Choosing between the Kia Sonet and Skoda Slavia can be challenging, especially if your budget is between ₹15 lakh and ₹19 lakh. Both cars offer great design, comfort, and performance—but cater to different driving needs. Let’s compare them based on fuel efficiency, performance, and practicality to help you make the right decision.
Fuel Efficiency Comparison
| Model | Engine & Transmission | Real-World Efficiency (km/l) |
|---|---|---|
| Skoda Slavia 1.0 Petrol Manual | 6-speed MT | 13.0 |
| Skoda Slavia 1.0 Petrol Automatic | 6-speed AT (Torque Converter) | 11.95 |
| Kia Sonet 1.0 Turbo-Petrol Manual | 6-speed iMT | 13.5 |
| Kia Sonet 1.0 Turbo-Petrol DCT | 7-speed DCT | 14.05 |
| Kia Sonet 1.5 Diesel Manual | 6-speed MT | 17.1 |
| Kia Sonet 1.5 Diesel Automatic | 6-speed AT | 16.3 |
Verdict on Efficiency
In real-world driving, the Kia Sonet diesel clearly wins with higher mileage and lower fuel costs. The Slavia petrol versions offer decent efficiency, but they are more sensitive to driving style and can consume more fuel in city conditions.
Driving Comfort and Performance
The Skoda Slavia delivers a more premium driving experience with excellent ride quality and high-speed stability. Its 1.0-litre turbo engine offers good mid-range punch, making highway drives more enjoyable. The cabin feels roomier, and the suspension absorbs bumps better than the Sonet.
The Kia Sonet, on the other hand, feels more agile and city-friendly. The diesel automatic variant offers smooth gear shifts and strong torque, making it ideal for daily commuting. It’s also well-equipped with modern features, touchscreen infotainment, wireless charging, and ventilated seats.
Practicality & Interior Space
The Sonet is a compact SUV, which means it’s easier to maneuver in city traffic and park in tight spaces. However, it can feel a bit cramped compared to the Slavia sedan, which offers better rear-seat legroom and a larger boot space, perfect for long trips.
Safety & Build Quality
Both cars come with multiple airbags, ABS, ESC, and other safety features. The Skoda Slavia, being built on the robust MQB-A0-IN platform, feels more solid and stable on highways. The Sonet also has a strong safety package, but the Slavia’s European build gives it an edge in crash safety and handling.
Which One Should You Buy?
If fuel efficiency and city driving convenience are your top priorities, go for the Kia Sonet diesel—it’s practical, efficient, and packed with features. But if you prefer space, comfort, and a more engaging driving experience, the Skoda Slavia 1.0 remains a premium and enjoyable choice.
Based on a monthly running of around 1,500 km, the Sonet diesel automatic makes the most sense economically. Still, the Slavia is the pick for those who want a sedan that feels luxurious and stable at high speeds—just be prepared for slightly higher fuel bills.
Ashish Rai is a professional automotive writer with four years of experience crafting reviews, features, and technical guides. Passionate about vehicles, he translates complex engineering concepts into engaging content. Covering market trends, EV developments, and driving experiences, Ashish delivers insightful, reader-friendly articles that ignite automotive enthusiasm worldwide consistently with integrity.
