq achieves 0--100 km/h in ~10.5 sec, with smooth delivery and top speed of 188 km/h.

Verdict: Kylaq offers refined European road manners; Sonet delivers sharper on-road performance and sportiness, especially with dual-clutch options.

Fuel Efficiency

ARAI-rated ranges (city/highway/combined):

  • Sonet Petrol:
    • 1.2 L: ~18.4 kmpl
    • 1.0 L turbo DCT: ~19.2 kmpl
  • Sonet Diesel MT/AT: ~24.0 kmpl and ~19.0 kmpl respectively
  • Kylaq: Official numbers not cited for India, but similar 1.0 TSI petrol achieves ~20 kmpl in real-world reviews

Verdict: Sonet offers clearer efficiency data across engines; Kylaq's urban mileage is estimated around 20 kmpl.

Dimensions & Practicality

Dimension Sonet Kylaq
Length × Width × Height 3995×1790×1610--1642 mm 3995×1783×1619 mm
Wheelbase 2500 mm 2566 mm
Ground Clearance 205 mm 189 mm
Boot Space 385 L 446 L; 1265 L with 60:40 down rear seats

Verdict: Kylaq takes the lead in interior space and boot capacity; Sonet remains competitive for everyday usability.

Safety & Build Quality

Sonet

  • Standard 6 airbags, ESC, VSM, HAC, TPMS, front sensors.

Kylaq

  • Class-leading safety with 5-star Bharat NCAP, 25+ safety features, LED lighting, ESC, ABS, airbags, hill hold.

Verdict: Kylaq offers superior crash protection and a stronger safety profile; Sonet provides strong active safety standards for its class.

Interior & Technology

Sonet Features

  • 8″/10.25″ touchscreen, wireless Android Auto/CarPlay
  • 4.2″ cluster, sunroof, ventilated front seats, pure-air purifier, wireless charging, connected car tech, rear sunshade and cruise control

Kylaq Features

  • Spacious cabin with ventilated seats, Climatronic auto-AC, and comfort-biased setup
  • Connectivity suite (unspecified feature count but advanced)

Verdict: Sonet offers more mass-market technology; Kylaq emphasizes refinement and comfort with premium finishes.

Price & Variants

Sonet

  • Prices from ₹7.99 L to ₹15.76 L across 30 trims

Kylaq

  • Launch variants: Classic, Signature, Signature+, Prestige—all priced from ₹7.89 L

Verdict: Sonet spans a wide pricing range with strong value; Kylaq positions itself as a more focused player with European dynamics.

Ownership & Usability

Sonet

  • Backed by Kia's rapid-growing service network and smart EV-ready options
  • Proven on Indian roads with strong resale value

Kylaq

  • Built on Euro-engineered chassis; Škoda's heritage ensures solid build reliability
  • Limited dealerships but premium ownership experience

Final Verdict

Priority Best Pick
Maximum Safety & Space Škoda Kylaq
Tech-rich, Value-centric Kia Sonet
Driving Engagement & Performance Sonet Turbo DCT
Ride Comfort & Build Kylaq
Range of Engine Options Sonet
SUV Looks & Road Presence Kylaq

Final Takeaway

  • Choose Kia Sonet if you want a versatile, tech-packed SUV with multiple options and peppy performance—especially the turbo-DCT model.
  • Choose Škoda Kylaq if you care deeply about crash safety, interior comfort, and a European-grade driving experience with robust build quality.

Each SUV delivers excellence in its domain. Your final choice hinges on whether you prioritize advanced safety/build (Kylaq) or performance and connected features (Sonet).

FAQs: Kia Sonet vs Škoda Kylaq

The Škoda Kylaq has superior safety features with a 5-star Bharat NCAP rating and 25+ safety features, making it the safer choice.

The Kia Sonet offers more engine options including petrol, turbo-petrol, and diesel variants, while the Kylaq comes only with a 1.0L TSI petrol engine.

The Škoda Kylaq offers more boot space at 446L compared to Sonet's 385L, and it expands to 1265L with rear seats folded down.

Both are good for city driving, but the Kia Sonet might be slightly better due to its more compact dimensions and variety of efficient engine options.

The Kia Sonet currently has better resale value in India due to Kia's strong brand presence, but the Škoda Kylaq may hold value well due to its premium positioning.

The Kia Sonet diesel offers the best fuel efficiency at ~24 kmpl, while the Kylaq's petrol engine is estimated to deliver around 20 kmpl.

The Kia Sonet offers more mass-market tech features like a larger touchscreen, wireless charging, and ventilated seats, while the Kylaq focuses on premium comfort features.

The Škoda Kylaq is better suited for highway driving with its more refined European driving dynamics and better high-speed stability.

Kia has a more extensive service network across India compared to Škoda, which may be important if you live in smaller cities or towns.

The Kia Sonet offers better value with its wider range of features and engine options at competitive prices, while the Kylaq justifies its price with premium build quality and safety.

BikeCarHub always recommends taking a test drive of both vehicles to feel the difference yourself before making a purchase.

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