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AC

Anand C

13w

I own a Kia Sonet iMT (Dec-2020 model) and recently started experiencing noticeable juddering while driving in 1st gear. The service centre advised me to apply more accelerator input, saying this behaviour is common in iMT vehicles. I want to understand whether this issue is genuinely common in iMT gearboxes or if it indicates an underlying problem. Since my extended warranty expires on 15 Dec 2025, I would also like to know if any specific components related to this issue should be checked or replaced under warranty. Please advise.

Autocar India team

Autocar India

Verified
13w

There can be a small amount of low-rpm shudder in first gear if you are crawling in traffic at very low speeds. But if it is constant and happens even at higher revs, then there is a problem.


There are known cases of the Kia Sonet iMT having a judder in first gear. So the dealer cannot call this normal. These juddering points to a problem with the iMT mechanism. Typically, the clutch or an actuator. It should be solved, especially since your warranty is about to expire.


Make it clear to the dealer that the issue is not because of your driving style, but it’s a genuine problem. Request a written report on your problem and ask them to escalate it to Kia. Get the complaint logged before December 15th to protect your warranty claim.


If the dealer does not cooperate, try another dealer. You can also email [email protected], and we will escalate the issue to the company.

Kia Sonet

Kia Sonet

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AS

A Surchand Singh

3w

I would not recommend anyone for use of kia sonet imt. I was wrong by purchase kia sonet

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JAYAPRAKASH

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I currently own a 2018 Honda WR-V diesel manual (6-speed), which has run about 50,000 km, along with a Tata EV purchased in 2023, which has covered around 20,000 km. I have now decided to replace my WR-V with a BS6 diesel automatic car. Could you please suggest which diesel automatic model would be the best choice according to Autocar?

Autocar India team

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Without knowing your budget and more requirements, we can't recommend the ideal choice for you. We have shortlisted models that you should consider, and why they are of interest. Compact SUVs- Hyundai Venue: (+) Smooth diesel engine and auto gearbox combo, good interior space, upmarket interior | (-) Expensive for its size- Kia Sonet: (+) Smooth diesel engine and auto gearbox combo, upmarket interior, good value | (-) Rear seat space is limited, due to be replaced in the coming year Midsize SUVs- Kia Seltos: (+) Spacious interior, well equipped, good ride comfort | (-) Performance is adequate only- Tata Sierra: (+) Class-best space, feature-packed, tough build, ride comfort | (-) Engine feels noisy, road noise- Hyundai Creta: (+) Well equipped, decent performance | (-) Due to be replaced in the coming year

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Jithin

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I am looking to buy my first car. I am currently looking at the Kia Sonet Diesel Automatic 1.5, which comes at ₹16.25 lakh and the Skoda Slavia Sportline Auto at ₹17 lakh. My main usage would be travelling between Kochi and Bangalore and occasional city drives in and around both cities. I had a Ford Figo 1.5 TDCi earlier, which I loved and would prefer something with a similar driving punch. Which would be an apt choice?

Autocar India team

Autocar India

Verified
12h

Since a large part of your driving will be on the Kochi-Bengaluru highway and you enjoyed the performance of your old Ford Figo 1.5 TDCi, choosing a car with strong performance and relaxed cruising ability will make your drives more enjoyable.Between the two, you will likely be happier with the Skoda Slavia 1.5 TSI with the 7-speed DSG. It offers superior performance and refinement compared to the Kia Sonet diesel automatic, especially for highway usage. The Slavia’s turbo-petrol engine delivers effortless acceleration, and the DSG gearbox shifts quickly and smoothly, which makes overtaking and long-distance cruising feel easy.Another advantage is that the 1.5-litre engine features cylinder deactivation, which shuts down two cylinders under light loads such as steady cruising. This helps improve fuel efficiency when driving on the highway. The Slavia also feels more planted and stable at higher speeds, which will be noticeable on your frequent intercity drives.However, we would recommend waiting a little before making the purchase. The Slavia facelift is expected soon, and with it around the corner, it makes sense to see what updates and features the refreshed model brings before committing to the current version.

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Sanjay Sharma

5d

Hi sir, I am looking to buy a new car, approximately under ₹11 lakh and am confused between the Kia Sonet HTK Plus and Skoda Kylaq Signature Plus petrol. My running is daily 50 km on the highway. Kindly advise which model and variant I should go for.

Autocar India team

Autocar India

Verified
21h

Both cars are good options and would be fine for highway driving; however, between the two, we would recommend you lean towards the Skoda Kylaq, as the Sonet is older and will be updated in about a year or so.On the other hand, the Kylaq is far newer and would thus also get you a much better resale value. At city speeds, the Kylaq's ride is firm; however, stability at speed is very good, as is body control around corners, with good amounts of grip on offer. This is something you would benefit from, given that you drive daily on the highway.

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Posted on: 11 Dec 2025