The Made-in-India Kia Sonet was recently subjected to Global NCAP (New Car Assessment Programme) crash tests. The subcompact SUV secured a 1-star safety rating for Adult Occupant Protection, scoring 21.29 points out of 34 points. For Child Occupant Protection, the SUV received a 3-star rating with a score of 28.57 out of a maximum 49.
Also Read: 4 New Kia SUVs Coming By 2027
It’s important to note that the model tested by Global NCAP was an India-manufactured export version for the South African market, where it’s available with two airbags as standard. The India-spec Sonet offers six airbags and ESC (electronic stability control) across the range.
Why did the Kia Sonet Fail?
One of the biggest concerns was the unstable footwell area and bodyshell of the SUV. It was not capable of withstanding further loadings. Another major issue was the poor chest protection in the side impact test that severely affected the adult occupant protection score. While head and pelvis protection was rated as ‘Good’, the abdomen protection was rated as ‘Adequate’ and the chest was rated as ‘Poor’.
Global NCAP also didn’t conduct the side pole impact test as the tested model was missing on curtain airbags. Side-head protection airbags are considered as one of the most effective measures for protecting occupants during side collisions and rollovers.
Furthermore, the South Africa-spec Kia Sonet offered weak child protection due to the absence of three-point seatbelts in all seating positions, lack of a passenger airbag deactivation switch and a low child restraint system (CRS) installation score (4.57 points out of 12 points). However, the SUV achieved a full dynamic score of 24 out of 24 points.
Next-Gen Kia Sonet For India
In India, the Kia Sonet is set to for a generational upgrade in 2027. The all-new model is expected to receive radical design changes and a more premium and tech-loaded interior along with a new strong hybrid powertrain. However, the Sonet hybrid is expected to arrive in 2028 or 2029.
