Citroen Basalt You vs Kia Sonet HTE: Which Base Variant To Buy?
Citroen Basalt You vs Kia Sonet HTE: Which Base Variant To Buy?
The Citroen Basalt, Citroen’s first SUV-coupe in India, has attracted attention with its unique design and competitive pricing. This positions it as a potential competitor to subcompact SUVs like the Kia Sonet. In this comparison, we will examine the base variant of the Citroen Basalt, known as the "You" variant, against the base variant of the Kia Sonet HTE to see how they measure up.
The Citroen Basalt You is priced at Rs 7.99 lakh, while the Kia Sonet HTE comes in at Rs 8 lakh (both prices are ex-showroom, pan-India). The pricing of these base variants is almost identical, with a marginal difference of just Rs 1,000. Both models offer a single engine and transmission option.
In terms of dimensions, the Citroen Basalt is notably larger than the Kia Sonet. The Basalt is longer by 357 mm and has a wheelbase that is 151 mm longer than the Sonet’s. This usually translates to more interior space. However, the Sonet is slightly wider and taller, which could offer better headroom and more comfortable seating for three passengers in the back. Additionally, the Basalt provides a more spacious boot, offering 470 liters compared to the Sonet's 385 liters.
Under the hood, both the Citroen Basalt You and the Kia Sonet HTE are equipped with a 1.2-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine, delivering almost identical power outputs. The Basalt produces 82 PS, while the Sonet offers 83 PS. Both engines generate 115 Nm of torque and are paired with a 5-speed manual transmission. Although these base variants offer similar performance, the higher trims of the Basalt include a 1.2-litre turbo-petrol engine, while the Sonet’s higher variants offer a 1-litre turbo-petrol engine and a 1.5-litre diesel engine.
When it comes to features, the Citroen Basalt You and the Kia Sonet HTE share some similarities but also have distinct differences. Externally, both cars come with halogen headlights and tail lights, but the Sonet includes 15-inch steel wheels with covers and body-coloured door handles and mirrors, while the Basalt has larger 16-inch steel wheels with blacked-out door handles and mirrors.
Inside, both vehicles sport an all-black interior, though the Sonet steps up with semi-leatherette seats, as opposed to the Basalt’s fabric seats. Both cars offer a semi-digital instrument cluster and manual air conditioning. The Sonet adds a few extras, like rear AC vents and Type-C USB chargers, which are not available in the Basalt’s base variant.
Neither the Citroen Basalt You nor the Kia Sonet HTE includes an infotainment system in their base variants, which might be a consideration if you’re looking for in-car entertainment.
On the safety front, both models are equipped with 6 airbags, electronic stability control, and rear parking sensors. The Sonet has an edge with additional safety features like a tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS), which is not available in the Basalt You.
The Citroen Basalt’s You variant is a standout choice for those who prioritize a fresh, eye-catching design and larger dimensions. It offers more space, particularly in the cabin and boot, which can enhance overall comfort. The Basalt also includes a robust set of safety features, making it a strong contender for anyone looking for a spacious and stylish car with modern safety features. The ride quality of the Basalt is notably plush and comfortable, even on rough roads, which adds to its appeal.
On the other hand, the Kia Sonet HTE brings more features to the table, including rear AC vents and a more refined interior with semi-leatherette seats. The Sonet’s engine is well-refined, and it provides a comfortable ride at low speeds. However, the ride quality may be less smooth on rough roads. Kia’s extensive service network is another advantage, offering more convenience for after-sales support, making the Sonet a practical choice for those seeking additional features and easier service access.
Both the Citroen Basalt You and Kia Sonet HTE have their unique strengths. The Basalt is ideal for those who need more space and appreciate a distinctive design, while the Sonet is better suited for those who prioritize extra features and a well-established service network. We recommend taking both SUVs for a test drive to determine which one best fits your needs. Based on this comparison, which SUV would you choose? Let us know in the comments below!
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