Kia Sonet HTE (O) News & Top Stories

The price of the newly released Kia Sonet HTE (O) and HTK (O) variants starts at Rs 8.19 lakh

  • HTE (O) and HTK (O), two new Sonet variations, are based on the HTK and HTE trims, respectively.
  • The price range for the HTE (O) from Kia is Rs 8.19 lakh to Rs 10 lakh.
  • The price range for the HTK (O) is Rs 9.25 lakh to Rs 10.85 lakh.
  • There is a choice of gasoline and diesel engines available for both new models, but only with a manual shifter.
  • The sunroof and sunglass holder from the HTK version that comes next are included in the HTE (O).
  • With a sunroof, automated air conditioning, linked LED taillights, and a rear defogger, Kia is selling the Sonet HTK (O).

The HTE (O) and HTK (O), two new lower-spec variants of the Kia Sonet based on the HTE and HTK trims, respectively, have just been released. There is a choice of gasoline and diesel engines available for both of the new (O) models.

Variant-wise Prices

New VariantVariant It’s Based OnDifference
Petrol
HTE (O) – Rs 8.19 lakhHTE – Rs 7.99 lakh+Rs 20,000
HTK (O) – Rs 9.25 lakhHTK – Rs 8.89 lakh+Rs 36,000
Diesel
HTE (O) – Rs 10 lakhHTE – Rs 9.80 lakh+Rs 20,000
HTK (O) – Rs 10.85 lakhHTK – Rs 10.50 lakh+Rs 35,000

The newest (O) variants are priced up to Rs 36,000 more than the HTE and HTK, as can be seen in the above table.

New Characteristics And Variants

At the previously mentioned price premium, Kia is providing the new variations with a few extra goodies above their respective donor grades. What’s new for each variety will be examined now:

New Variants And Features

  • HTE (O): Sunroof and sunglass holder

base-spec

  • HTK (O): Rear defogger, auto air conditioning, linked LED taillights, and sunroof

Features like front power windows, a semi-digital instrument cluster, manually adjustable ORVMs, and a manual air conditioner with rear vents are already included in the base-spec HTE. On the other hand, the HTK trim comes with all four power windows, an 8-inch touchscreen, a 6-speaker sound system, keyless entry, and a driver seat that can be adjusted in height. Six airbags, electronic stability control (ESC), and a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) are among the safety features that both share. Front parking sensors are also included with the HTK version.

Engine-gearbox Configurations

The following powertrain options are available for the new models:

Specification1.2-litre N/A Petrol1.5-litre Diesel
Power83 PS116 PS
Torque115 Nm250 Nm
Transmission5-speed MT6-speed MT

The sub-4m SUV’s higher-spec diesel models also come with a 6-speed iMT (manual without a clutch pedal) and 6-speed automatic transmission. Kia also sells the higher-end Sonet models, which have a 1-liter turbo-petrol engine producing 120 PS and a 6- or 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission (DCT). 

Kia Sonet Competitors

Maruti Brezza, Hyundai Venue, Mahindra XUV300, Tata Nexon, Renault Kiger, Nissan Magnite, and the soon-to-be Skoda sub-4m SUV are all competitors of the Kia Sonet. It also acts as a substitute for sub-4 million dollar crossover SUVs, like the upcoming Toyota Taisor and the Maruti Fronx.

Also Read: 2024 Kia Seltos 

News & Top Stories

Honda Amaze, Elevate, and City Prices Increased; Elevate and City Come With Six Airbags Normally

  • Honda updated the variant list for the Amaze and City Hybrid while making revisions to the Elevate and City’s features based on variants.
  • The current price range for the Honda Elevate SUV (ex-showroom) is Rs 11.91 lakh to Rs 16.43 lakh.
  • The current pricing range for the Honda City sedan, ex-showroom, is Rs 12.08 lakh to Rs 16.35 lakh.
  • The Honda City hybrid now only comes in the top variant, priced at Rs 20.55 lakh (ex-showroom), and does not include the entry-level V variant.
  • The entry-level Honda Amaze is no longer available; it now starts at Rs 7.93 lakh (ex-showroom).

Beginning with the new fiscal year, all Honda vehicles will now have more expensive entry-level prices. Furthermore, extra airbags are now standard on the Honda Elevate and Honda City, and the Honda Amaze safety package has received a minor update. Let’s examine the updated costs and feature sets for each model in more depth.

Prices & Updates for New Honda Features

Honda Elevate

VariantNew PriceOld PriceDifference
SVRs 11.91 lakhRs 11.58 lakhRs 33,000
VRs 12.71 lakhRs 12.31 lakhRs 40,000
VXRs 14.10 lakhRs 13.71 lakhRs 40,000
ZXRs 15.41 lakhRs 15.10 lakhRs 31,000
Automatic
V  CVTRs 13.71 lakhRs 13.41 lakhRs 30,000
VX CVTRs 15.10 lakhRs 14.80 lakhRs 30,000
ZX CVTRs 16.43 lakhRs 16.20 lakhRs 23,000

The Elevate now prices as much as Rs 40,000 more. It now shares the top price for the entry-level compact SUV model with the Skoda Kushaq.

Six airbags are now standard on the small SUV; they were formerly exclusive to the top ZX model. Additional upgrades to its features include headrest adjustments for each of the five seats and a seatbelt reminder. The semi-digital instrument cluster with a 7-inch TFT and the front visors with a vanity mirror and lid are now standard features on variants. Silver paint will now be applied on the auto climate controls for temperature and fan speed as well as the front AC vent knob.

Honda City

VariantNew PriceOld PriceDifference
SVRs 12.08 lakhRs 11.71 lakhRs 37,000
VRs 12.85 lakhRs 12.59 lakhRs 26,000
VXRs 13.92 lakhRs 13.71 lakhRs 21,000
ZXRs 15.10 lakhRs 14.94 lakhRs 16,000
Automatic
V CVTRs 14.10 lakhRs 13.84 lakhRs 26,000
VX CVTRs 15.17 lakhRs 14.96 lakhRs 21,000
ZX CVTRs 16.35 lakhRs 16.19 lakhRs 16,000

Honda has increased the City sedan’s price by up to Rs 37,000.

In addition, it now comes with seatbelt reminders for all five seats and six airbags as standard, which were previously only available on VX and above models. The VX model now has an 8-speaker sound system and a rear sunshade, while the base model receives a 4.2-inch MID in the gauge cluster.

It appears that limited demand has forced Honda to withdraw the entry-level City Hybrid model, or it soon will. The only difference between these two examples is that all five seats now have seatbelt reminders.

Honda Amaze

VariantNew PriceOld PriceDifference
EN.A.Rs 7.16 lakhN.A.
SRs 7.93 lakhRs 7.84 lakhRs 11,000
VXRs 9.04 lakhRs 8.95 lakhRs 9,000
Automatic
SRs 8.83 lakhRs 8.73 lakhRs 10,000
VXRs 9.86 lakhRs 9.77 lakhRs 9,000

The base Honda Amaze’s price has gone up by as much as Rs 11,000 now. Additionally, all five of the seats now have seatbelt reminders. It appears that the Amaze’s base model may soon be canceled in this case as well.

Honda Elevate,

Honda City Hybrid

VariantNew PriceOld PriceDifference
VN.A.Rs 18.89 lakhN.A.
ZXRs 20.55 lakhRs 20.39 lakhRs 16,000

It appears that limited demand has forced Honda to withdraw the entry-level City Hybrid model, or it soon will. The only difference between these two examples is that all five seats now have seatbelt reminders.

7 Cars Slated News & Top Stories

7 Cars Scheduled for Release in April 2024

Several new cars are anticipated to go on sale in India as the 2024–2025 fiscal year gets underway, with some of the first releases scheduled for April of this year. This month is predicted to see the release of numerous new vehicles, such as the Toyota Taisor, which is Toyota’s take on the Maruti Fronx, and the fourth-generation Maruti Suzuki Swift. Let’s examine each one in more detail (Release in 7 cars).

Toyota Taisor

Toyota Taisor

The Toyota Taisor, which is based on Maruti Fronx, is the next sub-4 m crossover SUV to hit our market. Anticipate that it will bear the Toyota emblem and have a few minor outward design modifications over the base car. It is anticipated that Toyota would equip it with the same features found on the Fronx, such as a 360-degree camera, six airbags, wireless phone charging, and a 9-inch touchscreen. There should be two different powertrain options available: a 1-liter turbocharged gasoline engine (100 PS/148 Nm) and a 1.2-liter gasoline engine (90 PS/113 Nm). A manual gearbox-equipped CNG powertrain (77.5 PS/98.5 Nm) may also be present. For the 1.2-liter engine, the available transmission options are 5-speed manual, 5-speed automatic, and 6-speed automatic transmission.

Mahindra XUV300 in 2024

2024 Mahindra XUV300

The Mahindra XUV300 is one of the Mahindra SUVs that has been waiting a long time for an update. The facelifted model has been spotted numerous times with revised design components visible, such as new alloy wheels, linked LED taillights, and LED DRLS and headlights. Images from spy cameras within the cabin have shown that it would have two 10.25-inch screens, similar to the XUV400. Advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) may even be available for the facelifted XUV300 to keep up with competitors in the premium market, such as the Hyundai Venue and Kia Sonet. Mahindra is expected to go with the same powertrain choices seen on the current SUV model, which include a 1.5-liter diesel engine and two turbo-petrol engines (1.2-liter T-GDi and 1.2-liter MPFi, for gasoline direct injection and multi-point fuel injection, respectively).

New Maruti Swift

New Maruti Swift

In its native Japan, the fourth-generation Suzuki Swift has made its debut. The latest hatchback has an updated interior and an evolutionary outward appearance that makes it more angular but recognizable. It has a brand-new 1.2-liter, 3-cylinder Z series petrol engine that produces 82 horsepower and 108 Nm. It can be mated to a CVT or a 5-speed manual transmission. Both gasoline and hybrid Swift models with optional all-wheel drive (AWD) are offered in Japan. These specs, however, can change in India, and the hybrid and AWD models won’t be taken into account. The new Swift has six airbags, blind spot recognition, auto air conditioning, a 360-degree camera, and a 9-inch touchscreen.

Force Gurkha 5-door

Force Gurkha 5-door

The Force Gurkha 5-door off-road SUV is the one that’s most eager to hit the market. After being extensively leaked for the past few years, Force appears to be getting ready for release, as the latest teaser suggests. Compared to the current Gurkha, it boasts a longer wheelbase, an additional set of doors, and other design changes. It will have a three-row seating configuration, most likely with bench seats in the second row and captain seats in the third. Anticipate receiving the same amenities as the 3-door model, such as the dual front airbags, manual AC, and 7-inch touchscreen. The same 2.6-liter diesel engine (90 PS / 250 Nm) that Force currently uses will probably be the Gurkha in its current form. The device will probably be connected to a manual 5-speed gearbox.

Skoda Superb

Force Gurkha 5-door

Having removed the Superb from retail in the first half of 2023, Skoda intends to reintroduce it, although through the completely built-up (CBU) way. The 2-liter turbo-petrol engine in the sedan (190 PS/320 Nm) was the only powerplant available. A 7-speed DCT dual-clutch automatic transmission was fitted to it. To make it a better value for the money, Skoda may even add a few extra creature comforts to the same feature list that it will have at launch. After bringing it here as a fully imported model, Skoda may even limit it as a fully loaded offering. 

The Tata Altroz Racer

Tata Altroz Racer

The Tata Altroz Racer made its debut at the Auto Expo 2023, where it was shown off as a hotter version of the hatchback. More recently, the first Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2024 featured a modified version on display. A 10.25-inch touchscreen, a 7-inch digital driver display, heated seats, and a sunroof are among the amenities available on board. Six airbags, rain-sensing wipers, and a reversing camera make up its safety net. The 1.2-liter turbo-petrol engine from the Nexon, which produces 120 PS and 170 Nm, powers the Altroz Racer Edition underneath the hood. It comes with a 6-speed manual transmission as standard and an automatic transmission option will be available soon.

Volkswagen Taigun GT Plus Sport

Volkswagen Taigun GT Plus Sport

Volkswagen unveiled the GT Plus Sport and GT Line Sport, two new, sportier Taigun SUV models, at a recent event. Both inside and out, it receives cosmetic upgrades. The GT Plus Sport has a black alloy grille and wheels. Additionally, it features red highlights within the interior, red brake calipers, and red “GT” emblems. The larger 1.5-liter turbo-petrol engine is anticipated to be available for the GT Plus Sport, along with a 6-speed manual and a 7-speed DCT. (Release in 7 cars)

We anticipate seeing a handful of these vehicles arrive on our shores around April 2024. What do you think? Which other model do you wish to see released this month in India? Tell us in the comments below.

Also Read: Three Ways India Could See A Rise In The Price Of Hybrids

Citroen Basalt Vision News & Top Stories

Citroen Basalt Vision Will Soon Be Introduced In India After Making Its World Debut

  • The Citroen Basalt Vision shares its basis with the C3 hatchback and C3 Aircross SUV, which is the CMP platform.
  • It is anticipated to have more features than India’s current C3 lineup.
  • Most likely to use the same 1.2-liter turbo-petrol engine with 110 PS that powers Citroen vehicles now on the road in India.
  • In the second half of 2024, Citroen will introduce the Basalt Vision coupe SUV in India.
  • Pricing is anticipated to start at 8 lakh (ex-showroom).

The French carmaker’s brand-new coupe SUV, the Citroen Basalt Vision concept, has debuted globally. The Basalt Vision, formerly known as the Citroen C3X, will make its debut in the South American and Indian markets. Based on the same CMP platform as current Citroen products such as the C3 and C3 Aircross, this new coupe SUV. Let’s examine its appearance and features.

Design

Design

The C3 and C3 Aircross, two current Citroen cars, are the source of inspiration for the fascia. It receives the same split headlight housing and split grille in a chrome finish. Because of its sloping coupe-like roofline, it has a sportier appearance from the side. The dual-tone alloy wheels, side body cladding, and squared wheel arches all contribute to its sporty appearance.

This SUV coupe has a lofty rear end and a boot lid that is much higher than the bonnet. Additional details on the rear include a tall bumper with a large silver skid plate and wraparound LED taillamps.

Interior & Features

Citroen Basalt Vision

The interior of the Basalt Vision concept, which Citroen hasn’t yet disclosed, is anticipated to resemble the C3 Aircross’s as well. But compared to current Citroen models, the Basalt Vision concept is anticipated to have more features, including keyless entry, cruise control, automatic air conditioning, and a push-button start/stop function.

It is expected that the C3 Aircross SUV will provide features like a 7.2-inch digital driver’s display and a 10.2-inch touchscreen. Six airbags, electronic stability control (ESC), a rear parking camera, and a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) are anticipated to be included in the Basalt Vision’s safety features.

Expected Powertrain

Citroen Basalt Vision

The Basalt Vision will probably use the same 1.2-liter turbo-petrol engine (110 PS / up to 205 Nm) as the C3 hatchback and C3 Aircross compact SUV, even if Citroen has not yet disclosed the specifics of the powertrain. A 6-speed torque converter automatic transmission or a 6-speed manual transmission will be available for this powerplant.

Anticipated India Debut

In the second half of 2024, the Citroen Basalt Vision will go on sale in India. Starting at Rs 8 lakh (ex-showroom), that is possible. As a rival to the Tata Curvv, the Basalt Vision can also be seen as a Honda Elevate alternative, along with the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Maruti Grand Vitara, Volkswagen Taigun, Toyota Hyryder, Skoda Kushaq, and MG Astor.

Hyundai News & Top Stories

Hyundai India Commences a 12-Day Summer Service Program

  • The dates of the summer service camp are March 27, 2024, through April 7, 2024.
  • includes several discounts on AC components and other services, as well as a free AC check-up.
  • A labor fee discount of fifteen percent is also provided.

Hyundai’s summer servicing camp for owners of its vehicles will run from March 27 to April 7, 2024.

Included Services:

  • Free air conditioning inspection
  • 10% off certain parts for air conditioners.
  • 15% off air conditioning service.
  • 15% off on wheel balance and alignment.
  • 15% off the filling of AC refrigerant.
  • 15% off AC disinfection products.
  • 15% off of both exterior and interior beautification.
  • 15% off when you dry clean.
  • 15% off of mechanical labor

You can only receive the mechanical labor discount if you choose PMS (periodic maintenance service).

Depending on the model you own, please get in touch with the closest official Hyundai service center to find out the specific deals and coverage.

Hyundai Cars In India 

Hyundai Cars

There are presently 14 Hyundai models available in India, including the Kona Electric and Ioniq 5 electric cars. The ex-showroom pricing of these vehicles in Delhi is between Rs 5.92 lakh and Rs 45.95 lakh, with the Ioniq 5 being the most expensive Hyundai vehicle in the country.

Read More On – Toyota Innova Hycross GX (O) Variants

7 SUVs Under Rs 10 Lakh News & Top Stories

These 7 SUVs With Automatic Climate Control Under Rs 10 Lakh

Climate control is essential for maintaining comfort when driving in India, where warm weather prevails for most of the year. But while driving, it might be annoying and distracting to constantly change the temperature and fan speed to suit your preferences. This is when climate control, another name for the auto air conditioning option, comes in useful. These seven SUVs under Rs 10 lakh provide you with the luxury of automatic climate control if you’re in the market for a new vehicle, with SUVs being the most popular automobile class in India right now.

Tata Punch

Tata Punch

The Tata Punch micro-SUV has a price range of Rs 6.13 lakh to Rs 10.20 lakh (ex-showroom), and its top-spec Creative variant costs Rs 8.85 lakh (ex-showroom) and comes with automatic temperature control. The facelifted Punch, which Tata is presently developing, should be released later this year. The highest form of the Punch EV, which is a more expensive pure-electric vehicle, also comes with ventilated front seats 7 SUVs With Automatic Climate.

Hyundai Exter

Hyundai Exter

This feature is also included in the Hyundai Exter, the other model in the micro-SUV sector. From its mid-spec SX model, which starts at Rs 8.23 lakh (ex-showroom), the Exter offers this function. Its prices range from Rs 6.13 lakh to Rs 10.28 lakh (ex-showroom). 7 SUVs With Automatic Climate 

Nissan Magnite

Nissan Magnite

Next up in the subcompact SUV category is the Nissan Magnite, which is available in an XL form above the standard model and includes automatic climate control. At Rs 7.04 lakh (ex-showroom), this subcompact SUV model is the most reasonably priced one on our list. The price range for the magnite (ex-showroom) is Rs 6 lakh to Rs 11.27 lakh.

Renault Kiger

Renault Kiger

This feature is also available on the Renault Kiger, similar to the Magnite, although it is only available on the one-below-top RXT (O) variant, which costs Rs 8 lakh and up. Its climate control panel is the same as that of the Magnite because it is based on it. The ex-showroom price range for the Kiger is Rs 6.23 lakh to Rs 11.23 lakh.

Tata Nexon

Tata Nexon

Automatic climate control is available on several cars for less than Rs 10 lakh, including the Tata Nexon. From the Pure grade above the base model, which starts at Rs 9.80 lakh (ex-showroom), the Tata SUV has automatic air conditioning. With a touch-based climate control panel, it is the only one on this list. From Rs 8.15 lakh to Rs 15.80 lakh (ex-showroom), the Nexon is currently priced.

Maruti Brezza

Tata Nexon

The Maruti Brezza, like the Nexon, has automated temperature control starting with the VXi variation, which is the model above base. The VXi variants are priced starting at Rs 9.70 lakh (ex-showroom). The Brezza is available for purchase for the full price range of Rs 8.34 lakh to Rs 14.14 lakh (ex-showroom).

Maruti Fronx

Maruti Fronx

These are the SUVs with automated climate control that are priced under Rs 10 lakh (ex-showroom). Do you or someone you know have plans to purchase any of the vehicles on the above list? Tell us in the comments section below.

Also Read: Hyundai Venue N Line Vs. Hyundai Creta N Line