The war is on in the subcompact SUV segment in India, and for good reason – the new entrants are hungry and powerful to challenge the incumbents. Among those models, three can be named as offering the maximum level of premium facilities to this rapidly developing segment – Mahindra XUV300, Kia Sonet, and Renault Kiger. We check which of these sub-4-meter SUVs offers more in terms of the important parameters that make up the overall value.
Renault vs Kia
Regarding the aspect of dimensions, the XUV300 is the shortest model, and the Sonet is the longest of all three. Among the above four cars, the Sonet has the highest boot space, and the Kiger takes the second position, while the XUV300 stands in the third position. As for the exterior design, the concept was endowed with specific characteristics of the Renault car, with emphasis on the presence of tri-wing chrome decorations. There are a few changes, but the sporty-looking Sonet grabs attention with the tiger-crafted grille. The XUV300 stays true to Mahindra’s edgy and catchy design template.
Kiger facelift
Lacking the possibility of a face-lift any time soon, since it is the newcomer to this multiplicity of B and C SUVs. It is expected that Renault will initially aim at enhancing the utility features of its design before turning its attention to the aesthetics of the car. The Triber and Kwid are typical Renault models as the firm mostly relies on incremental improvements rather than radical changes.
Comparing Mthe ahindra Xuv300 3xo to the Kia Sonet and Renault Kiger specifications
There are no differences mechanically since all three come with 1.2-litre turbo-petrol engines to drive the front wheels, with manual and automatic gearbox options available as well. The Kiger and the XUV300 both have less power than the Sonet, where they produce 100PS and 110PS respectively, the most powerful being the Sonet at 120PS. The XUV300 possesses a better power-to-torque ratio and thus improves the performance in terms of driveability. While both the Scorpio and Nuvo lack a 1.5-litre diesel engine option, Mahindra offers it as an addition.
As for Fuel Efficiency, there is not much difference between the Kiger offering 18-20km/l mileage and the Sonet. The mileage of the XUV300 is slightly less at 16-18km/l due to more kerb weight as compared to the All New Swift. In general, the XUV300 presents more dynamic handling that will be admired by driving enthusiasts, while Sonet and Kiger are more comfortable to maneuver within heavily trafficked areas.
Mahindra XUV300 vs Kia Sonet vs Renault Kiger Price
The XUV300 is costlier than the Kiger by a significant margin, with the base variants starting at Rs. 7.96 lakhs and Rs. 5.84 lakhs, respectively. The Sonet is priced at Rs. 7.15 lakhs, which perfectly positions it between the two models. What may shift the value proposition in Kiger’s favour is its ability to offer a very high level of features for the price that it offers. The top-end trims, on the other hand, offer as much, if not more, than what is offered in the XUV300 or Sonet models.
The XUV300 offers an impressive array of safety features that, while not essential, make it one of the safest cars in its class: up to six airbags and driver aids are available if you’re willing to pay. The same can be said of the Sonet, segments-first side airbags offers ample protection to its occupants. However, some features are missing in the Kiger, which will leave the safety-conscious wincing: Curtain airbags, for instance. In summary, Kiger introduces the newest design at a genuine budget price compared to the competition.
XUV300 vs Kia Sonet vs Renault Kiger 2021
As established earlier, Kiger came into the market early this year; thus, it is the most modern car here. Thus, it leads Renault’s new strategy in India with a segment-focused car specifically for the emerging consumer class. Although not outstanding, the Kiger provides just the proper amount of design, size, fuel efficiency, and most importantly, value.
Mahindra’s XUV300 stormed the segment in the first half of the year 2019, bringing in features that were unheard of in sub-4-meter SUVs. It remains the benchmark in terms of enticing consumers by offering an exhilarating drive, safety and strong engine choices. Comfort, on the other hand, is somewhat compromised since it features a rather stiff suspension system. The Sonet arrived in 2020, having learnt from the XUV300 that raised the bar in the compact SUV segment, into which the Sonet was launched with Kia’s design appeal, features list and reasonable pricing. It does not pack the same kind of punch as the XUV300, but it provides more comfort and even more cabin space.
Verdict
In this case, it is quite obvious that each car has features it possesses and which the other two do not possess. In this segment, it still maintains the title of being the best for those who want power and control in their hands. Some competitors may also have some of these features in the lower trim level, but they can be had for a lesser cost, which iswhyhy for families on a budget, the Renault Kiger should do the job for almost everything. This implies that buyers who are style-conscious and are looking for items with some specific features as those of the premium brands, can get what they want in the Kia Sonet. Last but not least, sellers push buyers to the wall, and the latter are left with no choice other than to decide which qualities should be considered crucial to the agreement.
In sum, the fun-seeking drivers, buyers who are inclined to the ‘value-for-money’ hypothesis, and the style aficionados who aim at luxurious interiors will not be disappointed with this amazing pool of subcompact SUV contenders in India. They are all different since each car focuses on a specific aspect and meets different needs and wants. C-segment sedan car buyers have certain prerequisites; some want performance and handling, while others care about getting the most features for their money. Those planning on going for a premium experience are more conscious of the amenities offered and the appearance of the place.
Lastly, with three great choices in mind, the subcompact SUV market in India can be considered as saturated. Each model is unique in the way it addresses the client’s needs, and the most important thing is to find the right balance between priorities and prices. When it comes to the best contender for a car, test drives and comprehensive research are advised to identify which model is most desirable and suitable. Fret not, for we have got you covered, and there is a small subcompact SUV for every type of consumer, whether it is the XUV300, Kiger or Sonet.
