Turbo-triple potential

TURBO-TRIPLE

POTENTIAL Words: Marius Boonzaier mariusboonzaier

Equipped with a turbo-triple, the Sonet undoubtedly has the potential to become a segment leader…

KIA SONET 1.0 T-GDI EX+ DCT

Since its introduction, the Sonet has had the potential to become the leader in the small-crossover segment. The local arm of the South Korean carmaker has now introduced the range-topping, turbocharged variants, the EX and EX+, to the line-up. The three-cylinder thrum is su ciently subdued owing to the interior build quality and smooth-shifting seven speeder. This is perhaps the model to top the Sonet range. Luggage loaded into the 392-litre boot, we set o in the top-tier EX+ derivative…

The forced-induction petrol powertrain was su ciently punchy during our drive from Cape Town to the Overberg region. The DCT ’box was decisive, swapping cogs in an unfaltering fashion. Thanks to the latter and torque availability from a lowly 1 500 r/min, overtaking was a fuss-free a air.

Solidly constructed cabin is generously equipped as standard. Gloss black trim adds sophistication, but is prone to attract fingerprints.

AT A GLANCE

KIA SONET 1.0 T-GDI EX+ DCT

In the sea of small

crossovers on our roads, the Sonet is arguable one of the most stylish. Wrapping the bodywork around a solidly constructed, feature-filled cabin and an eager turbo-triple, you have a package destined to be a winner. In addition, the Sonet ships with a five-year/ unlimited warranty and a four-year/60 000 km service plan as standard. The turbocharged variant undoubtedly has the potential to become the segment leader. Priced R30 000 less than the top-tier derivative, we’d argue the EX variant is the one to go for.

Price: R389 995 Engine: 1.0 L, 3-cyl, turbopetrol Transmission: 7-spd dual-clutch Driven wheels: F

Power: 88 kW @ 6 000 r/min Torque: 172 Nm @ 1 500-4 000 r/min 0-100 km/h: n/a Top speed: n/a Fuel consumption: 6.0 L/100 km CO2: 137 g/km

Compared to the lightweight steering, zipping about town, the steering fi rmed up once travelling at the national limit, relaying increased feedback from the front wheels. The suspension arrangement is supple, providing a comfortable drive during the journey.

A quick stop on the picturesque Clarence Drive provided the opportunity for some photographs. The sinuous mountain road did reveal that the Sonet’s boxy bodywork is prone to leaning through the bends. Although, the 190 mm ground clearance came in handy when traversing an unkempt stretch of tarmac when turning o the N2 towards our lunch stop.

Inside, the seats are neatly trimmed in artifi cial leather, replete with red contrast stitching to add some vibrance to the otherwise dark cabin. The interior is reminiscent of the Sorento’s, albeit on a smaller scale. The eight-inch touchscreen, featuring screen mirroring, is intuitive. Climate control is included, too. Safety items include six airbags, Isofi x child-seat anchorages, ABS with EBD, ESC, and hill-start assist. A

A TRIO OF TURBO-TRIPLES TO BEAT

FORD ECOSPORT 1.0T TREND AT

Price: R375 300 Power/Torque: 92 kW/170 Nm Fuel consumption: 6.3 L/100 km Boot space: 333 L Warranty: 4 years/120 000 km Service plan: opt HYUNDAI VENUE 1.0T FLUID DCT

Price: R398 900 Power/Torque: 88 kW/172 Nm Fuel consumption: 6.9 L/100 km Boot space: 350 L Warranty: 7 years/200 000 km Service plan: 3 years/30 000 km VOLKSWAGEN T-CROSS 1.0 TSI COMFORTLINE DSG*

Price: R419 600 Power/Torque: 85 kW/200 Nm Fuel consumption: 5.3 L/100 km Boot space: 377 L Warranty: 3 years/120 000 km Service plan: 3 years/45 000 km

*R-Line model shown here