Written by: BikeCarHub Editorial Team

Published on: 27th June 2025

Introduction

In the competitive Indian subcompact SUV segment, the Kia Sonet and Tata Nexon are two heavyweights that continue to dominate the market in 2025. Both offer sharp design, a range of powertrains, modern tech, and strong safety packages. But which one suits your needs better?

Let's explore this head-to-head comparison based on design, features, performance, safety, variants, and pricing to help you decide which one is best for you.

Design & Styling

Kia Sonet 2025

The 2025 Kia Sonet sports a refreshed look with updated LED headlamps, revised tiger-nose grille, and more aggressive bumpers. The X-Line variant adds dark chrome elements and a unique matte exterior. The Sonet retains a youthful, premium vibe, especially in its GT Line and X-Line trims.

Tata Nexon 2025

Tata Nexon received a major facelift in late 2023, which carries into the 2025 model year. It features a bold split LED headlight design, connected LED tail lamp, and a wider, more sculpted stance. It offers a sportier, muscular look with high road presence.

Verdict: The Nexon has a bolder, muscular design while the Sonet feels more premium and urban-focused. Both excel in design but cater to slightly different tastes.

Powertrain & Performance

Kia Sonet (2025) Engine Options:

• 1.2L Petrol (83 PS / 115 Nm) — 5-speed MT
• 1.0L Turbo Petrol (120 PS / 172 Nm) — iMT & 7DCT
• 1.5L Diesel (116 PS / 250 Nm) — 6MT / 6AT

Tata Nexon (2025) Engine Options:

• 1.2L Turbo Petrol (120 PS / 170 Nm) — 5MT, 6MT, 6AMT, 7DCA
• 1.5L Diesel (115 PS / 260 Nm) — 6MT, 6AMT

Both also offer multiple drive modes, but the Nexon has an edge with a smoother dual-clutch automatic (DCA) for petrol.

Verdict: Nexon offers more transmission options and a refined turbo-petrol-DCA combo, while Sonet provides excellent diesel-automatic performance.

Features Comparison

Kia Sonet Key Features (Top GTX+ / X-Line):

• 10.25" touchscreen infotainment
• Bose 7-speaker system
• 360° camera
• Ventilated front seats
• Digital cluster with navigation
• ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance System)
• Front parking sensors
• Air purifier with virus protection

Tata Nexon Key Features (Top Fearless+ S):

• 10.25" touchscreen with wireless Android Auto/Apple CarPlay
• 10.25" digital cluster
• 360° camera
• JBL sound system
• Ventilated seats
• Sunroof
• Air purifier
• Arcade.ev app suite

Verdict: Feature-wise, it's a close call. Sonet scores with Bose audio and ADAS, while Nexon has a cleaner UI, better display integration, and digital cockpit feel.

Safety Features

Kia Sonet Safety:

• 6 airbags standard across variants
• ESC, VSM, Hill Assist
• ADAS (GTX+ and X-Line only): Forward Collision Warning, Lane Keep Assist, High Beam Assist, Driver Attention Alert

Tata Nexon Safety:

• 6 airbags standard
• ESP, Roll-over Mitigation, TPMS
• 360° camera with dynamic guidelines
• Emergency call and breakdown call
• ISOFIX child anchors

Crash Rating:

• Previous-gen Nexon: 5-Star Global NCAP
• Sonet (new gen not yet tested under GNCAP 2024 protocol)

Verdict: Nexon has proven GNCAP safety credentials. Sonet gets ADAS, which is rare in this segment. It's a safety vs tech debate.

Pricing & Variants

Verdict: Prices are nearly identical across the range. Sonet offers more trims, while Nexon trims are simpler to understand and better spaced.

Fuel Efficiency

Verdict: Sonet diesel MT is the most efficient; Nexon diesel AMT leads in city mileage.

After-sales & Warranty

Kia's service experience is more premium, while Tata has improved reliability and lower running costs.

Final Verdict — Which One to Choose?

Conclusion

If you're seeking premium design, top-end diesel refinement, or ADAS, go for the Kia Sonet. But if you value proven safety, punchy petrol DCA, and a futuristic interior, the Tata Nexon is a more compelling buy in 2025.

Both are excellent SUVs—choose the one that fits your lifestyle, location, and driving needs best.

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