[avira_tk]

Originally Posted by robincsamuel

In this case, @avira_tk is able to remote start but just couldn't change/turn on the climate control setting. Also, from the screenshots shared, it looks like the OP is referring to the status screen and that's read-only. And, the home screen only has the option to start the engine and lock/unlock the doors. Advanced settings like climate control, defogger, etc are on the "Remote" screen, which can be accessed from the footer navigation bar.

I tried it again now, the remote start works along with rear window defrosting. AC cannot be operated by phone, just tried it and it shows as off and disabled.

Older phones are listed on the compatibility list.

[robincsamuel]

Originally Posted by avira_tk

I tried it again now, the remote start works along with rear window defrosting. AC cannot be operated by phone, just tried it and it shows as off and disabled.

I think I've almost started spamming this thread, but one last try. Can you please share the screenshot having that disabled AC control? And, were you able to see the gif file I shared? The recorded screen shows moving to the "Remote" section and changing the temperature.

PS: Please feel free to DM if you'd like to check this over there. I'm 100% confident that it's not a device-specific issue; could be a bug though.

[ss11011988]

Dear all,

I'm a prospective customer out looking to buy his first vehicle, preferably a C-SUV. Kia Sonet was a surprise entry to my list with the competitors being XUV300 D MT and Fronx 1.0L MT(though I know it's a raised Baleno). I took a test drive of the Sonet 1.5 D AT GTX variant today and while I liked the overall package, it also raised some queries which I'm posting here, appreciate it if the owners can clarify that :

1. How's the build quality of the car faring with passage of time?
2. The engine noise was very pronounced inside and prominent through out the test drive which surprised me considering it's a Hyundai unit. I believe a BHPian has reported the same as well. Upon enquiring the same with the SA, he told me that it has to do with the test drive vehicle. Any thoughts on this?
3. ASS experience, in Bangalore particularly.
4. Service costs and other expenses, if any.
5. I have read about the average ride dynamics of the car at speeds northwards of 100 kmph. Does changing the tires do any difference to the high speed handling behavior?
6. Has anyone retrofitted rear wiper for the HTX variant? Upon enquiring, they straight cut denied that it can be done internally, but could be done from outside.

Regards,
SS

[avira_tk]

Originally Posted by ss11011988

Dear all,

I'm a prospective customer out looking to buy his first vehicle, preferably a C-SUV. Kia Sonet was a surprise entry to my list with the competitors being XUV300 D MT and Fronx 1.0L MT(though I know it's a raised Baleno). I took a test drive of the Sonet 1.5 D AT GTX variant today and while I liked the overall package, it also raised some queries which I'm posting here, appreciate it if the owners can clarify that :

1
..
6.

Regards,
SS

I have one and it's been 2 years and 29k kms with a GTX DAT, let me give my inputs as a former punto owner.

1. Build Quality : This should be the last reason to buy one, it's not a noticeable quality.
2. Engine refinement : It's refined for a diesel, only before a service is due, do you find the noise intrusive.
3. Service : I use JSP Kia on Hosur Road, it's quite good.
4. Service costs: I'm not aware of this as I have a prepaid package, 18k for 30k kms, similar plans be plans may be still available.
5. Dynamics : Cruising at around 105kmph is the sweet spot for me, I doubt tyres will do much, the gearing ensures that rpm stays below 2k, so very relaxed cruising.
6. Rear wash wipe retrofit : The retrofit is complicated in any vehicle, go for the gtx, it's worth the stretch.

Good luck with your next buy.

[Timeline 1967]

I am in a dilemma in choosing between HTX IMT DSL 1.5 & GTX PLUS IMT DSL 1.5 ,mainly due to the 2 lakh inr difference vis-a-vis the features offered. The only feature I am interested is the ventilated seats.
Inputs please.

[_chikku]

Originally Posted by Timeline 1967

I am in a dilemma in choosing between HTX IMT DSL 1.5 & GTX PLUS IMT DSL 1.5 ,mainly due to the 2 lakh inr difference vis-a-vis the features offered. The only feature I am interested is the ventilated seats.
Inputs please.

HTX + also has ventilated seats.

Remember, till the updates arrive on touchscreen info system wireless navigation won't work in GTX models - if that's a deal breaker

[harry10]

Originally Posted by ss11011988

Dear all,

1. How's the build quality of the car faring with passage of time?
2. The engine noise was very pronounced inside and prominent through out the test drive which surprised me considering it's a Hyundai unit. I believe a BHPian has reported the same as well. Upon enquiring the same with the SA, he told me that it has to do with the test drive vehicle. Any thoughts on this?
3. ASS experience, in Bangalore particularly.
4. Service costs and other expenses, if any.
5. I have read about the average ride dynamics of the car at speeds northwards of 100 kmph. Does changing the tires do any difference to the high speed handling behavior?
6. Has anyone retrofitted rear wiper for the HTX variant? Upon enquiring, they straight cut denied that it can be done internally, but could be done from outside.

Regards,
SS

Let me try to give my perspective. I have HTX D-AT.

1.- Build quality is decent. Fit and finish is good. Safety Rating isn't out but if they do don't expect more than 3 stars for this as with Seltos. No noticeable creaks and sounds from interiors even after doing 33k km.

2.- Must be TD car. Unless you drive in Sports mode in a spirited way or get the car above 2500RPM which happens rarely engine noise isn't intrusive.

3.- Not from Bangalore but my experience with Kia Service has been excellent so far.

4.- Service cost will range from 6k-9k. Depending upon what all you opt for. If you go by just the manual it shouldn't exceed 7k. I paid 8k for 30000 km service and this included Wheel balancing and Alignment.

5.- I don't go above 100-110 even on empty expressway but i have taken it to 150 just to check and it was stable enough.

6.- Service center doesn't do it. From outside warranty issue can come so I didn't pursue it further.

It's an excellent car except for it's stiff suspension. Potholes and speed breakers have to be dealt with gently. That's my only gripe with Sonet.

[jasjotbains]

Originally Posted by ss11011988

Dear all,

I'm a prospective customer out looking to buy his first vehicle, preferably a C-SUV.

Hello

1. 25k kms and 1.5 years down, and the build quality is still similar to day 1.
2. The engine noise is slightly pronounced due to lack of an under bonnet cladding. However below 2000 rpm the engine and turbo give out a melodious growl. No complaints but individual tastes may vary. However I've never really been bothered due to the pretty decent sound system being always on
3. ASS experience has been great even in tier 3 cities and is confidence inspiring.
4. First paid service at 20k kms cost me roughly 6500. Cabin filter, air filter etc all were changed. No wheel balancing or alignment done. Cheaper to get it done from outside. Also, getting my windshield replaced today for 7400, so not a very costly proposition.
5. Sonet is stable even at 120kmph, above which the security beeps starts irritating you. Getting better quality tires may be helpful though just for peace of mind. The Appolo tires seem to do a decent job though
6. Goo with the GTX+ avoid tampering with functional equipment for the fear of voiding warranty.

[ss11011988]

Thank you avira_tk, harry10 and jasjotbains for your sincere inputs, appreciate it. I might have to do another detailed test drive to gauge the engine noise better as that was the the only thing nagging me on an otherwise well rounded car(safety woes in the back end). I availed the test drive from JSP Autocore, Hosur Road. I will test drive a different car and see how it fares before taking the decision. HTX D AT seems to be good value for money when compared to the likes of XUV300 except for the safety proposition. The SA informed me that the current wait period is 2 months but he can move me up in the list in case of a cancellation, though that seems to be optimistic considering the high demand for their cars. Any insights on this that could be of use to me, gents? Thanks again!

Regards,
SS

[Himalayan_Ice]

So after waiting for the Jimny launch for five months and a subsequent ridiculous pricing led cancellation later, we were left looking for a replacement car for my wife's WagonR AT.

Stretching till 20L was doable as long as the car justified its pricing to a large degree. In the consideration set was the Creta and Seltos even though they were a lot bigger than what we wanted. Turns out that both of the cars had discontinued the DCT versions because of the BS6 norms.

While at the Kia Showroom, I saw a matte grey Sonet and REALLY liked its looks and size. Then figured that it had a DCT (I was really vary of the CVT boxes after the WagonR nonsense).

Took it for a test drive, and really liked the performance (for the price point) and the feature rich offering.

So went home and did a comparison with the Jimny for features that mattered to us, and listed out the ones where there were differences.



We live in Gurgaon. The car is going to live 90% of its life in the city. Another 5-8% is going to be on the highway, getting to the mountains. And maybe 2-5% is going to be in the rough. Creature comforts matter, especially if you plan to use the car for anything more than an hour at a stretch. With the Jimny, I'd not only be spending more on the sticker price, I'd also spend on new tires and kitting up the interiors with utilitarian comforts and that'd push the final price to an insufferable point.

Post this discussion it was a no-brainer, and we booked the Sonet.

Later figuring that the matte paint finish would be a pain to maintain, we picked up the black because it was ready for instant delivery (we'd waited too long by now).

Shopped around for loan rates and insurance quotes. Worked them in, and got the delivery on 22nd June.



Initial impressions:

• I finally understand why I see so many KIAs. SO.MANY.FEATURES.
• The remote start is a god-send. I start the car before changing into outside clothes, and it is cool by the time I am ready to drive off.
• The music system is really nice. I play a lot of electro & rock, and it does justice to both genres.
• I'm used to more low end torque, so the car does give a small car vibe. Till the turbo kicks in. Then it's fun. Unless you keep it in sports mode, where it's all GO.
• Ventilated seats. An absolutely amazing feature ALL cars in India should have.
• AC. It's insanely good. I am an AC freak, and even I've had to increase the temperature by a few notches in the evenings / rainy days. My brother's Jeep Compass S(O) feels like a slob in comparison.
• No request sensor on the passenger side. Why?
• The steering feels light. I'm used to more weight and feedback. Not very confidence inspiring.
• Front parking sensors. Yes. Absolutely yes.
• Auto IRVM. Such a feel good factor. Works really well.
• Very good quality of plastics
• I stopped the car on a steep-ish rutted incline and it picked up from a dead stop in standard drive mode minus any fuss. Full marks there.
• I'm 5'7" and have found the arm rest useful if I rest my hand on the gear lever. Was expecting it to be useless, but it isn't. Could be better. But not entirely a waste.
• Anyone who lives in the NCR knows the importance of an air-purifier. I am floored that it is available in cars of this segment now.
• Brakes are really bitey. Takes a bit of getting used to.
• No backlit door controls. They could have removed the jazzy LED show in the doors (which looks really cheap) and made the controls backlit.
• LED headlamps are very good. The foglamps should have been white / LED too.
• KIA needs to make sure that the stuff from their accessory list is available in the showrooms. A lot of usable items are on back-order / not available.
• Why so much chrome? Just. Why?
• Wireless car-play is a surprising omission. You've nearly everything. Why skimp on this?

To be honest, I am so impressed that I will be looking at the Seltos as the upgrade for my Brezza, in the next year. Unless the Creta comes looking like the Tucson, the five door Thar comes feature loaded or someone else comes with an AWD AT in the price range, KIA will have our hard earned money. Yet again

[riteshritesh]

Originally Posted by Himalayan_Ice

While at the Kia Showroom, I saw a matte grey Sonet and REALLY liked its looks and size. Then figured that it had a DCT (I was really vary of the CVT boxes after the WagonR nonsense)

Just 1 question, why the preference for DCT when most are avoiding it. CVT on WagonR fiasco? I don't think Wagon R had CVT, it must be AMT.

Anyways, I have now pre-booked the Seltos ( IVT HTK) Facelift along with the Honda Elevate. Whatever gets allocated first will be the winner. And this is after canceling the Hyryder and GV Strong Hybrids.

P.S. Congratulations on the Sonet.

[Himalayan_Ice]

Originally Posted by riteshritesh

Just 1 question, why the preference for DCT when most are avoiding it. CVT on WagonR fiasco? I don't think Wagon R had CVT, it must be AMT.

Anyways, I have now pre-booked the Seltos ( IVT HTK) Facelift along with the Honda Elevate. Whatever gets allocated first will be the winner. And this is after canceling the Hyryder and GV Strong Hybrids.

P.S. Congratulations on the Sonet.

Thank you!

You're right. The WagonR has an AMT. It was woeful on mall exits even. Nothing and then wheelspin.

I wanted a DCT because I like to push it a bit when in the mountains, and in my head the AMT & CVT boxes are siblings with the "push it and wait for things to happen" nature. I could be very wrong and might have missed out on a good car because of this mental tilt towards a DCT.

The replacement for the WagonR (the Sonet) be our primary car for longer hauls because I want to take it easy on the manual Brezza (which is now nearly seven) till I sell the latter and get a Verna-esq engine or an AWD, next year. So performance was important to a certain degree.

[epiccross]

Originally Posted by ss11011988

1. How's the build quality of the car faring with passage of time?

Was on a (similar) boat as you, and this was something that made me hold back. But once I TD'd the car, I knew this was it! But I just had an accident at relatively slower speeds with a fully loaded bus that didn't slow down enough (going at 20-30 or even higher), and while the car took a good beating on the side, I barely felt anything in the cabin except the "bang" noise. I don't know if that reassures you somehow, but at least to me it was reassuring.

2. The engine noise was very pronounced inside and prominent through out the test drive which surprised me considering it's a Hyundai unit. I believe a BHPian has reported the same as well. Upon enquiring the same with the SA, he told me that it has to do with the test drive vehicle. Any thoughts on this?

Insulation in Sonet is inferior to that in Creta/Seltos - and there's no hood dampner either. So whatever noise the engine makes, you will hear most of it. But the good bit is that it's one of the most refined diesel engines you can buy right now in even a couple of segments above. I don't find it intrusive at all, unless you're driving at very high RPMs. Even then with music etc. it's barely noticeable.

3. ASS experience, in Bangalore particularly.

Not sure about Bangalore, but I'm satisfied with the service so far in Kerala and Mangalore. Very supportive, only delay with some part delivery post my accident was a slight annoyance, but that's understandable and could be similar with any other brand.

5. I have read about the average ride dynamics of the car at speeds northwards of 100 kmph. Does changing the tires do any difference to the high speed handling behavior?

Took it above 100 a couple of times (although I really don't want to do this in ANY car) for the sake of testing, it's very stable around those speeds. I don't think you should take anything above 120, especially on Indian roads.

6. Has anyone retrofitted rear wiper for the HTX variant? Upon enquiring, they straight cut denied that it can be done internally, but could be done from outside.

This will be a pain, suggest you spend the differential and get GTX if that's a deal breaker. It bothered me with HTX, but I can live with it (so far). Especially with the good rear view camera as a backup available.

[Timeline 1967]

I had extensively test driven the Sonet, the diesel imt as well as the 1.2 petrol manual. Common factor is the steering feedback, light at slow speeds and heavy at high speeds.The suspension is on the stiffer side just like my Ford Fiesta ,which helps in the driving dynamic. The 1.2 manual is a lethargic engine, and the gears have to be worked in order to gain speed., this might be due the weight of the vehicle.

The 1.5 diesel imt combo in my opinion is best of both the world's. It's a boon to those having trouble with pressing the clutch paddle,and at the same time not letting the opportunity of giving away of the control of gear change to the vehicle itself.

In the changing scenario of forced fuel preferences, this may be the last diesel cars,which I don't want to
let loose of,before the inevitable. I have chosen the HTX IMT 1.5 diesel as my daily ride to and in addition to my Ford Fiesta, and I am happy that this one will be a value addition to my daily driving experience without putting too much financial burden.

[ss11011988]

Epiccross, thanks you for your detailed reply to my queries, the consistency in the members' experience with their cars speaks volumes on how well rounded this car is and the assurance it gives to me as a prospective customer. I took a detailed test drive of the Diesel IMT variant too, and that put my doubts about the engine noise to rest. It felt more refined than the diesel mill in the XUV300, and unlike the spikey nature of that motor, this one felt more refined and linear in power delivery. The cabin felt like a good place to be in thanks to the good fit and finish, and the features on offer. I am planning to go for the 1.5 D AT HTX variant as it seems to be good value for money. Yes, I will lose couple of features like ventilated seats, air purifier, auto IRVM, rear wiper, front parking sensors and such, but otherwise its pretty much up there. I have few noob queries in my mind with respect to the DPF, I would be grateful if you could answer the same for me :

1. My office is 12-13KM away from where I stay and the commute involves some traffic congested pockets. Would taking the car once / twice a week create DPF issues?
2. I'm planning to take the car out on long drives twice a week. Would that be enough to keep the DPF healthy?
3. My car might see periods of inactivity during weekdays. Would that create DPF issues?
4. How high were you able to negotiate when it came to insurance?