Second Hand Kia Sonet vs Second Hand Hyundai Venue: Which One Should You Buy?

If you are in search of a mid-range subcompact SUV (under 4m), there's a high chance you have been looking at the Hyundai Venue and the Kia Sonet. Both of these vehicles are top choices in the new and used markets due to their aesthetically pleasing appearance, feature-packed interiors, and excellent performance. Both are built sharing the same K2 platform and come with 3 similar engine options, but they are quite different in terms of features and interiors.

But if you had to choose between a used Hyundai Venue and a used Kia Sonet, how would you arrive at a decision? In this blog, we’ll break things down in simple terms to help you choose the right used car without getting overwhelmed by specs and other technicalities.

The Basics: Hyundai Venue and Kia Sonet

Let's have a quick look at both vehicles before we proceed to compare them.

Design & Road Presence: Second Hand Kia vs Second Hand Venue

If appearance is important to you (and come on, it always is, at least a little bit), here's how they compare:

• Kia Sonet appears more aggressive and sporty. Its snarling front grille, LED DRLs, and SUV-like posture make it a head-turner when cruising down the road.

• The Hyundai Venue has a more upright, boxy profile. It appears slightly more understated and grown-up, which may appeal to some buyers.

   

Verdict: For a trendier, youthful feel, go for the Sonet. For simple, unadorned looks, the Venue is your best bet.

Interior & Features: Second Hand Kia vs Second Hand Venue

Here's where things get really interesting:

• The Kia Sonet has a lot to offer, even in its lower trims. You get features such as a 10.25-inch infotainment screen, ventilated seats, wireless charging, a Bose audio system, and connected car tech in higher trims.

   

• The Hyundai Venue isn't far behind. It also features a great touchscreen infotainment system, sunroof, wireless charging, and even paddle shifters on the turbo trims (depending on year and model).

   

Interior quality, however, is excellent in both. The cabin space is nearly the same and is comfortable and spacious enough for four adults. However, the cabin on the Sonet is wider than the Venue.

Verdict: If you're buying a mid or top variant second hand, the Sonet may offer more bang for your buck in features. But both feel equally premium inside.

Engine Options & Performance: Second Hand Kia vs Second Hand Venue

Since they share the same type of engine, the driving experience is quite similar. Here's what you'll usually find:

• 1.2L petrol (manual only): Great for city usage, but not very peppy on highways.
• 1.0L turbo petrol (iMT or DCT): Enjoyable drive, great pick-up, but potentially more expensive to operate in the long run.

• 1.5L diesel (manual or automatic): High fuel economy and plenty of torque, which is perfect for highway driving.

   

Verdict: Each is as lovely as the other. They both offer 3 engine options, and both have recently discontinued the iMT diesel variant, but you will be able to find them in the used car market.

Real-World Mileage Comparison: Second Hand Kia vs Second Hand Venue

Fuel economy is very important in second hand cars. Here's what you get:

These figures depend heavily on the car’s condition, service history, and driving habits.

Verdict: Diesel is the clear winner for mileage. But if you're not a heavy driver (less than 1000 km/month), petrol variants make more sense in the long run.

Ride Quality & Comfort: Second Hand Kia vs Second Hand Venue

This is where Hyundai usually wins. The Hyundai Venue features a more refined suspension system. It is slightly softer and thus provides improved ride quality, particularly on damaged roads and potholes.

Kia Sonet has a stiffer suspension. It's better suited for handling at high speeds, but too stiff for regular city driving.

Verdict: If you prefer comfort, the Venue is the way to go. If you enjoy the sporty and planted feeling, then Sonet wins.

Second hand Car Prices of the Kia Sonet and the Hyundai Venue

Depending on the year, variant, and condition, here's a rough idea of what you'll have to pay in the second hand market:

Prices vary based on location, variant, mileage, and condition.

Verdict: Both are similarly priced, but the Sonet tends to hold a slightly better resale value due to the prevalent perception that it is feature-rich.

Service, Maintenance & Reliability: Second Hand Kia vs Second Hand Venue

Both Hyundai and Kia offer excellent service networks. Spare parts are easily available, and maintenance costs are quite reasonable.

Average yearly maintenance cost:

• Petrol: ₹6,000 – ₹8,000
• Diesel: ₹7,500 – ₹10,000

• Turbo Petrol: Slightly more, as DCT needs more maintenance.

   

Tip: Ask for a full-service history when purchasing a second hand car. Additionally, consider opting for cars with extended warranties or service plans.

Verdict: It's a tie. Both are as good as each other when well-serviced.

Second Hand Kia vs Second Hand Venue: Which One To Buy?

Here's a quick summary:

Final Thoughts

You should buy a second hand Kia Sonet if you want:

• A bolder, younger SUV
• More features and tech at the top of your list

• Diesel automatic or a top-of-the-line variant

   

You should buy a second hand Hyundai Venue if you want:

• Better comfort and ride quality
• A cleaner, more mature design

• To stick with Hyundai's long-standing reputation

   

They're both eventually good compact SUVs. What you choose will depend totally upon your preferences and goals. So, test drive both of them if you have the chance, and take whichever feels right.