A few days ago, Kia India hosted a digital event to introduce its new identity and unveil the updated Sonet and Seltos. It also confirmed that the tweaked models would be launched in May 2021. Well, we’re barely in May, and we’ve got them! Both SUVs have received new variants, the latest Kia logos and additional features. But, before getting into the details, let’s list out their prices.

In both those tables, the blue cells highlight the newly introduced variants. And yes, model prices have gone up too.

2021 Kia Sonet

Besides getting new variants in its portfolio, the updated subcompact SUV also gets more features. Depending on the trim level, the car will pack extra stuff such as:

• Remote engine start
• Electric sunroof
• Smart key with push-button start
• Rear door sunshade curtains
• Electronic Stability Control
• Vehicle Stability Management
• Hill Assist Control
• Multiple drive modes
• Brake assist
• Voice Command for sunroof operation

The rest of the package remains unaltered, including the mechanicals. The Sonet continues to compete with Tata Nexon, Hyundai Venue, Toyota Urban Cruiser, Ford EcoSport, Maruti Suzuki Vitara Brezza, Nissan Magnite, Renault Kiger, Mahindra XUV300 and the Honda WR-V.

2021 Kia Seltos

Interestingly, Kia has introduced the option of an iMT (intelligent Manual Transmission) with the Seltos. It comes coupled to a 1.5-litre, naturally-aspirated petrol engine that produces 113bhp/144Nm. The combination is available in a single trim – HTK+. The other new addition to the list of variants is the 1.4-litre turbo-petrol engine (138bhp/242Nm) mated to a 6-speed manual transmission in GTX (O) trim.

As mentioned above, even the Seltos’ list of features has been updated with additional stuff. And here’s what it now offers over and above the previous package (trim level dependent):

• Hill Start Assist
• OTA (Over-The-Air) software updates
• Paddle shifters
• Remote engine start with manual transmission
• Beige seat upholstery, sunroof and auto climate control (HTK+ iMT)
• Additional voice commands for sunroof operation and driver-side window
• Electronic Stability Control
• Vehicle Stability Management
• Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto

Apart from those changes, the rest of the package remains the same. The Seltos is now available with seven different engine-transmission combinations. In India, the compact SUV rivals the Hyundai Creta, Nissan Kicks, MG Hector and the Tata Harrier.