REPRESENTATIVE PHOTOHyundai Motor Group / PexelsOur verdict
7.0 / 10The Kia Sonet is a strong value proposition in the UAE's subcompact SUV segment, offering a well-equipped cabin, reliable 1.5L petrol powertrain, and the backing of Al Majid Motors' extensive service network at a competitive price point. The Type 14 trim adds meaningful upgrades including a sunroof, LED lighting, and a digital instrument cluster that elevate its appeal beyond purely budget-minded buyers. However, the naturally aspirated engine and modest 113 hp output mean performance is more suited to urban commuting than motorway stints.
Who it's for — Urban families and first-time SUV buyers looking for a practical, fuel-efficient, well-specced small SUV with strong brand warranty and dealer support at under AED 85,000.
PROS
- +Strong value with a well-equipped Type 14 featuring sunroof, wireless charging, and 10.25-inch screens at AED 82,000
- +5-year / 150,000 km warranty through Al Majid Motors with 3 years free servicing
- +Fuel efficient 1.5L CVT delivering approximately 6.5 L/100km in combined driving
- +Practical 392-litre boot and 205 mm ground clearance for UAE road conditions
- +Al Majid Motors' 8-showroom, 9-service-centre UAE-wide network for reliable aftersales support
CONS
- –113 hp naturally aspirated engine feels underpowered on high-speed UAE highways
- –Only FWD available — no AWD option for desert excursions
- –Cabin can feel cramped for taller occupants on longer journeys
- –Towing not rated, limiting versatility for leisure or light-duty hauling
Specifications
POWERTRAIN & PERFORMANCE
DIMENSIONS & CAPACITY
Features
SAFETY & ADAS
2 airbags (driver and front passenger) on Type 12; 4 airbags including side airbags on Type 14
Anti-lock braking system with electronic brake-force distribution, standard on all trims
ESC and traction control standard across all trims
Ultrasonic rear parking sensors standard on all trims
Reversing camera with guidelines standard on all trims
TPMS standard across all trims
Forward collision-avoidance assist with pedestrian detection available on Type 14
Lane keeping assist and lane following assist standard on Type 14
COMFORT
Dual-zone automatic climate control standard on all trims
Manual height adjustment for driver's seat on all trims
Manual tilt steering wheel adjustment standard on all trims
Auto cruise control standard on all trims
Remote keyless entry with central locking standard on all trims
Electrically operated tilt-and-slide sunroof exclusive to Type 14
Proximity smart key with engine push-button start on Type 14
Sport, Eco, and Normal driving modes on Type 14
Leather-wrapped steering wheel with alloy pedals on Type 14
Leatherette upholstery with ventilated front seats on Type 14
Qi wireless charging pad for smartphones on Type 14
Full LED headlamps and rear combination lamps exclusive to Type 14; Type 12 uses halogen
16-inch alloy wheels (215/60R16) standard across all trims
INFOTAINMENT
10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay standard on all trims
Bluetooth hands-free calling with voice recognition standard on all trims
6-speaker audio system across all trims
Super Vision Cluster with 10.25-inch TFT-LCD digital display on Type 14
Trim ladder
| PRICE | AED 72,345 | AED 82,000 |
| POWER | 113 hp | 113 hp |
| 0–100 KM/H | 12 s | 12 s |
| FUEL | Petrol | Petrol |
| ECONOMY | 6.5 L/100km | 6.5 L/100km |
| DRIVE | FWD | FWD |
Kia
Long warranty coverage and improving build quality; resale trails the Japanese but is rising.
Hyundai's design-forward sibling — sharp looks and big equipment lists at mainstream money.
In the UAE — Among the longest warranties in the market for peace of mind.
Where to get it
Official listings are GCC spec. Grey-market imports may be other specs (US, Chinese, Japan) — always confirm the spec, as it affects warranty, A/C cooling and resale.
BUY FROM
Kia sole distributor in UAE since 1988. Toll-free: 800 542823
https://www.kia-uae.com/showroom/sonet/ ↗RENT FROM
Rental partners coming soon
Warranty — 5 years / 150,000 km · Al Majid Motors GCC warranty. Also includes 1 year free roadside assistance. Battery warranty: 12 months from purchase date.
Frequently asked
How much does the 2025 Kia Sonet cost in the UAE?+
The Kia Sonet ranges from AED 72,345 (1.5L Type 12) to AED 82,000 for the top trim in the UAE, GCC spec.
Is the Kia Sonet worth buying?+
Caralog rates the Kia Sonet 7/10. The Kia Sonet is a strong value proposition in the UAE's subcompact SUV segment, offering a well-equipped cabin, reliable 1.5L petrol powertrain, and the backing of Al Majid Motors' extensive service network at a competitive price point. The Type 14 trim adds meaningful upgrades including a sunroof, LED lighting, and a digital instrument cluster that elevate its appeal beyond purely budget-minded buyers. However, the naturally aspirated engine and modest 113 hp output mean performance is more suited to urban commuting than motorway stints.
Who should buy the Kia Sonet?+
Urban families and first-time SUV buyers looking for a practical, fuel-efficient, well-specced small SUV with strong brand warranty and dealer support at under AED 85,000.
What are the pros and cons of the Kia Sonet?+
Pros: Strong value with a well-equipped Type 14 featuring sunroof, wireless charging, and 10.25-inch screens at AED 82,000; 5-year / 150,000 km warranty through Al Majid Motors with 3 years free servicing; Fuel efficient 1.5L CVT delivering approximately 6.5 L/100km in combined driving; Practical 392-litre boot and 205 mm ground clearance for UAE road conditions; Al Majid Motors' 8-showroom, 9-service-centre UAE-wide network for reliable aftersales support. Cons: 113 hp naturally aspirated engine feels underpowered on high-speed UAE highways; Only FWD available — no AWD option for desert excursions; Cabin can feel cramped for taller occupants on longer journeys; Towing not rated, limiting versatility for leisure or light-duty hauling.
Is the Kia Sonet reliable, and does it hold its value?+
Kia has strong reliability and average resale in the UAE. Long warranty coverage and improving build quality; resale trails the Japanese but is rising.
How fast is the Kia Sonet?+
The Kia Sonet makes 113 hp and does 0–100 km/h in 12s (top speed 170 km/h).
What is the fuel economy of the Kia Sonet?+
The Kia Sonet returns about 6.5 L/100km combined.
How many seats does the Kia Sonet have?+
The Kia Sonet seats 5, with 392 litres of boot space.
Where can I buy the Kia Sonet in the UAE?+
Available from Al Majid Motors. 5 years / 150,000 km warranty.
What are the alternatives to the Kia Sonet?+
Cross-shop the Toyota Raize, Hyundai Venue, Nissan Kicks, Changan CS35 Plus, Kia Seltos.