If you’re confused between the Hyundai i20 and Kia Sonet, you’re not alone. Both cars are among the top-selling options in India. While the i20 is a stylish premium hatchback, the Sonet falls under the compact SUV category. In this detailed comparison, we’ll explore their pricing, engine options, mileage, features, dimensions, and safety—so you can pick the one that suits your needs best.
i20 vs Sonet Price Comparison (Ex-Showroom India)
| Model | Starting Price | Top Variant Price |
|---|---|---|
| Hyundai i20 | ₹7.04 lakh | ₹11.25 lakh |
| Kia Sonet | ₹7.99 lakh | ₹15.77 lakh |
Verdict: The i20 is more affordable across most variants. But the Sonet justifies its higher price with SUV styling and more features.
Hyundai i20 vs Kia Sonet Engine Options and Performance
| Engine Type | Hyundai i20 (Petrol) | Kia Sonet (Petrol & Diesel) |
|---|---|---|
| Petrol (NA) | 1.2L – 83 PS / 115 Nm | 1.2L – 83 PS / 115 Nm |
| Petrol (Turbo) | Not available currently | 1.0L Turbo – 120 PS / 172 Nm |
| Diesel | Not available | 1.5L – 116 PS / 250 Nm |
| Transmission | 5MT / CVT | 5MT / iMT / 6AT / 7DCT |
Verdict: The Kia Sonet wins on powertrain diversity. It’s the better choice if you want a turbo-petrol or diesel option.
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Mileage Comparison (ARAI-Certified)
| Variant | Hyundai i20 | Kia Sonet |
|---|---|---|
| Petrol Manual | ~20.35 km/l | ~18.4–19.2 km/l |
| Petrol Automatic (CVT) | ~19.65 km/l | ~18.7–20.1 km/l |
| Diesel (Sonet only) | NA | ~21.0–22.3 km/l |
Verdict: For petrol-only users, i20 offers slightly better fuel economy. But Sonet diesel is ideal for highway commuters.
i20 vs Sonet Features Comparison
| Features | Hyundai i20 | Kia Sonet |
|---|---|---|
| Touchscreen Size | 8-inch | 10.25-inch |
| Wireless Android Auto/CarPlay | Yes | Yes |
| Sunroof | Yes (top variant) | Yes |
| Ventilated Seats | No | Yes |
| Digital Instrument Cluster | Yes | Yes |
| Bose Sound System | No | Yes |
| ADAS Safety Tech | No | Yes (top variants only) |
Verdict: The Kia Sonet clearly pulls ahead with premium features, especially in the top trims.
Dimensions: Hyundai i20 vs Kia Sonet
| Dimension | Hyundai i20 | Kia Sonet |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 3,995 mm | 3,995 mm |
| Width | 1,775 mm | 1,790 mm |
| Height | 1,505 mm | 1,642 mm |
| Boot Space | 311 litres | 392 litres |
| Ground Clearance | ~170 mm | ~205 mm |
Verdict: Sonet is taller, wider, and offers more boot space. Ideal for rough roads and family use.
Safety Features Comparison
| Safety Feature | Hyundai i20 | Kia Sonet |
|---|---|---|
| Airbags | 2–6 | 2–6 |
| ABS with EBD | Yes | Yes |
| Rear Parking Sensors | Yes | Yes |
| Electronic Stability Control | No | Yes |
| Hill Start Assist | No | Yes |
| ADAS (ADAS features) | No | Yes (top trims) |
Verdict: The Sonet has more safety features, especially in turbo and diesel variants.
Pros and Cons of Hyundai i20 and Kia Sonet
| Parameter | Hyundai i20 Pros | Kia Sonet Pros |
|---|---|---|
| Design | Sharp and modern hatchback look | Rugged compact SUV styling |
| Mileage | Slightly better petrol efficiency | Diesel engine offers high mileage |
| City Driving | Compact, easy to park | Higher seating position, good visibility |
| Features | Well-equipped but basic | Segment-leading features, ADAS |
| Safety | Good but limited | Strong safety suite with tech assistance |
Final Verdict: Hyundai i20 or Kia Sonet – Which Should You Buy?
If you’re on a tighter budget and prefer a feature-rich hatchback for daily city commutes, the Hyundai i20 is a practical choice. It’s smooth, fuel-efficient, and compact for tight urban spaces.
But if you want a compact SUV with more presence, more features, diesel options, and better safety tech, the Kia Sonet is the better pick. It’s slightly more expensive, but you get more value.
Choose i20 if:
- You want a premium hatchback under ₹10 lakh.
- You mostly drive in the city.
- You care more about mileage and refinement.
Choose Sonet if:
- You prefer SUV looks and higher ground clearance.
- You need diesel or turbo power.
- You want segment-best features and safety tech.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is the Kia Sonet bigger than the i20?
Yes, the Sonet is taller, slightly wider, and has more boot space.
2. Which car has better mileage, i20 or Sonet?
The i20 has better petrol mileage. But the Sonet diesel offers excellent fuel efficiency.
3. Which car is safer, Sonet or i20?
The Sonet is safer due to more airbags, electronic stability control, and ADAS in top variants.
4. Is the Kia Sonet worth the higher price?
Yes, especially if you go for turbo or diesel variants. The features and engine options justify the cost.
Author- Ayush
