If you plan to buy a compact SUV and the Kia Sonet is on your wishlist, it’s worth knowing about its top competitors before making a final decision. In today’s market, Indian buyers have many budget-friendly SUV options with great features, good mileage, strong performance, and solid safety ratings.
Among the best in the segment are the Maruti Suzuki Brezza, Tata Nexon, and Hyundai Venue, which are direct rivals to the Kia Sonet. Let’s look at how these four cars stack up regarding price, features, mileage, and safety.
Kia Sonet: Stylish SUV With Strong Mileage
The Kia Sonet has quickly become one of the most talked-about compact SUVs in the Indian market. It offers a modern look, multiple engine choices, and several variants suited for different budgets.
Price Range
₹8 lakh to ₹15.60 lakh (ex-showroom)
Engine Options
- 1.2L petrol (NA)
- 1.0L turbo petrol
- 1.5L diesel
Power & Torque
- Power: 81.8 to 118 bhp
- Torque: 115 to 250 Nm
Mileage
18.4 to 24.1 km (varies by variant and engine)
Transmission Options
Manual and automatic are both available
Boot Space & Tank
- Boot space: 385 litres
- Fuel tank: 45 litres
Safety Rating
3-Star Global NCAP (basic variant tested)
The Sonet has features like a touchscreen infotainment system, wireless charging, ventilated seats (in top variants), and connected car tech. However, the safety rating is not the highest in its class.
Maruti Suzuki Brezza: Reliable & Efficient SUV for Indian Roads
Maruti Suzuki Brezza is known for being low maintenance and offering excellent after-sales service. It’s a go-to SUV for many Indian families looking for fuel efficiency, comfort, and affordability.
Price Range
₹8.69 lakh to ₹14.14 lakh (ex-showroom)
Engine
1.5L K-Series petrol engine (1462 cc)
Power & Torque
- Power: 86.63 to 101.64 bhp
- Torque: 121.5 to 136.8 Nm
Mileage
18 to 20 km
Transmission
Manual and automatic available
Safety Rating
4-Star Global NCAP
Brezza is easy to maintain and has decent features like cruise control, a 7-inch touchscreen, and a sunroof in higher trims. It is a strong option for long-term reliability without extra cost.
Tata Nexon: Highest Safety in the Segment
Tata Nexon is a strong competitor that shines in terms of safety. It’s the first Indian car to get a 5-star Global NCAP safety rating, making it one of the safest choices in this category.
Price Range
₹8.00 lakh to ₹15.60 lakh (ex-showroom)
Engine Options
- 1.2L turbo petrol (1199 cc)
- 1.5L diesel (1497 cc)
Power & Torque
- Power: 99 to 118.27 bhp
- Torque: 170 to 260 Nm
Mileage
17 to 24 km
Boot Space
382 litres
Transmission
Available in both manual and automatic
Nexon also has features such as a digital instrument cluster, touch infotainment system, connected tech, wireless charger, and even ventilated seats in top trims. It is ideal for buyers who prioritize safety and value for money.
Hyundai Venue: Premium Features in a Compact Package
The Hyundai Venue is a smartly designed SUV with a premium feel with its features and interior quality. It appeals primarily to urban buyers who want a feature-loaded small SUV.
Price Range
₹7.94 lakh to ₹13.62 lakh (ex-showroom)
Engine
1.0L turbo petrol (998 cc)
Power & Torque
- Power: 118 bhp @6000rpm
- Torque: 172 Nm @1500-4000rpm
Mileage
16 km (for turbo petrol)
Boot Space & Tank
- Boot space: 350 litres
- Fuel tank: 45 litres
Safety Rating
4-Star Global NCAP
Venue stands out with connected car features, premium finish, sunroof, and good ride quality. It’s a good option for buyers who value technology and a smooth city drive.
Key Comparison: Kia Sonet vs. Brezza vs. Nexon vs. Venue
| Feature | Kia Sonet | Maruti Brezza | Tata Nexon | Hyundai Venue |
| Starting Price | ₹8 lakh | ₹8.69 lakh | ₹8 lakh | ₹7.94 lakh |
| Top Price | ₹15.60 lakh | ₹14.14 lakh | ₹15.60 lakh | ₹13.62 lakh |
| Mileage (kmpl) | 18.4 – 24.1 | 18 – 20 | 17 – 24 | 16 |
| Safety Rating | 3 Star | 4 Star | 5 Star | 4 Star |
| Engine Power (bhp) | 81.8 – 118 | 86.63 – 101.64 | 99 – 118.27 | 118 |
| Boot Space (litres) | 385 | Not specified | 382 | 350 |
| Transmission | Manual/Auto | Manual/Auto | Manual/Auto | Manual/Auto |
Which SUV Is Right for You?
- Buy the Kia Sonet if you want a stylish car with good mileage and modern features.
- Pick the Maruti Brezza if you need low-cost maintenance and trusted reliability.
- Choose Tata Nexon for top-notch safety and solid engine options.
- Go for Hyundai Venue if the premium interior and features matter the most to you.
Each SUV has its strengths. If safety is your top concern, Nexon leads. If you want peace of mind with long-term service, Brezza remains a strong pick. For a feature-rich experience, the Kia Sonet and Hyundai Venue give good competition.
Sources: Kia Motors, Maruti Suzuki, Tata Motors, Hyundai India
