BMW 3 Series vs KIA Sonet Panel Van
A proper head-to-head in South Africa — compare price, performance, fuel economy or electric range, safety and the details that shape long-term ownership.
Share
BMW 3 Series
M340i xDrive Sedan
Petrol
8-Speed Automatic
Current
ZAR 1,362,500
ex-showroom
⚡ 285 kW
🔧 500 Nm
⛽ 12.5 km/l
VS
KIA Sonet Panel Van
1.5 LS Panel Van CVT
Petrol
CVT
Current
ZAR 359,995
ex-showroom
⚡ 85 kW
🔧 143 Nm
⛽ 16.9 km/l
＋
Add a 3rd car
Decision summary
BMW 3 Series vs KIA Sonet Panel Van: the short answer
3 Series holds a noticeable catalogue-index lead over Sonet Panel Van.
Sonet Panel Van starts ZAR 571,505 cheaper
3 Series from ZAR 911,500 · Sonet Panel Van from ZAR 339,995
Five key differences
Exact selected derivativesSwipe sideways to compare every column
| Specification | 3 Series | Sonet Panel Van |
|---|---|---|
| Maximum Power | 3 Series285 kW | Sonet Panel Van85 kW @ 6300 rpm |
| Maximum Torque | 3 Series500 Nm @ 1800-5000 rpm | Sonet Panel Van143 Nm @ 4000 rpm |
| Engine Size | 3 Series2998 cc | Sonet Panel Van1497 cc |
| Combined Fuel Economy | 3 Series12.5 km/l | Sonet Panel Van16.9 km/l |
| Ground Clearance | 3 Series140 mm | Sonet Panel Van211 mm |
Strongest published figure in that row; no road-test winner is implied.
Independent editorial assessment
Hagalu editorial ratings
When a variant is selected, its rating out of five applies only to that exact derivative; a model-range review is not inherited. Editorial ratings are separate from the Specification Evidence Index out of 100 and are not customer ratings.
KIA Sonet Panel Van
1.5 LS Panel Van CVT
Hagalu editorial rating
Not yet rated
No complete editorial rating is published for this exact variant. This is not a zero score.
How Hagalu rates cars →Not yet rated means a complete review is not published; it does not mean the vehicle scored zero. Read the rating methodology.
What Each Car Gets Right (and Wrong)
Specification evidence leader
3 Series
Strengths
- More powerful engine output
- Stronger listed safety equipment
- Stronger published practicality figures
Weak Spots
- Lower fuel efficiency
Best suited to:
Published Performance
Published Practicality
Sonet Panel Van
Strengths
- Better fuel efficiency
Weak Spots
- Less powerful engine setup
- Fewer listed safety features
- Lower published practicality figures
Best suited to:
Published Efficiency
Which One's Right for You?
3 Series
- Buyers prioritising the stronger published powertrain figures
- Buyers prioritising the more complete listed safety equipment
- Buyers prioritising the stronger published space and capacity figures
Sonet Panel Van
- Buyers prioritising the lower published fuel or energy use
Full Specs, Side by Side
Open a category, then swipe sideways to compare every column
| Spec | 3 Series | Sonet Panel Van |
|---|---|---|
| Model Introduced Year | 2019 | 2022 |
| Generation | Seventh-generation G20 BMW 3 Series Sedan, with regular 320i, 320d and 330i derivatives and an M340i xDrive M Performance flagship. | Commercial derivative of first-generation Sonet BC3 platform |
| Facelift History | The seventh-generation G20 has received successive design and interior updates; the current South African page reflects the latest local specification. | No significant facelift; tracks Sonet passenger model updates |
| Facelift Launched Since | Original current-generation version | Original current-generation version |
| Facelift Version Ending | Current | Current |
| Body Style | Sedan | Van |
| Model Year | 2026 | 2026 |
| Production Status | active | active |
| Segment | Premium Sedan | Van |
| Vehicle Type | Car | Van |
| Dealer Stock Note | - | Mid grade in the South Africa lineup |
| Color Note | - | Clear White, Aurora Black Pearl |
| Tare Mass Kg | - | 1230 kg |
| Spec | 3 Series | Sonet Panel Van |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 4714 mm | 3995 mm |
| Width | 1827 mm | 1790 mm |
| Height | 1440 mm | 1635 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2851 mm | 2500 mm |
| Ground Clearance (Default) | 140 mm | 211 mm |
| Ground Clearance (With Full Seating Load) | 125 mm | 190 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 l | 45 l |
| Boot/Cargo Space | 480 l | 1296 l |
| Kerb Weight | 1770 kg | 1230 kg |
| Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) | 2245 kg | 1670 kg |
| Payload Capacity | 550 kg | 350 kg |
| Towing Capacity | 1800 kg | 1100 kg |
| Seating Capacity | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Rows | 2 rows | 1 rows |
| Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Minimum Turning Radius | 5.6 m | 10.4 m |
| Front Headroom | 990 mm | 990 mm |
| Rear Headroom | 951 mm | Not Applicable |
| Front Legroom | 1040 mm | 1030 mm |
| Rear Legroom | 900 mm | Not Applicable |
| Spec | 3 Series | Sonet Panel Van |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | BMW turbocharged engine | 1.5-litre Naturally Aspirated Petrol |
| Engine Code | B48 | G4LC |
| Fuel Type | Petrol | Petrol |
| Hybrid System | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Engine Displacement | 2998 cc | 1497 cc |
| Cylinders | 6 | 4 |
| Cylinder Layout | Inline | Inline |
| Valves | 16 | 16 |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 | 4 |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | Naturally Aspirated |
| Fuel System | Direct injection | Direct Injection |
| Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 13.0:1 |
| Bore | 82.0 mm | 75 mm |
| Stroke | 94.6 mm | 84.5 mm |
| Maximum Power | 285 kW | 85 kW @ 6300 rpm |
| Maximum Torque | 500 Nm @ 1800-5000 rpm | 143 Nm @ 4000 rpm |
| Combined Power | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Combined Torque | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Motor Type | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Number of Motors | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Motor Location | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Drive Type | AWD | FWD |
| Transmission | 8-Speed Automatic | CVT |
| Top Speed | 250 km/h | 172 km/h |
| 0-100 km/h | 4.3 sec | 11.2 sec |
| Quarter Mile | 12.2 sec | Not Officially Disclosed |
| Drive Modes | Eco, Comfort, Sport | No |
| Launch Control | No | No |
| Rev Limiter | 7000 rpm | Not Officially Disclosed |
| Power-to-Weight Ratio | 100 kW/tonne | 69.1 kW/tonne |
| Torque-to-Weight Ratio | 220 Nm/tonne | 116.3 Nm/tonne |
| Battery Capacity | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Usable Battery Capacity | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Battery Type | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Battery Voltage | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Electric Range | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| AC Charging Power | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| DC Charging Power | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| AC Charging Time | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| DC Charging Time | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Regenerative Braking | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Spec | 3 Series | Sonet Panel Van |
|---|---|---|
| Gearbox | 8-Speed Automatic | Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT) |
| Drivetrain Layout | All-wheel drive | FWD |
| LSD Available | Not Applicable | No |
| Transfer Case | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Differential Lock | Not Applicable | No |
| Paddle Shifters | Yes | No |
| Final Drive Ratio | Yes | 3.56 |
| Number of Gears | 8 | CVT |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Continuously Variable Transmission |
| Clutch Type | Yes | Torque Converter |
| Gear Shift Indicator | Yes | No |
| Gear Shift Type | Automatic selector | Automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | FWD |
| 4WD Engagement | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| 4WD Hi Range | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| 4WD Lo Range | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| 4WD Selector | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Automatic Shift Paddles | Yes | No |
| Front Differential Lock | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Gearbox Type | Automatic | Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT) |
| Low Range Ratio | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Low Range | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Axle Layout | Yes | FWD |
| Rear Differential Lock | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Transmission Speeds | 8 | CVT |
| Engine Position | - | Front Transverse |
| Steering Turns Lock to Lock | - | 15.1:1 |
| Transfer Case Guard | - | Not Available |
| Differential Type Front | - | Not Available |
| Differential Type Rear | - | Not Available |
| Spec | 3 Series | Sonet Panel Van |
|---|---|---|
| Claimed Mileage | 12.5 km/l | 16.9 km/l |
| City Mileage | 10.5 km/l | 13.7 km/l |
| Highway Mileage | 15.0 km/l | 20.0 km/l |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 l | 45 l |
| Emission Standard | Euro 6 | Euro 6 |
| AdBlue Tank Capacity | Not Applicable | No |
| Auto Start Stop | Standard | Yes |
| Real-world Mileage | 12.5 km/l | 16.9 km/l |
| Charging Port Type | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Charging Type | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Fuel Tank Litres | 59 | 45 |
| Combined Driving Range | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Electric Consumption | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Range Real World Highway | 360 km | Not Applicable |
| Range Real World Mixed | 420 km | Not Applicable |
| Low Fuel Warning | - | Yes |
| Spec | 3 Series | Sonet Panel Van |
|---|---|---|
| Airbags | 6 | 6 |
| ABS | Standard | Yes |
| Electronic Stability Control | Standard | Yes |
| Traction Control | Standard | Yes |
| Hill Descent Control | Yes | Not Available |
| Hill Start Assist | Standard | Yes |
| Child Safety Lock | Standard | Yes |
| ISOFIX Mounts | Standard | Yes |
| Brake Assist | Standard | Yes |
| Tyre Pressure Monitor | Standard | Yes |
| Engine Immobiliser | Standard | Yes |
| Seatbelt Warning All Seats | Standard | Yes |
| Front Parking Sensors | Yes | No |
| AEB | Yes | No |
| BA | Standard | Yes |
| Brake Override System | Yes | Yes |
| Curtain Airbags | Yes | Yes |
| Driver Airbag | Yes | Yes |
| EBD | Standard | Yes |
| Engine Immobiliser | Standard | Yes |
| Hill Hold | Standard | Yes |
| Passenger Airbag | Yes | Yes |
| Rear Cross Traffic Alert | Yes | No |
| Seatbelt Pretensioners | Yes | Yes |
| Seatbelt Reminder | Standard | Yes |
| Side Airbags | Yes | Yes |
| Stability Control | Standard | Yes |
| TCS | Standard | Yes |
| Knee Airbag | Yes | No |
| ABS EBD | Standard | Yes |
| Side Impact Beams | - | Yes |
| Whiplash Protection | - | Yes |
| Pedestrian Detection AEB | - | No |
| Lane Change Warning | - | No |
| Blind Spot Monitoring | - | No |
| Fatigue Detection | - | No |
| Speed Alert System | - | Yes |
| Safety Rating | - | 5 |
| Central Locking | - | Yes |
| Alarm System | - | Yes |
| ESC With Traction Control | - | Yes |
| Driver Front Passenger Airbags | - | 6 |
| Driver Passenger Airbags | - | 6 |
| Anti Theft Alarm | - | Yes |
| Spec | 3 Series | Sonet Panel Van |
|---|---|---|
| Cruise Control | Standard | Yes |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | Yes | No |
| Lane Keep Assist | Yes | No |
| Lane Departure Warning | Yes | No |
| Blind Spot Monitoring | Yes | No |
| Rear Cross Traffic Alert | Yes | No |
| Parking Sensors | Yes | Yes |
| Rear View Camera | Yes | Yes |
| 360 Degree Camera | Yes | No |
| Autonomous Emergency Braking | Yes | No |
| Driver Fatigue Alert | Yes | No |
| Traffic Sign Recognition | Yes | No |
| Auto Highbeam | Standard | No |
| Auto Wipers | Yes | No |
| Rear Parking Sensors | Yes | Yes |
| Reverse Camera | Yes | Yes |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | Yes | No |
| Park Assist | Standard | No |
| Around View Monitor | Yes | No |
| Blind Spot Warning | Yes | No |
| Forward Collision Warning | Yes | No |
| EV Mode | - | No |
| Reversing Camera | - | Yes |
| Auto Lights | - | No |
| Eco Mode | - | No |
| Sport Mode | - | No |
| Emergency Braking | - | No |
| Pre-Collision System | - | No |
| Rear View Camera | - | Yes |
| Reverse Camera Type | - | Yes |
| Surround View Camera | Yes | No |
| Parking Distance Sensors | - | Yes |
| Parking Sensor | - | Yes |
| Front Camera | - | No |
| Automatic High Beam | - | No |
| Rain Sensor Wipers | - | No |
| Spec | 3 Series | Sonet Panel Van |
|---|---|---|
| Seat Material | Leather 'Vernasca' Black with contrast stitching Blue | Cloth |
| Heated Seats | Yes | No |
| Ventilated Seats | Yes | No |
| Ambient Lighting | Standard | No |
| Steering Wheel Material | Yes | Leather |
| 60 40 Split Seat | Yes | Yes |
| Driver Seat Adjustment | Electric with driver memory | 6-Way Manual |
| Passenger Seat Adjustment | Electric multi-way | 4-Way Manual |
| Seat Trim | M Sport Seats | Cloth |
| Front Shoulder Room | - | 1380 mm |
| Rear Shoulder Room | - | 1330 mm |
| Steering Type | - | Yes |
| Steering Adjustment | - | Tilt and Telescopic |
| Rear USB Ports | - | No |
| Instrument Cluster Type | - | Digital |
| Rear AC Vents | - | No |
| Cooled Seats | - | No |
| Fabric Seats | - | Yes |
| Leather Seats | - | No |
| Adjustable Driver Seat | - | 6-Way Manual |
| Seat Adjustment | - | 6-Way Manual |
| Adjustable Front Seat | - | 4-Way Manual |
| Driver Lumbar Support | - | No |
| Memory Seats | - | No |
| Folding Rear Seats | - | Yes |
| Front Headrest | - | Adjustable |
| Rear Headrest | - | Adjustable |
| Front Armrest | - | Centre Armrest |
| Rear Armrest | - | Yes |
| Door Map Pockets | - | Yes |
| Cup Holders | - | 4 |
| Interior Colour Options | - | Black |
| Interior Courtesy Lamps | - | 2-seat cab, sealed cargo bulkhead, touchscreen infotainment, air conditioning, 205mm ground clearance |
| Boot Space Seats Down | - | 1143 |
| Seat Belt Warning | - | Yes |
| Leather Accented Seat Trim | - | Cloth |
| Driver Seat | - | 6-Way Manual |
| Seat Fold Type | - | Yes |
| Armrest Front | - | Centre Armrest |
| Armrest Rear | - | Yes |
| Rear Seat Centre Armrest | - | Yes |
| Interior Colours | - | Black |
| Interior Trim Colour | - | Black |
| Seat Adjustment Driver Backrest | - | No |
| Spec | 3 Series | Sonet Panel Van |
|---|---|---|
| Climate Control | Standard | No |
| Power Windows | Standard | Yes |
| Keyless Entry | Comfort Access | No |
| Push Button Start | Yes | No |
| Wireless Charging | Standard | No |
| Sunroof | Glass sunroof, electric (no sliding-roof function) | No |
| Electric Tailgate | Standard | No |
| Rain Sensing Wipers | Yes | No |
| AC Type | Standard | No |
| Intercooler | - | No |
| Rev Matching | - | No |
| Performance Data Logger | - | No |
| Fuel Consumption Combined | - | 5.9 |
| Engine Start Stop | Yes | No |
| Engine Start Stop Button | Yes | No |
| Engine Start Button Illumination | - | No |
| Engine Check Warning | - | Yes |
| Drag Coefficient | - | 0.34 |
| Roof Load | - | 50 kg |
| Boot Space Seats Folded | - | 1143 l |
| Stabilizer Bar | - | Yes |
| Steering Response | - | Normal |
| Skid Plates | - | No |
| Side Steps | - | No |
| Spare Wheel | Tyre repair kit | Temporary Spare |
| Tyre Repair Kit | - | No |
| Seatbelt Pre Tensioner | - | Yes |
| Hill Start Assist | - | Yes |
| Speed Limiter | - | Yes |
| Speed Alert System | - | Yes |
| Impact Sensing Door Unlock | - | Yes |
| Surround View Monitor | Yes | No |
| Adaptive Dampers | - | No |
| Voice Command | - | Yes |
| Voice Command Support | - | Yes |
| Digital Speedometer | - | Yes |
| Driver Display | - | Digital Cluster |
| Heads Up Display | - | No |
| Tachometer | - | Yes |
| Trip Computer | - | Yes |
| Multi Function Steering | - | Yes |
| Steering Mounted Controls | - | Yes |
| Air Conditioning | Standard | No |
| Climate Zones | - | 1 |
| Rear Air Conditioning | - | No |
| Glovebox Cooling | - | No |
| Seat Type | - | Fabric Seats |
| Driver Seat Height Adjustment | - | No |
| Rear Seat Split | - | Yes |
| Headrest Adjustable | - | Yes |
| Front Armrest | - | Yes |
| Vanity Mirror | - | Yes |
| 12V Accessory Socket | - | Yes |
| Front Power Outlet | - | Yes |
| Rear Reading Lamps | - | Yes |
| Push Button Start | Yes | No |
| Remote Engine Start | - | No |
| Remote Start | - | No |
| Remote Central Locking | - | Yes |
| Door Ajar Warning | - | Yes |
| Fuel Lid Opener | - | Remote |
| Boot Opener | - | Remote |
| Power Mirrors | - | Yes |
| Heated Mirrors | - | No |
| Electric Folding Mirrors | - | Yes |
| Electric Mirror Folding | - | No |
| Remote Side Mirror | - | Yes |
| Auto Dimming Irvm | - | No |
| Auto Dimming Mirror | - | No |
| Rear Window Defroster | - | Yes |
| Rear Defogger | - | Yes |
| Follow Me Home Headlamps | - | Yes |
| Tail Lamps | - | Yes |
| Automatic Headlamps | - | No |
| Headlamp Height Adjust | - | Yes |
| Headlamp Washer | - | No |
| Panoramic Roof | Glass sunroof, electric (no sliding-roof function) | No |
| Roof Antenna | - | Yes |
| Rear Wing | - | Yes |
| Aero Kit | - | No |
| Chrome Grille | - | Yes |
| Chrome Exterior Highlights | - | No |
| Ride Mode Selection | - | No |
| Powered Tailgate | - | No |
| Engine Warranty | - | 7 Years / 150,000 km |
| Service Reminder | - | Yes |
| Trim Level | - | mid |
| Variant Role | - | Commercial utility derivative |
| Accelerator 0 100 | - | 11.2 sec |
| Common Rail Injection | - | Gasoline Direct Injection |
| Diff Lock | - | No |
| Difflock | - | No |
| Vdc | - | Yes |
| TPMS | Standard | Yes |
| Sonar | - | Yes |
| Automatic High Beam | - | No |
| Steering Column Adjustment | - | Tilt and Telescopic |
| Tilt Steering | - | Tilt and Telescopic |
| Telescopic Steering | - | Tilt and Telescopic |
| Bottle Holders | - | 4 |
| Glove Box | - | Yes |
| Manual Aircon | - | No |
| Intelligent Keyless Entry | - | No |
| Passive Entry Start | - | No |
| Wireless Charger | Standard | No |
| Lift Gate | - | No |
| Electric Fold Indicator Mirrors | - | No |
| Power Socket 12v | - | Yes |
| Sound System | 6 | 4 |
| Roof Rack Compatibility | - | Yes |
| Mirror | - | Electric |
| Rim Size | 19" M Lt/Aly wheels double spoke 792 M Bicolour Jet Black / MT and runflat tyres | 215/60 R16 |
| Stabilizer Bar Front | - | Yes |
| Stabilizer Bar Rear | - | Yes |
| Sub Frame | - | Unibody |
| Vehicle To Grid | - | Not Available |
| Vehicle To Load | - | Not Available |
| One Pedal Driving | - | Not Available |
| Regenerative Braking Levels | - | Not Available |
| Rear Electric Motor | - | Not Available |
| Battery Preconditioning | - | Not Available |
| Source Model Column | - | sonet-panel-van |
| Intelligent Battery System | - | Not Available |
| Front Diff Lock | - | Not Available |
| Rear Diff Lock | - | Not Available |
| Loadbox Depth Mm | - | Not Available |
| Load Bed Cover | - | Not Available |
| Load Bed Light | - | Not Available |
| Load Bed Steps | - | Not Available |
| Loadbox Rope Hooks | - | Not Available |
| Loadbox Tiedown Brackets | - | Not Available |
| Bed Extender | - | Not Available |
| Canopy Fitment | - | Not Available |
| Sports Bar | - | Not Available |
| Tailgate Damper | - | Not Available |
| Tailgate Lock | - | Not Available |
| Tow Bar Type | - | Not Available |
| Sport Plus Mode | - | Not Available |
| Unlocking | Comfort Access | No |
| Walk Away Lock | - | No |
| Walk Away Auto Door Lock | - | No |
| Rear LED Combination Taillights | - | Yes |
| Front Wiper | - | Yes |
| Front Wipers Type | - | Yes |
| Rearview Mirror Inside | - | No |
| Vanity Mirror Illuminated | - | Yes |
| Reading Lights Rear | - | Yes |
| Centre Console | - | Centre Armrest |
| Side Impact Bars | - | Yes |
| Boot Space Seats Folded | - | 1143 l |
| Load Bed Length | - | Not Applicable |
| Loadbox Length Mm | - | Not Applicable |
| Load Bed Width | - | Not Applicable |
| Loadbox Width Mm | - | Not Applicable |
| Spec | 3 Series | Sonet Panel Van |
|---|---|---|
| Infotainment System | Widescreen Display | 8.0-inch Touchscreen |
| Apple CarPlay | Yes | Yes |
| Android Auto | Yes | Yes |
| Bluetooth Connectivity | Yes | Yes |
| Number of Speakers | 6 | 4 |
| Digital Instrument Cluster | BMW Live Cockpit Professional (includes head-up display) | Yes |
| USB Ports | 2 | 2 |
| Infotainment Screen | 14.9 | 8.0 |
| Touchscreen | 14.9 | 8.0 |
| Infotainment Display | - | 8.0 |
| Infotainment Screen Size | 14.9 | 8.0 |
| Navigation System | - | Yes |
| Wireless Apple CarPlay | Yes | Yes |
| Rear Usb | - | No |
| AUX Input | - | No |
| Wi-Fi Hotspot | - | No |
| Premium Audio | - | No |
| FM Radio | - | Yes |
| Radio | - | Yes |
| Voice Recognition | - | Yes |
| Head Up Display | - | No |
| Audio Controls On Steering | - | Yes |
| Steering Wheel Audio Controls | - | Yes |
| Multi Information Display | - | Digital |
| Display Audio | - | 8.0-inch Touchscreen |
| Smartphone Connectivity | - | Yes |
| Connected Services | - | Yes |
| Audio Speakers | 6 | 4 |
| Front Rear USB Charge Ports | - | 2 |
| Voice Control | - | Yes |
| Audio | - | Yes |
| Audio System | - | Yes |
| Wireless Android Auto | Yes | Yes |
| Spec | 3 Series | Sonet Panel Van |
|---|---|---|
| LED Headlamps | Standard | No |
| Daytime Running Lamps | Standard | Yes |
| Fog Lamps | Yes | No |
| Roof Rails | Yes | Yes |
| Exterior Colour Options | Multiple manufacturer colours | Multiple |
| Headlights | Standard | No |
| Panoramic Sunroof | Yes | No |
| Front Overhang | - | 800 mm |
| Rear Overhang | - | 695 mm |
| Body Type | - | Panel Van |
| Alloy Wheel Design | - | Steel |
| Wing Mirror Type | - | Electric |
| Rear Wiper | - | Yes |
| Led Headlights | Standard | No |
| DRL | Standard | Yes |
| Led Taillights | - | Yes |
| Fog Lights | - | No |
| Front Fog Lights | - | No |
| Rear Fog Lights | - | Yes |
| Roof Type | - | Standard |
| Rear Spoiler | - | Yes |
| Body Cladding | - | No |
| Chrome Exterior Finish | - | No |
| Door Handle Finish | - | Body Colour |
| Exterior Colour Options | - | 2 |
| Exterior Mirror Electric | - | Yes |
| Auto Headlights | - | No |
| Automatic Headlamps | - | No |
| Headlamps | Standard | No |
| Headlight Type | Standard | No |
| Exterior Mirror Folding | - | No |
| Headlamp Levelling | - | No |
| Daytime Running Lights | Standard | Yes |
| Front Fog Lamps | Yes | No |
| Rear Spoiler | - | Yes |
| Exterior Door Handle Colour | - | Body Colour |
| Load Bed Liner | - | Not Available |
| Active Exhaust | - | Not Available |
| Electric Blind Sunroof | - | Standard |
| Spec | 3 Series | Sonet Panel Van |
|---|---|---|
| Approach Angle | Not Applicable | 21 deg |
| Departure Angle | Not Applicable | 35 deg |
| Wading Depth | Not Applicable | Not Available |
| Terrain Modes | Not Applicable | Not Available |
| Locking Differential | Not Applicable | No |
| 4WD System Type | All-wheel drive | Not Applicable |
| Breakover Angle | Not Applicable | 16 deg |
| Ramp Breakover Angle | - | 16 deg |
| Ramp-over Angle | - | 18 deg |
| Recovery Hooks | - | No |
| Underbody Protection | - | No |
| Hill Descent Control | Yes | Not Available |
| Ground Clearance Min | - | 211 mm |
| Ground Clearance Max | - | 211 mm |
| Off Road Descent Control | - | Not Available |
| Terrain Response System | - | Not Available |
| Crawl Control | - | Not Available |
| Underbody Camera | - | Not Available |
| Energy Recovery Display | - | Not Available |
| Terrain Mode Mud | - | Not Available |
| Terrain Mode Normal | - | Not Available |
| Terrain Mode Rock | - | Not Available |
| Terrain Mode Sand | - | Not Available |
| Terrain Mode Snow | - | Not Available |
| Off Road Traction Assist | - | Not Available |
| Skid Plates Transfer Case | - | Not Available |
| Skid Plates Fuel Tank | - | Not Available |
| Front Skid Plate Guard | - | Not Available |
| Rear Skid Plate Guard | - | Not Available |
| Approach Angle Deg | - | 21 deg |
| Departure Angle Deg | - | 35 deg |
| Spec | 3 Series | Sonet Panel Van |
|---|---|---|
| Tyre Size | Runflat tyres | 215/60 R16 |
| Front Brake Type | Ventilated disc | Ventilated Disc |
| Rear Brake Type | Disc | Drum |
| Spare Wheel Type | Tyre repair kit | Temporary Spare |
| Wheel Rim Size | 19" M Lt/Aly wheels double spoke 792 M Bicolour Jet Black / MT and runflat tyres | 215/60 R16 |
| Handbrake Type | Electronic | Electronic |
| Brake Type Front | - | Ventilated Disc |
| Front Brake Disc Diameter | - | 280 mm |
| Brake Type Rear | - | Drum |
| Rear Brake Drum Diameter | - | 236 mm |
| Parking Brake Type | - | Electronic |
| Front Tyre Width | - | 215 mm |
| Rear Tyre Width | - | 215 mm |
| Wheel Diameter | 19" M Lt/Aly wheels double spoke 792 M Bicolour Jet Black / MT and runflat tyres | 215/60 R16 |
| Wheel Type | - | Steel |
| Tyre Type | - | Radial |
| Tyre Load Index | - | 102 |
| Tyre Speed Rating | - | H |
| Spare Tyre | Tyre repair kit | Temporary Spare |
| Tyre Pressure Monitoring | Standard | Yes |
| Tyre Pressure Display | - | Yes |
| Hydraulic Brake Assist | - | Yes |
| Autonomous Emergency Brake | - | No |
| Steering Wheel Audio Controls | - | Yes |
| Wheel Material | - | Steel |
| Wheels | - | Steel |
| Spare Wheel Size Type | - | Temporary Spare |
| Electric Park Brake | - | Electronic |
| Wheel Size Type | - | 215/60 R16 |
| Fifth Wheel Prep | - | Not Available |
| Steering Wheel Cruise Controls | - | Yes |
| Steering Wheel Phone Controls | - | Yes |
| Leather Steering Wheel | - | Leather |
| Steering Wheel Trim | - | Leather |
| Brakes | - | Ventilated Disc |
| Electronic Brakeforce Distribution | - | Yes |
| Cornering Brake Control | - | Yes |
| Auto Brake Hold | - | Electronic |
| Spec | 3 Series | Sonet Panel Van |
|---|---|---|
| Front Suspension | M Sports Suspension | MacPherson Strut |
| Rear Suspension | M Sports Suspension | Coupled Torsion Beam |
| Front Track Width | - | 1544 mm |
| Rear Track Width | - | 1536 mm |
| Chassis Type | - | Unibody |
| Front Spring Type | - | Coil Spring |
| Rear Spring Type | - | Coil Spring |
| Shock Absorber Type | - | Telescopic |
| Front Anti-Roll Bar | - | Yes |
| Rear Anti-Roll Bar | - | Yes |
| Power Steering | - | Yes |
| Steering Column | - | Adjustable |
| Front Suspension Type | M Sports Suspension | MacPherson Strut |
| Suspension | - | MacPherson Strut |
| Rear Suspension Type | M Sports Suspension | Coupled Torsion Beam |
| Rear Axle Type | - | Coupled Torsion Beam |
| Shock Absorbers | - | Telescopic |
| Chassis Material | - | Unibody |
| MagneRide Damping | - | Not Available |
| Spec | 3 Series | Sonet Panel Van |
|---|---|---|
| CO2 Emissions | 182 g/km | 138 g/km |
| Fuel Octane Requirement | - | 93 Octane |
| Variable Valve Timing | - | CVVT |
| Particulate Filter | - | No |
| Fuel Evaporation Control | - | Yes |
| Idle CO2 Output | - | 145 |
| Green NCAP Rating | - | 4 |
| Start Stop System | - | Yes |
| Euro Emission Standard | - | Euro 6 |
| Noise Level | - | 67 dB |
| CO2 Emissions G Km | - | 138 |
| Hybrid System Type | - | Not Available |
| Spec | 3 Series | Sonet Panel Van |
|---|---|---|
| Service Plan | 5 years / 100000 km BMW Motorplan | 3 Years / 45,000 km |
| Alternator | - | Yes |
| Engine Oil Capacity | - | 4.5 l |
| Engine Oil Change Interval | - | 15000 |
| Service Plan Duration | 5 years / 100000 km BMW Motorplan | 3 Years / 45,000 km |
| Service Plan Distance | 5 years / 100000 km BMW Motorplan | 3 Years / 45,000 km |
| Maintenance Plan | - | 3 Years / 45,000 km |
| Service Interval | - | 15000 |
| First Service At | - | 15000 |
| Approx Service Cost | - | R3,000 per service |
| Anti-Rust Treatment | - | Yes |
| Service Intervals | - | 15000 |
| Battery Warranty | - | 7 Years / 150,000 km |
| Spec | 3 Series | Sonet Panel Van |
|---|---|---|
| Ownership Role | Private, business and fleet | Mid |
| Price Zar | 1362500 ZAR | 359995 ZAR |
| Pricing Role | Current recommended retail price | Current listed price |
| Starting Price | 1362500 | 359995 |
| Starting Price Zar | 1362500 | 359995 |
| Spec | 3 Series | Sonet Panel Van |
|---|---|---|
| Warranty | Yes | 7 Years / 150,000 km |
| Basic Warranty | Yes | 7 Years / 150,000 km |
| Warranty Years | Yes | 7 Years / 150,000 km |
| Warranty Kilometers | Yes | 7 Years / 150,000 km |
| Anti-Corrosion Warranty | - | 5 Years |
| Roadside Assistance | - | 5 Years |
| Roadside Assistance | - | 5 Years |
| Warranty Roadside Assistance | - | 5 Years |
| Spec | 3 Series | Sonet Panel Van |
|---|---|---|
| Real-world City Mileage Min | - | 11.6 l/100km |
| Real-world City Mileage Max | - | 15.1 l/100km |
| Real-world Highway Mileage Min | - | 18.0 l/100km |
| Real-world Highway Mileage Max | - | 21.0 l/100km |
In depth: how these cars differ
This 3 Series and Sonet Panel Van comparison uses the exact derivatives selected above for South Africa. The catalogue index covers performance, efficiency, safety equipment, practicality and ownership cover only where comparable source-backed fields are present.
Performance index: 3 Series 97 vs Sonet Panel Van 36.
Efficiency index: 3 Series 49 vs Sonet Panel Van 65.
Safety-equipment index: 3 Series 92 vs Sonet Panel Van 72.
Practicality index: 3 Series 62 vs Sonet Panel Van 59.
Ownership-cover index: 3 Series not separately scored vs Sonet Panel Van 71.
These figures are Hagalu catalogue-comparison indicators, not customer ratings, crash-test scores, resale guarantees or a substitute for a road test. Each page shows its weighted source coverage beside the result.
Model imagery
3 Series and Sonet Panel Van image comparison
Open an image for its full canonical file or visit the model page for the complete vehicle record.
BMW 3 Series
View 8 more 3 Series images
KIA Sonet Panel Van
View 8 more Sonet Panel Van images
Specification Evidence Index
A transparent comparison of published catalogue fields. This is not a road-test score, owner rating or editorial review rating, and it appears only when every vehicle clears the same comparable-data threshold.
Evidence-index readout
3 Series leads by 18 points
3 Series holds a noticeable catalogue-index lead over Sonet Panel Van.
Evidence leader
77
/100
Lead
18
points
Data
83%
source coverage
77
#1
Evidence leader
3 Series
83% source coverage
2 strong categories
Best at
Performance 97
Check
Efficiency 49
Performance
97
Efficiency
49
Safety
92
Practicality
62
Leads by 18 points
59
#2
Sonet Panel Van
99% source coverage
2 strong categories
Best at
Safety 72
Check
Performance 36
Performance
36
Efficiency
65
Safety
72
Practicality
59
Ownership
71
Performance 24%
Safety 22%
Practicality 22%
Efficiency 17%
Ownership 15%
Category leaders
What moves the verdict
Performance
3 Series +61
Efficiency
Sonet Panel Van +16
Safety
3 Series +20
Practicality
3 Series +3
Moderate difference in the source-backed catalogue index.
Why this score View full breakdown
Evidence-index leader
3 Series
Performance
97/100
Efficiency
49/100
Safety
92/100
Practicality
62/100
Sonet Panel Van
Performance
36/100
Efficiency
65/100
Safety
72/100
Practicality
59/100
Ownership
71/100
What the evidence means
Evidence index
BMW 3 Series
leads the specification evidence index with 77 pts
vs 59 pts for Sonet Panel Van
In Hagalu's specification evidence index, 3 Series leads. However, Sonet Panel Van may suit buyers prioritising different confirmed fields. Ultimately, the right choice depends on your driving priorities in South Africa.
Related comparisons
Continue with closely related South Africa models and comparable body styles.
3 Series
VS
EX-8 Dropside
3 Series vs EX-8 Dropside
→
3 Series
VS
Corolla
3 Series vs Corolla
→
3 Series
VS
EX-8 Chassis Cab
3 Series vs EX-8 Chassis Cab
→
3 Series
VS
Caddy
3 Series vs Caddy
→
3 Series
VS
EX-8 Tipper
3 Series vs EX-8 Tipper
→
3 Series
VS
Hiace
3 Series vs Hiace
→
Sonet Panel Van
VS
EX-8 Dropside
Sonet Panel Van vs EX-8 Dropside
→
Sonet Panel Van
VS
Corolla
Sonet Panel Van vs Corolla
→
3 Series vs Sonet Panel Van questions
There is no universal winner. Use the comparison table to match the models and available derivatives in South Africa on price, safety equipment, space, powertrain and ownership cover. The category indicators summarise published catalogue data; they are not a road test or customer rating.
Compare the published consumption or mileage rows for the exact derivatives using the same unit and test basis. A catalogue figure is useful for like-for-like comparison, but traffic, speed, load, weather and driving style can change actual fuel use.
Compare only equipment explicitly listed for each derivative, including airbags, stability control and driver-assistance systems. Confirm the exact trim with the manufacturer, and treat any independent crash-test result separately because equipment and ratings can differ by market.
A reliable five-year total cannot be calculated from catalogue data alone. Add the exact purchase and finance cost, fuel or electricity, insurance quotes, scheduled servicing, tyres and expected resale value. Check whether the selected derivative includes a service or maintenance plan.
Use the seating, boot or load-space, ISOFIX and safety rows as a first check. Then test the exact cars with your child seats, passengers and typical luggage, because published dimensions do not show every access or comfort difference.
Compare the published power, torque and 0–100 km/h rows when they are available for both exact derivatives. Vehicle weight, gearing and power delivery also matter, so catalogue outputs alone do not establish real-world overtaking or response.