Toyota Taisor vs Kia Sonet 2024 Performance Showdown: Best Top-end Petrol Variant
Not only is a car’s performance a necessity, but it also offers a thrill that petrolheads crave. So, what are some of the best performance cars, or top sports cars in India? What goes into making a high-performance car model? We compare the Toyota Urban Cruiser Taisor and Kia Sonet 2024, and see how their top-end petrol variants fare in terms of their performance.
In this article, we will share
- What a performance enthusiast should look for in a car
- Toyota Taisor vs Kia Sonet 2024 – a comprehensive analysis of their top-end petrol variants, performance and features
- How to pick the right car for you
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 prioritize driving dynamics, power, and agility when selecting a car. They seek vehicles that offer responsive engines, quick acceleration, and high top speeds. Sporty handling, precise steering, and well-tuned suspensions are essential for an engaging driving experience. Performance enthusiasts also appreciate features like sport mode, paddle shifters, and advanced traction control systems.
They value cars that provide a visceral connection between the driver and the machine, delivering an adrenaline-pumping experience. Aesthetically, performance enthusiasts are drawn to aggressive styling, aerodynamic enhancements, and sporty design elements that reflect the car’s high-performance capabilities.
Why Toyota Taisor and Kia Sonet 2024 are Popular
The Toyota Taisor and Kia Sonet 2024 have gained significant popularity among performance enthusiasts in the compact SUV segment. Both vehicles offer a compelling combination of powerful engines, sporty handling, and advanced features that cater to the desires of driving enthusiasts.
The Toyota Taisor is equipped with a 1.0L K-Series Turbo engine that delivers an impressive 98.69bhp@5500rpm and 147.6Nm@2000-4500rpm of torque. This turbocharged powerplant provides quick acceleration and responsive performance, allowing the Taisor to sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in just 10.8 seconds. The engine’s power delivery is linear and smooth, making it a joy to drive in both city and highway conditions.
Toyota has also focused on enhancing the Taisor’s handling characteristics. The compact SUV features a well-tuned MacPherson Strut front suspension and a Torsion Beam rear suspension, which provide excellent stability and cornering abilities. The electric power steering offers precise control and good feedback, allowing drivers to feel connected to the road. The Taisor’s lightweight chassis and compact dimensions contribute to its agility and nimble handling.
On the other hand, the Kia Sonet 2024 has a Smartstream G1.0 TGDi engine that churns out an impressive 118bhp@6000rpm and 172Nm@1500-4000rpm of torque. This turbocharged gasoline direct injection (GDi) engine offers quick throttle response and strong mid-range punch, making overtaking maneuvers effortless. The Sonet’s 7-speed DCT (Dual-Clutch Transmission) in the GTX Plus and X-line variants provides lightning-fast gear shifts, enhancing the driving experience.
Kia has equipped the Sonet with a sporty suspension setup, featuring McPherson Strut with Coil Spring at the front and Coupled Torsion Beam Axle (CTBA) with Coil Spring at the rear. This combination strikes a perfect balance between ride comfort and handling precision. The Sonet’s steering is well-weighted and communicative, providing excellent control and confidence while cornering.
Both the Toyota Taisor and Kia Sonet 2024 offer drive modes that allow performance enthusiasts to tailor the vehicle’s characteristics to their preferences. The Kia Sonet GTX Plus and X-line variants come with drive modes like Normal, Eco, and Sports, which adjust the throttle response, steering weight, and transmission shift points accordingly. These modes enable drivers to optimize the car’s performance based on their driving style and road conditions.
In terms of aesthetics, both the Taisor and Sonet have sporty and aggressive design elements that appeal to performance enthusiasts. The Taisor’s bold front grille, sharp lines, and dual-tone color options give it a dynamic and youthful appearance. The Sonet’s muscular stance, sleek LED headlights, and sporty alloy wheels contribute to its athletic look.
Both compact SUVs offer advanced features that enhance the driving experience. The Kia Sonet GTX Plus and X-line variants come with a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, wireless charging, ventilated seats, and a premium sound system, providing a tech-savvy and comfortable cabin environment. The Toyota Taisor also offers a 9-inch touchscreen, wireless charging, and a host of connectivity options.
The Toyota Taisor and Kia Sonet 2024 have successfully captured the attention of performance enthusiasts by offering powerful engines, sporty handling, and a range of features that cater to their driving preferences. These compact SUVs provide an exhilarating driving experience, making them popular choices for those who prioritize performance and driving excitement.
Toyota Taisor and Kia Sonet 2024 Top-end Petrol Variants
For Kia Sonet 2024, we have:
| Variant | Price as on 17 May 2024 |
|---|---|
| HTX Plus Turbo iMT | ₹13,49,900 |
| GTX Plus Turbo DCT | ₹14,54,900 |
| X-line Turbo DCT | ₹14,74,900 |
For Toyota Taisor, we have:
| Variant | Price as on 17 May 2024 |
|---|---|
| V Turbo AT | ₹12,87,500 |
| V Turbo AT Dual Tone | ₹13,03,500 |
Kia Sonet GTX Plus Turbo DCT
This variant is an excellent choice for performance enthusiasts, offering a powerful 1.0-liter turbocharged engine that delivers 118bhp@6000rpm and 172Nm@1500-4000rpm. The 7-speed DCT transmission provides quick and seamless gear shifts, enhancing the driving experience. The GTX Plus variant also comes with drive modes (Normal, Eco, Sports) that allow drivers to customize the car’s performance based on their preferences.
Kia Sonet X-line Turbo DCT
The X-line Turbo DCT variant shares the same performance credentials as the GTX Plus, with the added benefit of exclusive styling elements. It features a sporty dual-tone exterior, giving it a distinctive and aggressive look. The X-line variant also comes equipped with advanced features like ADAS Level-1 with 10 autonomous features, enhancing safety and convenience.
Toyota Taisor V Turbo AT
This variant is powered by a 1.0L K-Series Turbo engine that generates 98.69bhp@5500rpm and 147.6Nm@2000-4500rpm. While not as powerful as the Sonet’s engine, the Taisor’s turbocharged unit still offers peppy performance and responsive acceleration. The 6-speed automatic transmission provides smooth and efficient gear changes. The Taisor V Turbo AT also benefits from a mild-hybrid system that enhances fuel efficiency without compromising on performance.
Toyota Taisor V Turbo AT Dual Tone
The Dual Tone variant of the Taisor V Turbo AT offers the same performance attributes as the regular V Turbo AT but adds a touch of style with its dual-tone color scheme. This variant appeals to performance enthusiasts who also prioritize a visually striking appearance.
Our Pick for the Best Variant among Toyota Taisor and Kia Sonet 2024 for Performance Enthusiasts
After carefully evaluating the top-end petrol variants of the Toyota Taisor and Kia Sonet 2024, we have identified the Kia Sonet GTX Plus Turbo DCT as the best option for performance enthusiasts. This variant stands out due to its powerful engine, sporty handling, and advanced features that cater to the needs and desires of driving enthusiasts.
The Kia Sonet GTX Plus Turbo DCT is powered by a 1.0-liter Smartstream G1.0 TGDi engine that delivers an impressive 118bhp@6000rpm and 172Nm@1500-4000rpm of torque. This turbocharged gasoline direct injection (GDi) engine offers quick throttle response and strong mid-range punch, making it a delight to drive. The engine’s power delivery is linear and smooth, providing excellent acceleration and overtaking capabilities.
One of the standout features of the GTX Plus variant is its 7-speed DCT (Dual-Clutch Transmission). This advanced transmission offers lightning-fast gear shifts, ensuring seamless and precise power delivery. The DCT enhances the driving experience by providing smooth and responsive gear changes, allowing the engine to remain in its optimal powerband. Performance enthusiasts will appreciate the quick and engaging shifts that the DCT offers, making the driving experience more enjoyable and exciting.
The Kia Sonet GTX Plus Turbo DCT also comes equipped with drive modes, including Normal, Eco, and Sports. These modes allow drivers to customize the car’s performance characteristics based on their preferences and driving conditions. The Sports mode sharpens the throttle response, firms up the steering, and holds gears longer, providing a more dynamic and engaging driving experience. Performance enthusiasts will appreciate the ability to tailor the car’s behavior to their liking, whether they’re cruising on the highway or tackling twisty roads.
In terms of handling, the Sonet GTX Plus Turbo DCT excels with its well-tuned suspension setup. The McPherson Strut with Coil Spring at the front and Coupled Torsion Beam Axle (CTBA) with Coil Spring at the rear provide a perfect balance between ride comfort and handling precision. The suspension absorbs bumps and undulations effectively, maintaining composure and stability even during spirited driving. The car’s steering is well-weighted and communicative, offering excellent feedback and control.
The Sonet GTX Plus Turbo DCT also boasts advanced features that enhance safety and convenience. It comes with ADAS Level-1 with 10 autonomous features, including Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Lane Following Assist, and Leading Vehicle Departure Alert. These features provide an added layer of safety and peace of mind, allowing performance enthusiasts to focus on the driving experience.
The GTX Plus variant offers a range of comfort and convenience features that elevate the overall driving experience. The 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, wireless charging, ventilated seats, and a premium sound system create a tech-savvy and comfortable cabin environment.
The Kia Sonet GTX Plus Turbo DCT emerges as the best variant for performance enthusiasts, offering a powerful engine, sporty handling, advanced features, and a engaging driving experience. Its combination of performance, technology, and comfort makes it an attractive choice for those who prioritize driving excitement and dynamic capabilities in a compact SUV package.
The Top 3 Choices
- Kia Sonet GTX Plus Turbo DCT
- Kia Sonet X-line Turbo DCT
- Toyota Taisor V Turbo AT
| Attribute | Sonet GTX Plus Turbo DCT | Sonet X-line Turbo DCT | Taisor V Turbo AT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Traction Control | Yes | Yes | No |
| 360 View Camera | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| ABS | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Mild Hybrid | No | No | Yes |
| Drive Mode Types | NORMAL|ECO|SPORTS | NORMAL|ECO|SPORTS | No |
| Max Torque | 172Nm@1500-4000rpm | 172Nm@1500-4000rpm | 147.6Nm@2000-4500rpm |
| Engine Type | Smartstream G1.0 TGDi | Smartstream G1.0 TGDi | 1.0L K-Series Turbo |
| Displacement | 998 cc | 998 cc | 998 cc |
| Max Power | 118bhp@6000rpm | 118bhp@6000rpm | 98.69bhp@5500rpm |
| Hill Assist | Yes | Yes | Yes |
How to Pick the Right Car for You
- The Kia Sonet GTX Plus Turbo DCT and X-line Turbo DCT are powered by the potent 1.0-liter Smartstream G1.0 TGDi engine, which delivers an impressive 118bhp@6000rpm and 172Nm@1500-4000rpm of torque. The 7-speed DCT transmission in these variants offers quick and seamless gear shifts, enhancing the driving experience.
- The Sonet GTX Plus and X-line variants also come equipped with advanced features like traction control, a 360-view camera, and drive modes (Normal, Eco, Sports). The sporty suspension setup and precise steering in these variants provide excellent handling and control.
- The Toyota Taisor V Turbo AT is a capable performer in its own right. While it may not match the outright power and torque figures of the Sonet variants, the Taisor’s 1.0L K-Series Turbo engine still delivers a respectable 98.69bhp@5500rpm and 147.6Nm@2000-4500rpm. The Taisor V Turbo AT also benefits from a mild-hybrid system, which enhances fuel efficiency without compromising on performance.
- All three variants offer essential safety features like ABS and hill assist, providing peace of mind to performance enthusiasts. The Taisor V Turbo AT also comes with a 360-view camera, which aids in parking and maneuvering in tight spaces.
The Kia Sonet GTX Plus Turbo DCT and X-line Turbo DCT variants offer powerful engines, sporty handling, and advanced features. The Toyota Taisor V Turbo AT, while not as powerful, still delivers a capable and efficient performance with its mild-hybrid system. All three variants provide an engaging and exciting driving experience, catering to the needs and preferences of performance enthusiasts in the compact SUV segment.
If you’re interested in reading more such face-to-face comparisons of popular car variants, head over to our Buying Advice section.