Tata Nexon vs Kia Sonet: Safety, Mileage and Style — Which Compact SUV Leads the Race?

The sub-4-metre compact SUV segment remains one of the most competitive categories in the Indian automobile market. Among the strongest contenders are the Tata Nexon and the Kia Sonet, both offering multiple powertrain options, feature-rich variants, and aggressive pricing. While the Nexon positions itself as a safety-focused SUV, the Sonet appeals to buyers seeking premium interiors and advanced technology. A closer comparison highlights where each model stands.

Price and Variants

The Tata Nexon is offered in four main trims — Smart, Pure, Creative, and Fearless

, along with multiple sub-variants. Its ex-showroom prices range from ₹7.32 lakh to ₹14.15 lakh.

The Kia Sonet, on the other hand, comes in a wider lineup of nine trims — HTE, HTE (O), HTK, HTK (O), HTK+, HTK+ (O), HTX, GTX+, and X-Line. Prices start at ₹7.30 lakh and go up to ₹13.65 lakh (ex-showroom).

Engine and Transmission Options

The Tata Nexon offers three powertrain options:

• 1.2-litre turbo-petrol (118 hp, 170 Nm)

• 1.2-litre turbo-petrol CNG (98.6 hp, 170 Nm)

• 1.5-litre diesel (113 hp, 260 Nm)

Transmission choices include 5-speed manual, 6-speed manual, 6-speed AMT, and 7-speed dual-clutch automatic (DCA)

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The Kia Sonet also provides three engine options:

• 1.2-litre petrol (82 hp, 115 Nm)

• 1.0-litre turbo-petrol (118 hp, 172 Nm)

• 1.5-litre diesel (114 hp, 250 Nm)

Gearbox options are broader, featuring 5-speed manual, 6-speed manual, 6-speed iMT, 6-speed automatic, and 7-speed DCT.

Mileage Comparison

In terms of fuel efficiency, the Tata Nexon diesel AMT claims an ARAI mileage of up to 24.08 kmpl, while petrol variants deliver 17.18–17.44 kmpl. The CNG variant offers mileage of around 17.44 km/kg

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The Kia Sonet diesel leads slightly with an ARAI-claimed mileage of up to 24.1 kmpl, while petrol variants return around 19.2 kmpl. The 1.5-litre diesel manual is the most fuel-efficient in Sonet’s range.

Features and Safety

The Tata Nexon places a strong emphasis on safety, offering multiple airbags, electronic stability control (ESC), traction control, hill-hold assist

, and advanced driver assistance features in higher variants. It also includes a digital instrument cluster, touchscreen infotainment system, and connected car technology.

The Kia Sonet, meanwhile, stands out for its premium cabin experience. Key highlights include a large touchscreen infotainment system, connected car features, ventilated front seats, ambient lighting

, and a premium sound system in select variants. Safety features are present but vary depending on the trim.

Verdict

The Tata Nexon is well-suited for buyers who prioritise safety ratings, solid build quality, and a wide powertrain range, including CNG. The Kia Sonet appeals more to customers looking for stylish design, feature-rich interiors, and advanced in-cabin technology

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Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on whether buyers value robust safety credentials or premium features and styling more in their compact SUV.