Is buying the Sonet 1-litre TGDi DCT model a good decision, considering the reports about HPFP issues?

Autocar India

•22w

There have been some reports of high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) issues with the 1-litre turbo-petrol engine on the Kia Sonet and Hyundai Venue. While these pumps are typically replaced under warranty, the process can still cause inconvenience and, in some cases, minor expenses.

If you’re looking for a more reliable alternative, the Kia Sonet 1.5-litre diesel automatic is smoother and more enjoyable to drive than the 1-litre TGDi DCT. The only caveat is that you’ll need to regenerate the diesel particulate filter (DPF) periodically by driving at a steady speed for an extended stretch every few weeks.

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Sonet

from ₹8.59 Lakh

Hyundai

Venue

from ₹9.39 Lakh

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More questions on similar cars

Taher Vohra

•5w

Hi everyone, I am buying a car for the first time and am looking for some guidance. After some research and test drives, I have finalised the Kia Sonet HTX DCT, which costs around 714 lakh on-road. The main reason for choosing this variant is that I want a proper automatic driving experience along with premium features, decent space, reasonable mileage, and acceptable safety. I work from home, so my usage will mostly be limited to weekends. I live in a Tier 2 city (Nashik) where I don't face prolonged bumper-to-bumper traffic. The car will mainly be used for city driving on weekends, occasional short trips, and a few long highway drives with family and luggage. In the past, I have driven the Maruti Swift ZXI and Tata Nexon, both manuals, so this will be my first automatic car. My biggest concern at this point is the long-term reliability of the Kia/Hyundai DCT dry-clutch gearbox. I am getting a 6-year warranty (standard + extended), which also covers the gearbox. However, after the warranty period, any major issue with the DCT could be very expensive to fix. Although my running is expected to be low and I don't think I will even cross 50K km in five years, this concern still keeps bothering me. Before finalising the Sonet, I had initially planned to go for a TC, and test drove the XUV 3XO and the Maruti Fronx. While both cars were decent, they didn't tick all the boxes for me, which is why I dropped them. I am also avoiding the Skoda Kylaq mainly because of concerns around after-sales service costs once the warranty period is over. I didn't want to go with an AMT or CVT either, and I am specifically looking within the sub-4m SUV segment. Given my usage pattern, city conditions, and low annual running, do you think opting for the Kia Sonet DCT makes sense in the long run? How concerned should I realistically be about the reliability of the DCT gearbox in my case? Looking forward to your suggestions and experiences.

Autocar India

•1d

Given that your usage isn't too heavy, you should go for the Kia Sonet HTX 1.0 TGDi DCT without a worry. A concern could arise when used frequently in bumper-to-bumper stop-and-go traffic, and that too if not driven with care. However, since you drive mostly on the weekend and through flowing traffic, we think it should be fine. The trade-off is quicker shifts when you're on the move, and this pairs well with the Sonet's sprightly 120hp turbo petrol engine. The compact SUV itself is well equipped and has premium interiors, but it does have a choppy ride, and its rear seat isn't particularly spacious. If those are concerns for you, also check out the Hyundai Venue HX6 1.0 TGDi DCT, which costs about the same. It uses the same powertrain, but as it's based on a new-gen platform, it has a more spacious cabin and a more comfortable ride. Additionally, the Skoda Kylaq with its punchy 1.0 TSI engine and smooth 6-speed AT gearbox is a great bet. The after-sales is far less of a concern these days than the brand's old reputation leads most to believe.

Shiva Kunal

My budget is around ₹13 lakh on-road. Can you please suggest a car with good mileage and a boot space of around 350 litres or more?

Autocar India

•1d

Go for the Maruti Suzuki Dzire ZXi+ MT. It stays well within your Rs 13 lakh budget, delivers a 24.79kpl ARAI efficiency, and offers a roomy 382‑litre boot.The Dzire also offers a comfortable and spacious cabin, and it has received a 5-star crash safety rating from Global NCAP and Bharat NCAP. You also get the peace of mind associated with Maruti ownership. The one thing you give up is the high ground clearance and elevated seating position you'd get in a compact SUV.If you want SUV-like clearance and a taller driving position, consider the Kia Sonet 1.2 HTK+(O) petrol instead. It has a claimed ARAI mileage of 18.83kpl, and its 385‑litre boot can fit in more cargo than you'd think.

Maruti Suzuki Dzire

Kia Sonet

Atul Rajput

•3d

Between the Hyundai Venue and Honda Elevate, which car is good for a city drive?

Autocar India

•6h

Pick the Hyundai Venue turbo petrol-DCT. Its 3995 mm footprint, light steering, and automatic gearbox make tight city traffic, U‑turns, and parking simpler than the larger Elevate.For city use, a smaller size is the biggest win. The Hyundai Venue is about 317 mm shorter than the Elevate (3995 mm vs ~4312 mm), so squeezing into gaps, basement ramps, and narrow parking slots is easier. The DCT automatic is convenient in bumper‑to‑bumper traffic, and the Venue's lighter controls mean it's easier to drive in the city and to park.The one thing you give up is rear space and boot volume. The Elevate’s longer body (about 300+ mm) seats three adults and carries weekend luggage more comfortably. If you regularly carry 4-5 adults or prefer a very smooth CVT feel over quick shifts, consider the Honda Elevate V CVT instead.

Hyundai Venue

Honda Elevate

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