Does the Kia Sonet Interior Justify the Price Premium Over Chinese Rivals?

Saudi Arabia: The Korean brand Kia is always known for offering the segment's best and the industry's first features in every car. The Kia Sonet is not different, which is clear the moment you step inside this compact SUV and immediately notice Kia tried harder than budget brands. The cabin feels put together. The materials are not premium, but they do not feel cheap either.

Interior Highlights:

• 10.25-inch touchscreen and above or 8-inch 
• 10.25-inch digital cluster 
• Leatherette seats with ventilation 
• Automatic climate control 
• Wireless charging 
• 385L boot, expandable with split-folding seats
• Ambient lighting

Screen and Technology

The base LX trim gets an 8-inch touchscreen, while LX2 or higher gets 10.25 inches. That's the same size as SUVs costing SAR 40,000 more. The interface is clean, with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto working without hiccups, and navigation is built in if you want it.

The 10.25-inch digital cluster behind the steering wheel on higher trims looks modern. It displays speed, fuel, and trip info clearly. Better than analogue gauges in cheaper competitors, wireless charging pads exist on EX trims. It actually works, unlike some Chinese brands where it's just for show, and your phone charges at a decent speed. USB-C charging ports throughout are a good convenience, and USB-C is the standard now.

Seating Comfort

The front seats are wrapped in leatherette, which is actually not real leather, but it's quality fake leather. Wipes clean easily, which is important for families with kids.

The ventilated front seats on the EX2 and EX trims are something most Saudi buyers love. As your back does not stick to the seat during Jeddah summers. Heated seats are included as well, though rarely used in Saudi conditions.

The driver's seat has power adjustment on higher trims, which makes finding your position easier. The passenger seat stays manual except on the EX. Rear seats fit two adults comfortably. Three is possible but tight; the legroom is good for a compact SUV. Taller passengers won't complain too much.

The 60/40 split folding rear seats add practicality. Two-step reclining lets passengers lean back, and the 385-liter boot expands significantly when seats fold.

Climate Control

Automatic climate control is standard across all trims. Rare in this price range, and the system works well, keeping the cabin cool even in extreme heat. The rear AC vents push air to backseat passengers. It makes a difference when temperatures hit 45°C outside.

Build Quality Concerns

Plastics are hard in lower areas; tap the dashboard and door panels, and you hear hollow sounds. This is normal for the price point, but it's noticeable. The panel gaps are tighter than Chinese competitors. Things line up properly, and honestly nothing rattles in a new car. But what about after three Saudi summers? Will the leatherette crack? Will plastics start creaking? Kia products generally hold up better than budget brands, but they're not Toyota-level durable.

Storage and Practicality

Cup holders, bottle holders, and door pockets all exist. The central console has decent space. The glove box fits the manual and registration with room left. Ambient lighting on higher trims adds a modern touch without feeling gimmicky. Multiple color options let you customize the feel. The sunroof on EX trims opens up the cabin; it is not panoramic, but it is big enough to make a difference.

What's Missing

What the Sonet does come with is a 360-degree camera, even on the top EX trim. You get a rear camera and sensors, but no full surround view; most buyers may find this a little disappointing at SAR 92,940. Similarly, there is no powered tailgate, and you lift it manually. Also, there are no memory seats. Set your position each time.

Overall a decent package as far as the interior of the Sonet is concerned; given the price, Kia has equipped this compact SUV rather well. Looking at the competition, it is fair to say it sits rather well in the segment, which is a good thing. 

Also Read: Yaris 2026 Full Trim Line-up and KSA Pricing Guide