Hyundai Exter vs Kia Sonet (2026)
Hyundai Exter (₹5.81 Lakh – ₹9.65 Lakh) and Kia Sonet (₹7.45 Lakh – ₹14.36 Lakh) go head-to-head in the compact suv space. Here is how they compare on the numbers (October 2026).
- The Hyundai Exter is more affordable — it starts ₹1.64 Lakh lower than the Kia Sonet.
- The Kia Sonet is the more powerful car, with 118 bhp against 82 bhp.
- The Hyundai Exter is more efficient on paper — up to 27 kmpl vs 24.1 kmpl.
- The Hyundai Exter has the bigger boot: 391 litres vs 385 litres.
Specification Comparison
Shortlisting a third car? See the full three-way comparison →
Hyundai Exter in short
The Exter is Hyundai's entry SUV and the direct answer to the Tata Punch, blending hatchback running costs with a high-riding stance. It packs segment-first kit such as a dashcam with dual cameras, a sunroof and six airbags as standard. The dual-cylinder CNG option keeps boot space usable, a clever touch rivals lack.
Full Exter prices & variants →Kia Sonet in short
The Kia Sonet is one of the most feature-loaded sub-4-metre SUVs on sale, and its 2024 facelift sharpened the styling while making six airbags standard across the range. It remains the only car in its class to offer a diesel-automatic combination, giving it a unique selling point against the Tata Nexon, Maruti Brezza, Hyundai Venue and Mahindra XUV 3XO. The wide engine-gearbox matrix and segment-first features like ventilated seats and a 360-degree camera keep it a strong all-rounder.
Full Sonet prices & variants →Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper: Exter or Sonet?
The Hyundai Exter is more affordable — it starts ₹1.64 Lakh lower than the Kia Sonet. (Ex-showroom prices, October 2026.)
Exter vs Sonet — which is safer?
NCAP ratings: Hyundai Exter — not yet tested; Kia Sonet — not yet tested.
Should I buy the Exter or the Sonet?
The Hyundai Exter is more affordable — it starts ₹1.64 Lakh lower than the Kia Sonet. The Kia Sonet is the more powerful car, with 118 bhp against 82 bhp. The Hyundai Exter is more efficient on paper — up to 27 kmpl vs 24.1 kmpl. Beyond the numbers, shortlist by test-driving both — ride quality and dealer experience differ by city.