Skoda’s latest SUV, the Kylaq, is making waves in the Indian market with its premium interior and high-end features, all starting at an affordable Rs 7.89 lakh (ex-showroom). However, it faces tough competition from its rival, Kia Sonet, which comes with several high-tech features designed to elevate the overall experience of the SUV.
Here, we break down how the Sonet’s added features compare to the Kylaq to help you decide which one suits your needs better.
When it comes to safety features, the Kia Sonet takes a significant leap forward with its Level 1 ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance System), which includes forward collision avoidance assist, lane-keeping assist, and driver attention warning. These systems are designed to help drivers avoid accidents and stay focused on the road.
Unfortunately, the Skoda Kylaq does not offer any ADAS features, making the Sonet the clear winner in terms of active safety technology.
The Kia Sonet stands out with its 360-degree camera system, providing a full view of the surroundings. This is complemented by a blind spot view monitor that uses cameras on the ORVMs to give a clearer view of blind spots, especially when overtaking.
On the other hand, the Skoda Kylaq is equipped with a reverse parking camera, but it lacks a comprehensive 360 Surround View Camera While it is functional for basic parking maneuvers, the Sonet’s more advanced system offers greater convenience, especially in tight spots.
The Kia Sonet takes the lead with dual 10.25-inch displays, one for the infotainment system and the other for the digital driver’s display. In contrast, the Skoda Kylaq offers a 10-inch infotainment screen and an 8-inch digital driver display. While the Sonet’s infotainment screen is slightly larger, the Kylaq still offers excellent functionality. The Sonet’s more extensive digital driver display offers better readability, especially during long drives.
An additional advantage of the Kylaq’s infotainment system is its support for wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, unlike the Sonet, which requires a wired connection in most variants. However, Sonet’s smaller variants with an 8-inch screen do include wireless connectivity for both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.
The Kia Sonet comes equipped with a dedicated air purifier, complete with an Air Quality Index (AQI) display, allowing real-time monitoring of the cabin’s air quality. This advanced feature ensures better protection against viruses, bacteria, and pollutants.
While the Skoda Kylaq does offer an Air Care function integrated into the climate control system, it lacks the real-time AQI monitoring present in the Sonet. Though both vehicles aim to improve air quality, the Sonet’s air purifier offers a more comprehensive experience.
In addition to the standard rear parking sensors, the Kia Sonet is equipped with front parking sensors, which are ideal for parking in congested areas or navigating through busy traffic. The Skoda Kylaq, however, only features rear parking sensors that activate when the vehicle is shifted into reverse.
In terms of pricing, the Kia Sonet is available between Rs 7.99 lakh and Rs 15.76 lakh (ex-showroom), while the Skoda Kylaq starts at Rs 7.89 lakh (ex-showroom). Skoda will announce the full price range for the Kylaq on December 4, 2024, with deliveries expected to begin on January 27, 2025.
The Skoda Kylaq offers great value with its premium interior, starting price, and solid feature set. However, the Kia Sonet pulls ahead with several advanced features like a larger digital display, 360-degree camera, front parking sensors, and ADAS, making it the better choice for those who prioritize convenience and safety technology. Ultimately, your decision will depend on your specific needs, budget, and preference for high-tech features.