I recently had the opportunity to join an exhilarating media drive organized by ACMobility for the Kia Sonet. The journey from Bonifacio Global City (BGC) to the scenic heights of Tagaytay offered a comprehensive experience of the Kia Sonet’s capabilities, from its advanced features to its performance on challenging roads. I also had the chance to drive the Sonet myself, adding a personal perspective to its impressive performance.
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Comfort and Convenience
With four of us in the car, the Kia Sonet’s premium interior was immediately apparent. From the driver’s seat to the back, the plush seats and spacious cabin provided exceptional comfort, making the drive enjoyable for everyone. As a passenger in the back, I appreciated the ample legroom and the supportive seats, which made the long drive pleasant. The 10.25-inch driver’s display and infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration ensured that entertainment and navigation were seamlessly accessible, adding to the overall convenience. The addition of a sunroof further enhanced the cabin’s ambiance, allowing natural light to pour in and providing a panoramic view of the sky.
Advanced Driving Assistance Systems (ADAS)
The Kia Sonet’s DriveWise suite of advanced safety features was a standout aspect of the drive. When I took the wheel, the Lane Keeping Assist and Lane Following Assist provided a reassuring layer of safety, gently guiding the car back into its lane when necessary. The Forward Collision Avoidance system was particularly impressive, with its ability to detect potential hazards and apply the brakes automatically, adding an extra layer of protection. Cruise Control made the highway stretches effortless, allowing me to relax and enjoy the journey even more.
Performance on Challenging Roads
The drive to Tagaytay involved navigating steep climbs and winding roads, which the Kia Sonet handled with remarkable ease. Powered by a 1.5-liter 4-cylinder Smartstream gasoline engine paired with an Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT), the Sonet delivered a smooth and responsive drive. Its 115 PS of power and 144 Nm of torque were more than adequate for tackling the inclines of Ligaya Drive. The high ground clearance proved invaluable when encountering rough patches and occasional waterlogged sections, ensuring a smooth and confident ride. As a driver, I found the handling precise and responsive, making the climbs and sharp turns easy to manage.
Ease of Handling for All Drivers
One of the most impressive aspects of the Kia Sonet is how easy it is to handle, making it particularly suitable for young drivers or those new to driving. The responsive steering and intuitive controls ensure that maneuvering through city streets, driving on the expressway, or taking on challenging roads is a breeze. The convenience of having essential features within easy reach on the steering wheel enhances the driving experience, providing both young drivers and experienced ones with confidence and control.
Versatility and Reliability
Whether driving on well-paved highways, climbing steep mountain roads, or navigating through rough and uneven terrain, the Sonet delivered consistently reliable performance. The high clearance provided peace of mind when driving through areas prone to flooding, and the robust suspension system absorbed shocks from rough roads, maintaining passenger comfort throughout the journey. As a passenger, the ride was smooth and comfortable, while as a driver, the vehicle’s stability and control were evident.
Spacious Luggage Compartment
In addition to its other strengths, the Kia Sonet boasts a spacious luggage compartment. The rear cargo area is generous, easily accommodating luggage for a weekend getaway or the gear for an extended road trip. The ample storage space ensures that you can load more items without compromising passenger comfort, making the Sonet a practical choice for those who need both passenger space and cargo capacity.
Final thoughts
The media drive with the Kia Sonet was a comprehensive demonstration of the vehicle’s impressive capabilities. Its blend of comfort, advanced technology, and reliable performance makes it a compelling choice for those seeking a versatile subcompact SUV. Whether you’re navigating urban streets, embarking on a road trip to the mountains, or driving through challenging conditions, the Kia Sonet is equipped to handle it all with ease and style. For anyone in the market for a feature-packed, comfortable, and high-performing SUV, the Kia Sonet is undoubtedly worth considering.
Related: Loving the Journey with the Kia Sonet: An Inspiring Road Trip with Kia’s Latest Subcompact SUV
