Kia Sonet vs Maruti Suzuki Fronx: Comparing Top-end Variants for Performance Enthusiasts
If the rev of a car’s engine gets your blood pumping, then brace yourself. Today, we are looking at the compact SUVs, Kia Sonet and Maruti Suzuki Fronx, and what makes them high-performance car models in India.
In this article, we will discuss
- What a performance enthusiast should look for in a car
- Kia Sonet vs Maruti Suzuki Fronx – an expert analysis of their performance, style and features
- How to pick the right car for you
The Kia Sonet is considered a smaller version of the Kia Seltos, and its powertrains have earned praise. Maruti Suzuki Fronx, on the other hand, comes packed with features, and of course, Maruti’s promise of good after-sales service.
What a Performance Enthusiast looks for in a car
Here’s what to look for in a car as a performance enthusiast:
- Acceleration and Speed – How quickly a car accelerates, what is its top speed
- Power – How it pulls weight, how is its high speed stability, does it feel strained while going up the hills, or with AC on
- Agility – How it behaves while turning at speeds
- Driving Experience/Handling – Is the gearbox smooth and responsive, how is its steering/braking performance
Performance enthusiasts primarily seek cars that offer a thrilling driving experience. When looking for the best performance cars, they appreciate vehicles with swift acceleration, powerful engines, braking performance, sharp handling, and advanced transmissions.
High-speed stability, quick engine responsiveness, and the method of power delivery are equally significant. Additionally, advanced features and gadgets that heighten the driving experience also hold value for these enthusiasts.
Also read: 10 DC Design cars & how they look in the REAL world: Maruti Swift to Mahindra XUV500
Why Kia Sonet and Maruti Suzuki Fronx are Popular
The Kia Sonet and Maruti Suzuki Fronx have become favorites among performance enthusiasts due to their balance of power, handling, and advanced features. Both models offer agile handling, quick engine responsiveness, and high-speed stability, which contribute to an exhilarating driving experience.
The turbo variants of both models pack an extra punch, providing more speed and thrill. They primarily offer FWD drive types, adding to their nimble nature and fuel efficiency. The Maruti Suzuki Fronx and Kia Sonet both have minimal body roll, enhancing the overall ride quality and performance.
Furthermore, the Kia Sonet stands out with its high-quality Bose audio system, offering an immersive experience for the driver.
Kia Sonet and Maruti Suzuki Fronx Variants Shortlist in Rs 12-14 Lakh Range
For Maruti Suzuki Fronx, we have:
| Variant | Price (INR) as on 25 July 2023 |
|---|---|
| Zeta Turbo AT | 1,205,000 |
| Alpha Turbo AT | 1,297,000 |
| Alpha Turbo DT AT | 1,313,000 |
For Kia Sonet, we have:
| Variant | Price (INR) as on 25 July 2023 |
|---|---|
| 1.5 HTX Plus Diesel | 1,355,000 |
| GTX Plus Turbo DCT | 1,369,000 |
| 1.5 GTX Plus Diesel | 1,389,000 |
Maruti Suzuki Fronx Zeta Turbo AT
The Maruti Suzuki Fronx Zeta Turbo AT offers a balance of power, agility, and value. With quick engine responsiveness and stable high-speed stability, it provides an engaging driving experience. We have also compared the Maruti Fronx with Brezza for performance enthusiasts.
Maruti Suzuki Fronx Alpha Turbo AT
The Maruti Suzuki Fronx Alpha Turbo AT boasts identical performance attributes as the Zeta Turbo AT but at a higher price, due to the upgraded Arkamys audio system.
Maruti Suzuki Fronx Alpha Turbo DT AT
The Maruti Suzuki Fronx Alpha Turbo DT AT provides similar performance to the other Turbo AT variants but carries a higher price tag, which might not be justified for performance enthusiasts focused solely on driving dynamics.
Kia Sonet 1.5 HTX Plus Diesel
The Kia Sonet 1.5 HTX Plus Diesel stands out with its diesel engine, providing quick engine responsiveness, agile handling, and linear power delivery. However, some enthusiasts might find the vibration and harshness level to be a bit high. You can also check out our comparison of the Kia Sonet with Hyundai Venue N Line for performance enthusiasts.
Kia Sonet GTX Plus Turbo DCT
The Kia Sonet GTX Plus Turbo DCT delivers an exhilarating performance with its peppy power delivery and advanced DCT transmission. It also features a premium Bose audio system for an immersive driving experience.
Kia Sonet 1.5 GTX Plus Diesel
The Kia Sonet 1.5 GTX Plus Diesel offers similar performance attributes as the 1.5 HTX Plus Diesel but at a higher price, thanks to the addition of wireless charging. If you’re a tech-savvy gadget lover, you can read our guide to the best Kia Sonet variants for you.
Our Pick for the Best variant among Kia Sonet and Maruti Suzuki Fronx for Performance Enthusiasts
The Kia Sonet GTX Plus Turbo DCT emerges as the top choice for performance enthusiasts. With its agile handling, quick engine responsiveness, and peppy power delivery, it ensures a thrilling drive. Its advanced DCT transmission and high-quality Bose audio system further enhance the driving experience.
The Top 3 choices
- Kia Sonet GTX Plus Turbo DCT
- Kia Sonet 1.5 HTX Plus Diesel
- Maruti Suzuki Fronx Zeta Turbo AT
Attributes Comparison for Top 3 Choices:
| Attribute | Kia Sonet GTX Plus Turbo DCT | Kia Sonet 1.5 HTX Plus Diesel | Maruti Suzuki Fronx Zeta Turbo AT |
|---|---|---|---|
| # of cylinders | 3 | 4 | 4 |
| Acceleration (0-60 km/h) | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Agility | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Body Roll | Minimal | Minimal | Minimal |
| Drive Type (AWD/RWD/FWD/4WD) | FWD | FWD | FWD |
| Engine – power (BHP) | 118.36 | 98.63 | 98.69 |
| Engine – Torque (Nm) | 172 | 240 | 147.6 |
| Ground clearance (mm) | 211 | 211 | 190 |
| High-Speed Stability | Stable | Stable | Stable |
| Power delivery | Peaky | Linear | Linear |
| Top Speed (km/h) | Yes | No | No |
| Transmission – # of gears | 7 | 6 | 5 |
How to Pick the Right Car for You?
- If you want the superior power and advanced features, you can go for the Kia Sonet GTX Plus Turbo DCT.
- If you’d prefer a diesel engine, the Kia Sonet 1.5 HTX Plus Diesel will be right for you.
- If you want value for money in your performance car, you can choose the Maruti Suzuki Fronx Zeta Turbo AT.
The Kia Sonet GTX Plus Turbo DCT, the Kia Sonet 1.5 HTX Plus Diesel, and the Maruti Suzuki Fronx Zeta Turbo AT are all excellent choices for performance enthusiasts, and indeed fast cars.
Given the higher power and torque figures, the Kia Sonet GTX Plus Turbo DCT and the Kia Sonet 1.5 HTX Plus Diesel lead the pack as the first and second choices, respectively, for performance enthusiasts. The Maruti Suzuki Fronx Zeta Turbo AT still remains a competent contender, given its balanced performance, agility, and lower price.
If you’re interested in reading more such face-to-face comparisons of popular car variants, head over to our Buying Advice section.
Also read: Upcoming 2022 Maruti Suzuki Vitara Brezza rendered