Rolls-Royce Dawn vs KIA Sonet
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.
Includes a historical vehicle
Current, upcoming and historical vehicles can be compared side by side. Historical records keep their verified specifications, while price labels show last-listed context rather than current new-car availability.
Rolls-Royce Dawn
Discontinued model
Share
Rolls-Royce Dawn
Dawn
Petrol
8-Speed Automatic
Discontinued model
No longer sold new
historical price not confirmed
Discontinued model
Verified historical specifications remain visible for owner and used-car comparisons.
⚡ 420 kW
🔧 820 Nm
⛽ 6.99 km/l
VS
＋
Add a 3rd car
Decision summary
Rolls-Royce Dawn vs KIA Sonet: the short answer
Dawn and Sonet are close on the comparable published fields, so buyer priorities should decide.
Five key differences
Exact selected derivativesSwipe sideways to compare every column
| Specification | Dawn | Sonet |
|---|---|---|
| Maximum Power | Dawn420 kW @ 5250-6000 rpm | Sonet85 kW @ 6300 rpm |
| Maximum Torque | Dawn820 Nm @ 1600-4750 rpm | Sonet143 Nm @ 4000 rpm |
| Engine Size | Dawn6592 cc | Sonet1497 cc |
| Combined Fuel Economy | Dawn6.99 km/l | Sonet16.9 km/l |
| Ground Clearance | Dawn149 mm | Sonet211 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
1.5 EX+ 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
Dawn
Strengths
- More powerful engine output
Weak Spots
- Lower fuel efficiency
- Fewer listed safety features
- Lower published practicality figures
Best suited to:
Published Performance
Sonet
Strengths
- Better fuel efficiency
- Stronger listed safety equipment
- Stronger published practicality figures
Weak Spots
- Less powerful engine setup
Best suited to:
Published Efficiency
Published Practicality
Which One's Right for You?
Dawn
- Buyers prioritising the stronger published powertrain figures
Sonet
- Buyers prioritising the lower published fuel or energy use
- Buyers prioritising the more complete listed safety equipment
- Buyers prioritising the stronger published space and capacity figures
Full Specs, Side by Side
Open a category, then swipe sideways to compare every column
Archived cars use verified historical spec records. Rows remain comparable; unavailable historical values are shown plainly rather than estimated.
| Spec | Dawn | Sonet |
|---|---|---|
| Model Introduced Year | 2016 | 2021 |
| Generation | Dawn four-seat convertible; this archive profile uses the MY17 World specification corroborated by a February 2018 South African road test. | First generation (BC3); launched globally 2020, SA 2021 |
| Facelift History | The MY17 configuration is kept separate from the 2015 launch specification, which published different length, torque, acceleration, consumption and CO2 figures. | 2023 model year update with revised front styling and expanded ADAS features |
| Facelift Launched Since | 2017 | 2023 |
| Facelift Version Ending | 2023 | Current |
| Body Style | Convertible | SUV |
| Model Year | 2017 | 2026 |
| Production Status | discontinued | active |
| Segment | Ultra-luxury convertible | SUV |
| Vehicle Type | Passenger car | SUV |
| Dealer Stock Note | Not confirmed | Flagship grade in the South Africa lineup |
| Color Note | Not confirmed | Clear White, Aurora Black Pearl, Gravity Blue, Pewter Olive, Intense Red, Steel Grey, Glacier White Pearl (two-tone options on SX) |
| Tare Mass Kg | Not confirmed | 1270 kg |
| Spec | Dawn | Sonet |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 5295 mm | 3995 mm |
| Width | 1947 mm | 1790 mm |
| Height | 1502 mm | 1635 mm |
| Wheelbase | 3112 mm | 2500 mm |
| Ground Clearance (Default) | 149 mm | 211 mm |
| Ground Clearance (With Full Seating Load) | 149 mm | 190 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 82 l | 45 l |
| Boot/Cargo Space | 321 l | 392 l |
| Kerb Weight | 2560 kg | 1270 kg |
| Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) | 3040 kg | 1710 kg |
| Payload Capacity | 480 kg | 408 kg |
| Towing Capacity | 0 kg | 1100 kg |
| Seating Capacity | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Rows | 2 rows | 2 rows |
| Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Minimum Turning Radius | 6.35 m | 10.4 m |
| Front Headroom | 1018 mm | 990 mm |
| Rear Headroom | 963 mm | 950 mm |
| Front Legroom | 1054 mm | 1030 mm |
| Rear Legroom | 937 mm | 860 mm |
| Spec | Dawn | Sonet |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 6.592-litre twin-turbo V12 | 1.5-litre Naturally Aspirated Petrol |
| Engine Code | N74B66A | G4LC |
| Fuel Type | Petrol | Petrol |
| Hybrid System | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Engine Displacement | 6592 cc | 1497 cc |
| Cylinders | 12 | 4 |
| Cylinder Layout | V | Inline |
| Valves | 48 | 16 |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 | 4 |
| Aspiration | Twin Turbocharged | Naturally Aspirated |
| Fuel System | Direct Injection | Direct Injection |
| Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 13.0:1 |
| Bore | 89 mm | 75 mm |
| Stroke | 88.3 mm | 84.5 mm |
| Maximum Power | 420 kW @ 5250-6000 rpm | 85 kW @ 6300 rpm |
| Maximum Torque | 820 Nm @ 1600-4750 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 | RWD | FWD |
| Transmission | 8-Speed Automatic | CVT |
| Top Speed | 250 km/h | 172 km/h |
| 0-100 km/h | 5.0 sec | 11.2 sec |
| Quarter Mile | 12.8 sec | Not Officially Disclosed |
| Drive Modes | Low | Not Officially Disclosed |
| Launch Control | Not Officially Disclosed | No |
| Rev Limiter | Not Officially Disclosed | Not Officially Disclosed |
| Power-to-Weight Ratio | 164.1 kW/tonne | 66.9 kW/tonne |
| Torque-to-Weight Ratio | 320.3 Nm/tonne | 112.6 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 | Dawn | Sonet |
|---|---|---|
| Gearbox | 8-speed automatic / 8HP95 | Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT) |
| Drivetrain Layout | Front-engine, rear-wheel drive | FWD |
| Transfer Case | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Paddle Shifters | No | No |
| Final Drive Ratio | 2.813 | 3.56 |
| Number of Gears | 8 | CVT |
| Transmission Type | 8-speed automatic / 8HP95 | Continuously Variable Transmission |
| Clutch Type | Torque converter | Torque Converter |
| Gear Shift Type | Steering-column selector for 8-speed automatic | Automatic |
| Drivetrain | RWD | 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 | No | No |
| Front Differential Lock | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Gearbox Type | 8-speed automatic / 8HP95 | Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT) |
| Low Range Ratio | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Low Range | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Axle Layout | Two axles | FWD |
| Transmission Speeds | 8 | CVT |
| Engine Position | Not confirmed | Front Transverse |
| Gear Shift Indicator | Not confirmed | No |
| Differential Lock | Not confirmed | No |
| LSD Available | Not confirmed | No |
| Steering Turns Lock to Lock | Not confirmed | 15.1:1 |
| Transfer Case Guard | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Rear Differential Lock | Not confirmed | Not Applicable |
| Differential Type Front | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Differential Type Rear | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Spec | Dawn | Sonet |
|---|---|---|
| Claimed Mileage | 6.99 km/l | 16.9 km/l |
| City Mileage | 4.59 km/l | 13.7 km/l |
| Highway Mileage | 10.10 km/l | 20.0 km/l |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 82 l | 45 l |
| Emission Standard | EU6 | Euro 6 |
| AdBlue Tank Capacity | Not Applicable | No |
| Auto Start Stop | No automatic engine stop/start | Yes |
| Real-world Mileage | 6.99 km/l | 16.9 km/l |
| Charging Port Type | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Charging Type | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Fuel Tank Litres | 82 | 45 |
| Combined Driving Range | 575 km | Not Applicable |
| Electric Consumption | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Range Real World Mixed | 522.93 km | Not Applicable |
| Low Fuel Warning | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Range Real World Highway | Not confirmed | Not Applicable |
| Spec | Dawn | Sonet |
|---|---|---|
| Airbags | 6 | 6 |
| ABS | Standard | Yes |
| Electronic Stability Control | ESP | Yes |
| Traction Control | Standard | Yes |
| Hill Start Assist | Hill-start assist | Yes |
| Child Safety Lock | Not Applicable | Yes |
| ISOFIX Mounts | LATCH child-seat anchor system | Yes |
| Brake Assist | Dynamic Brake Control | Yes |
| Tyre Pressure Monitor | Standard | Yes |
| Engine Immobiliser | Engine immobiliser | Yes |
| Seatbelt Warning All Seats | Driver and front-passenger seat-belt warning sensor | Yes |
| Front Parking Sensors | Front Park Distance Control | Yes |
| AEB | Available | Yes |
| BA | Dynamic Brake Control | Yes |
| Curtain Airbags | Not Applicable | Yes |
| Driver Airbag | Standard | Yes |
| EBD | Standard | Yes |
| Engine Immobiliser | Standard | Yes |
| Hill Hold | Hill-start assist | Yes |
| Passenger Airbag | Standard | Yes |
| Seatbelt Pretensioners | Front and rear | Yes |
| Seatbelt Reminder | Driver and front-passenger seat-belt warning sensor | Yes |
| Side Airbags | Front side-impact airbags | Yes |
| Stability Control | ESP | Yes |
| TCS | Standard | Yes |
| Knee Airbag | Front active knee protection | No |
| ABS EBD | Standard | Yes |
| Brake Override System | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Side Impact Beams | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Whiplash Protection | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Hill Descent Control | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Pedestrian Detection AEB | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Lane Change Warning | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Blind Spot Monitoring | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Rear Cross Traffic Alert | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Fatigue Detection | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Speed Alert System | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Safety Rating | Not confirmed | 5 |
| Central Locking | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Alarm System | Not confirmed | Yes |
| ESC With Traction Control | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Driver Front Passenger Airbags | Not confirmed | 6 |
| Driver Passenger Airbags | Not confirmed | 6 |
| Anti Theft Alarm | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Spec | Dawn | Sonet |
|---|---|---|
| Cruise Control | Automatic Cruise Control | Yes |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | Automatic distance-control cruise with stop-and-start traffic response | Yes |
| Lane Departure Warning | Optional | Yes |
| Parking Sensors | Park-distance system | Yes |
| Rear View Camera | Optional rear-view camera with top view | Yes |
| 360 Degree Camera | Optional camera system with rear, top and side views | Yes |
| Autonomous Emergency Braking | Available | Yes |
| Auto Highbeam | Glare-free high-beam technology | Yes |
| Auto Wipers | Rain-sensing variable-speed wipers | Yes |
| Rear Parking Sensors | Rear Park Distance Control | Yes |
| Reverse Camera | Optional rear-view camera with top view | Yes |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | Automatic distance-control cruise with stop-and-start traffic response | Yes |
| Park Assist | Front and rear parking sensors | Yes |
| Around View Monitor | Optional camera system with rear, top and side views | Yes |
| Forward Collision Warning | Pre-collision safety system | Yes |
| EV Mode | Not confirmed | No |
| Lane Keep Assist | Optional | Yes |
| Blind Spot Monitoring | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Rear Cross Traffic Alert | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Driver Fatigue Alert | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Traffic Sign Recognition | Not confirmed | No |
| Reversing Camera | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Auto Lights | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Eco Mode | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Sport Mode | Not confirmed | No |
| Blind Spot Warning | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Emergency Braking | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Pre-Collision System | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Rear View Camera | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Reverse Camera Type | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Surround View Camera | Optional camera system with rear, top and side views | Yes |
| Parking Distance Sensors | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Parking Sensor | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Front Camera | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Automatic High Beam | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Rain Sensor Wipers | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Spec | Dawn | Sonet |
|---|---|---|
| Seat Material | Leather | Leather |
| Heated Seats | Front; standard | Yes |
| Ventilated Seats | Optional front ventilated seats | Yes |
| Ambient Lighting | Optional – Atmospheric Interior Environment | Yes |
| Steering Wheel Material | Leather | Leather |
| 60 40 Split Seat | Not Applicable | Yes |
| Driver Seat Adjustment | Electrically adjustable with lumbar adjustment and memory | 8-Way Power |
| Passenger Seat Adjustment | Electrically adjustable with lumbar adjustment | 4-Way Manual |
| Seat Trim | Leather | Leather |
| Front Shoulder Room | Not confirmed | 1380 mm |
| Rear Shoulder Room | Not confirmed | 1330 mm |
| Steering Type | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Steering Adjustment | Not confirmed | Tilt and Telescopic |
| Rear USB Ports | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Instrument Cluster Type | Not confirmed | Digital |
| Rear AC Vents | Not confirmed | No |
| Cooled Seats | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Fabric Seats | Not confirmed | No |
| Leather Seats | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Adjustable Driver Seat | Not confirmed | 8-Way Power |
| Seat Adjustment | Not confirmed | 8-Way Power |
| Adjustable Front Seat | Not confirmed | 4-Way Manual |
| Driver Lumbar Support | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Memory Seats | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Folding Rear Seats | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Front Headrest | Not confirmed | Adjustable |
| Rear Headrest | Not confirmed | Adjustable |
| Front Armrest | Not confirmed | Centre Armrest |
| Rear Armrest | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Door Map Pockets | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Cup Holders | Not confirmed | 4 |
| Interior Colour Options | Not confirmed | Black |
| Interior Courtesy Lamps | Not confirmed | 10.25-inch touchscreen (EX+), digital instrument cluster (SX), wireless CarPlay/Android Auto (SX), Bose audio (SX), ventilated front seats (SX), ambient lighting, 6 airbags all grades |
| Boot Space Seats Down | Not confirmed | 1143 |
| Seat Belt Warning | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Leather Accented Seat Trim | Not confirmed | Leather |
| Driver Seat | Not confirmed | 8-Way Power |
| Seat Fold Type | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Armrest Front | Not confirmed | Centre Armrest |
| Armrest Rear | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Rear Seat Centre Armrest | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Interior Colours | Not confirmed | Black |
| Interior Trim Colour | Not confirmed | Black |
| Seat Adjustment Driver Backrest | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Spec | Dawn | Sonet |
|---|---|---|
| Climate Control | Individual front and rear climate controls | Yes |
| Power Windows | Standard | Yes |
| Keyless Entry | Comfort Entry keyless access | Yes |
| Push Button Start | Keyless ignition | Yes |
| Sunroof | Not Applicable | No |
| Electric Tailgate | Smart power opening and closing luggage-compartment lid | No |
| Rain Sensing Wipers | Standard | Yes |
| AC Type | Individual front and rear climate controls | Yes |
| Intercooler | Not confirmed | No |
| Rev Matching | Not confirmed | No |
| Performance Data Logger | Not confirmed | No |
| Fuel Consumption Combined | Not confirmed | 5.9 |
| Engine Start Stop | Keyless ignition | Yes |
| Engine Start Stop Button | Keyless ignition | Yes |
| Engine Start Button Illumination | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Engine Check Warning | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Drag Coefficient | Not confirmed | 0.34 |
| Roof Load | Not confirmed | 50 kg |
| Boot Space Seats Folded | Not confirmed | 1143 l |
| Stabilizer Bar | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Steering Response | Not confirmed | Normal |
| Skid Plates | Not confirmed | No |
| Side Steps | Not confirmed | No |
| Spare Wheel | No spare wheel; run-flat tyres | Temporary Spare |
| Tyre Repair Kit | Not confirmed | No |
| Seatbelt Pre Tensioner | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Hill Start Assist | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Speed Limiter | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Speed Alert System | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Impact Sensing Door Unlock | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Surround View Monitor | Optional camera system with rear, top and side views | Yes |
| Adaptive Dampers | Not confirmed | No |
| Wireless Charging | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Voice Command | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Voice Command Support | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Digital Speedometer | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Driver Display | Not confirmed | Digital Cluster |
| Heads Up Display | Not confirmed | No |
| Tachometer | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Trip Computer | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Multi Function Steering | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Steering Mounted Controls | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Air Conditioning | Individual front and rear climate controls | Yes |
| Climate Zones | Not confirmed | 2 |
| Rear Air Conditioning | Not confirmed | No |
| Glovebox Cooling | Not confirmed | No |
| Seat Type | Not confirmed | Leather Seats |
| Driver Seat Height Adjustment | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Rear Seat Split | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Headrest Adjustable | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Front Armrest | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Vanity Mirror | Not confirmed | Yes |
| 12V Accessory Socket | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Front Power Outlet | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Rear Reading Lamps | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Push Button Start | Keyless ignition | Yes |
| Remote Engine Start | Not confirmed | No |
| Remote Start | Not confirmed | No |
| Remote Central Locking | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Door Ajar Warning | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Fuel Lid Opener | Not confirmed | Remote |
| Boot Opener | Not confirmed | Remote |
| Power Mirrors | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Heated Mirrors | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Electric Folding Mirrors | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Electric Mirror Folding | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Remote Side Mirror | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Auto Dimming Irvm | Not confirmed | No |
| Auto Dimming Mirror | Not confirmed | No |
| Rear Window Defroster | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Rear Defogger | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Follow Me Home Headlamps | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Tail Lamps | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Automatic Headlamps | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Headlamp Height Adjust | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Headlamp Washer | Not confirmed | No |
| Panoramic Roof | Not Applicable | No |
| Roof Antenna | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Rear Wing | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Aero Kit | Not confirmed | No |
| Chrome Grille | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Chrome Exterior Highlights | Not confirmed | No |
| Ride Mode Selection | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Powered Tailgate | Not confirmed | No |
| Engine Warranty | Not confirmed | 7 Years / 150,000 km |
| Service Reminder | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Trim Level | Not confirmed | flagship |
| Variant Role | Not confirmed | Flagship / premium derivative |
| Accelerator 0 100 | Not confirmed | 11.2 sec |
| Common Rail Injection | Not confirmed | Gasoline Direct Injection |
| Diff Lock | Not confirmed | No |
| Difflock | Not confirmed | No |
| Vdc | Not confirmed | Yes |
| TPMS | Standard | Yes |
| Sonar | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Automatic High Beam | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Steering Column Adjustment | Not confirmed | Tilt and Telescopic |
| Tilt Steering | Not confirmed | Tilt and Telescopic |
| Telescopic Steering | Not confirmed | Tilt and Telescopic |
| Bottle Holders | Not confirmed | 4 |
| Glove Box | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Manual Aircon | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Intelligent Keyless Entry | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Passive Entry Start | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Wireless Charger | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Lift Gate | Not confirmed | No |
| Electric Fold Indicator Mirrors | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Power Socket 12v | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Sound System | 18 | 8 |
| Roof Rack Compatibility | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Mirror | Not confirmed | Electric |
| Rim Size | Front 8.5 x 20; rear 9.5 x 20 | 215/55 R17 |
| Stabilizer Bar Front | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Stabilizer Bar Rear | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Sub Frame | Not confirmed | Unibody |
| Vehicle To Grid | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Vehicle To Load | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| One Pedal Driving | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Regenerative Braking Levels | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Rear Electric Motor | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Battery Preconditioning | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Load Bed Cover | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Tailgate Lock | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Sports Bar | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Canopy Fitment | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Bed Extender | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Source Model Column | Not confirmed | sonet |
| Intelligent Battery System | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Front Diff Lock | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Rear Diff Lock | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Loadbox Depth Mm | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Load Bed Light | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Load Bed Steps | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Loadbox Rope Hooks | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Loadbox Tiedown Brackets | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Tailgate Damper | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Tow Bar Type | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Sport Plus Mode | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Unlocking | Comfort Entry keyless access | Yes |
| Walk Away Lock | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Walk Away Auto Door Lock | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Rear LED Combination Taillights | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Front Wiper | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Front Wipers Type | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Rearview Mirror Inside | Not confirmed | No |
| Vanity Mirror Illuminated | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Reading Lights Rear | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Centre Console | Not confirmed | Centre Armrest |
| Side Impact Bars | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Boot Space Seats Folded | Not confirmed | 1143 l |
| Load Bed Length | Not confirmed | Not Applicable |
| Load Bed Width | Not confirmed | Not Applicable |
| Loadbox Length Mm | Not confirmed | Not Applicable |
| Loadbox Width Mm | Not confirmed | Not Applicable |
| Spec | Dawn | Sonet |
|---|---|---|
| Infotainment System | Multimedia interface and navigation with Spirit of Ecstasy Rotary Controller | 10.25-inch Touchscreen |
| Bluetooth Connectivity | Standard | Yes |
| Number of Speakers | 18 | 8 |
| Digital Instrument Cluster | Analogue instruments with Power Reserve gauge | Yes |
| USB Ports | Standard | 4 |
| Infotainment Screen | 10.25-inch high-definition display | 10.25 |
| Touchscreen | 10.25-inch high-definition display | 10.25 |
| Infotainment Display | Not confirmed | 10.25 |
| Infotainment Screen Size | 10.25-inch high-definition display | 10.25 |
| Navigation System | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Apple CarPlay | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Wireless Apple CarPlay | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Android Auto | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Rear Usb | Not confirmed | Yes |
| AUX Input | Not confirmed | No |
| Wi-Fi Hotspot | Not confirmed | No |
| Premium Audio | Not confirmed | Yes |
| FM Radio | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Radio | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Voice Recognition | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Head Up Display | Not confirmed | No |
| Audio Controls On Steering | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Steering Wheel Audio Controls | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Multi Information Display | Not confirmed | Digital |
| Display Audio | Not confirmed | 10.25-inch Touchscreen |
| Smartphone Connectivity | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Connected Services | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Audio Speakers | 18 | 8 |
| Front Rear USB Charge Ports | Not confirmed | 4 |
| Voice Control | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Audio | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Audio System | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Wireless Android Auto | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Spec | Dawn | Sonet |
|---|---|---|
| LED Headlamps | Standard | Yes |
| Daytime Running Lamps | Standard | Yes |
| Roof Rails | Not Applicable | Yes |
| Exterior Colour Options | Bespoke exterior colour commissioning | Multiple |
| Headlights | Standard | Yes |
| Panoramic Sunroof | Not Applicable | No |
| Front Overhang | Not confirmed | 800 mm |
| Rear Overhang | Not confirmed | 695 mm |
| Body Type | Not confirmed | Sub-Compact SUV |
| Alloy Wheel Design | Not confirmed | Alloy Alloy |
| Wing Mirror Type | Not confirmed | Electric |
| Rear Wiper | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Led Headlights | Standard | Yes |
| DRL | Standard | Yes |
| Led Taillights | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Fog Lights | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Fog Lamps | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Front Fog Lights | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Rear Fog Lights | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Roof Type | Not confirmed | Standard |
| Rear Spoiler | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Body Cladding | Not confirmed | No |
| Chrome Exterior Finish | Not confirmed | No |
| Door Handle Finish | Not confirmed | Body Colour |
| Exterior Colour Options | Not confirmed | 7 |
| Exterior Mirror Electric | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Auto Headlights | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Automatic Headlamps | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Headlamps | Standard | Yes |
| Headlight Type | Standard | Yes |
| Exterior Mirror Folding | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Headlamp Levelling | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Daytime Running Lights | Standard | Yes |
| Front Fog Lamps | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Rear Spoiler | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Exterior Door Handle Colour | Not confirmed | Body Colour |
| Load Bed Liner | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Active Exhaust | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Electric Blind Sunroof | Not confirmed | Standard |
| Spec | Dawn | Sonet |
|---|---|---|
| Wading Depth | Not Applicable | Not Available |
| Terrain Modes | Not Applicable | Not Available |
| 4WD System Type | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Locking Differential | Not confirmed | No |
| Approach Angle | Not confirmed | 21 deg |
| Departure Angle | Not confirmed | 35 deg |
| Ramp Breakover Angle | Not confirmed | 16 deg |
| Ramp-over Angle | Not confirmed | 18 deg |
| Recovery Hooks | Not confirmed | No |
| Underbody Protection | Not confirmed | No |
| Hill Descent Control | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Ground Clearance Min | Not confirmed | 211 mm |
| Ground Clearance Max | Not confirmed | 211 mm |
| Off Road Descent Control | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Terrain Response System | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Crawl Control | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Underbody Camera | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Energy Recovery Display | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Terrain Mode Mud | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Terrain Mode Normal | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Terrain Mode Rock | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Terrain Mode Sand | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Terrain Mode Snow | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Off Road Traction Assist | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Skid Plates Transfer Case | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Skid Plates Fuel Tank | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Front Skid Plate Guard | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Rear Skid Plate Guard | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Approach Angle Deg | Not confirmed | 21 deg |
| Departure Angle Deg | Not confirmed | 35 deg |
| Breakover Angle | Not confirmed | 16 deg |
| Spec | Dawn | Sonet |
|---|---|---|
| Tyre Size | Front 255/45 R20 101Y; rear 285/40 R20 104Y | 215/55 R17 |
| Front Brake Type | Power-assisted ventilated disc | Ventilated Disc |
| Rear Brake Type | Power-assisted ventilated disc | Drum |
| Spare Wheel Type | No spare wheel; run-flat tyres | Temporary Spare |
| Wheel Rim Size | Front 8.5 x 20; rear 9.5 x 20 | 215/55 R17 |
| Handbrake Type | Electromechanical parking brake acting on the rear wheels | Electronic |
| Brake Type Front | Not confirmed | Ventilated Disc |
| Front Brake Disc Diameter | Not confirmed | 280 mm |
| Brake Type Rear | Not confirmed | Drum |
| Rear Brake Drum Diameter | Not confirmed | 236 mm |
| Parking Brake Type | Not confirmed | Electronic |
| Front Tyre Width | Not confirmed | 215 mm |
| Rear Tyre Width | Not confirmed | 215 mm |
| Wheel Diameter | Front 8.5 x 20; rear 9.5 x 20 | 215/55 R17 |
| Wheel Type | Not confirmed | Alloy Alloy |
| Tyre Type | Not confirmed | Radial |
| Tyre Load Index | Not confirmed | 102 |
| Tyre Speed Rating | Not confirmed | H |
| Spare Tyre | No spare wheel; run-flat tyres | Temporary Spare |
| Tyre Pressure Monitoring | Standard | Yes |
| Tyre Pressure Display | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Hydraulic Brake Assist | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Autonomous Emergency Brake | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Steering Wheel Audio Controls | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Wheel Material | Not confirmed | Alloy Alloy |
| Wheels | Not confirmed | Alloy Alloy |
| Spare Wheel Size Type | Not confirmed | Temporary Spare |
| Electric Park Brake | Not confirmed | Electronic |
| Wheel Size Type | Not confirmed | 215/55 R17 |
| Fifth Wheel Prep | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Steering Wheel Cruise Controls | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Steering Wheel Phone Controls | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Leather Steering Wheel | Not confirmed | Leather |
| Steering Wheel Trim | Not confirmed | Leather |
| Brakes | Not confirmed | Ventilated Disc |
| Electronic Brakeforce Distribution | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Cornering Brake Control | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Auto Brake Hold | Not confirmed | Electronic |
| Spec | Dawn | Sonet |
|---|---|---|
| Front Suspension | Double-wishbone pneumatic suspension with newly designed self-levelling air springs, active roll control and continuous electronic damping | MacPherson Strut |
| Rear Suspension | Multi-link pneumatic suspension with newly designed self-levelling air springs, active roll control and continuous electronic damping | Coupled Torsion Beam |
| Front Track Width | Not confirmed | 1544 mm |
| Rear Track Width | Not confirmed | 1536 mm |
| Chassis Type | Not confirmed | Unibody |
| Front Spring Type | Not confirmed | Coil Spring |
| Rear Spring Type | Not confirmed | Coil Spring |
| Shock Absorber Type | Not confirmed | Telescopic |
| Front Anti-Roll Bar | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Rear Anti-Roll Bar | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Power Steering | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Steering Column | Not confirmed | Adjustable |
| Front Suspension Type | Double-wishbone pneumatic suspension with newly designed self-levelling air springs, active roll control and continuous electronic damping | MacPherson Strut |
| Suspension | Not confirmed | MacPherson Strut |
| Rear Suspension Type | Multi-link pneumatic suspension with newly designed self-levelling air springs, active roll control and continuous electronic damping | Coupled Torsion Beam |
| Rear Axle Type | Not confirmed | Coupled Torsion Beam |
| Shock Absorbers | Not confirmed | Telescopic |
| Chassis Material | Not confirmed | Unibody |
| MagneRide Damping | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Spec | Dawn | Sonet |
|---|---|---|
| CO2 Emissions | 326 g/km | 138 g/km |
| Fuel Octane Requirement | Designed for 95 RON; minimum 91 RON | 93 Octane |
| Variable Valve Timing | Not confirmed | CVVT |
| Particulate Filter | Not confirmed | No |
| Fuel Evaporation Control | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Idle CO2 Output | Not confirmed | 145 |
| Green NCAP Rating | Not confirmed | 4 |
| Start Stop System | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Euro Emission Standard | Not confirmed | Euro 6 |
| Noise Level | Not confirmed | 67 dB |
| CO2 Emissions G Km | Not confirmed | 138 |
| Hybrid System Type | Not confirmed | Not Available |
| Spec | Dawn | Sonet |
|---|---|---|
| Service Plan | 4 years, unlimited kilometres | 3 Years / 45,000 km |
| Alternator | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Engine Oil Capacity | Not confirmed | 4.5 l |
| Engine Oil Change Interval | Not confirmed | 15000 |
| Service Plan Duration | 4 years, unlimited kilometres | 3 Years / 45,000 km |
| Service Plan Distance | 4 years, unlimited kilometres | 3 Years / 45,000 km |
| Maintenance Plan | Not confirmed | 3 Years / 45,000 km |
| Service Interval | Not confirmed | 15000 |
| First Service At | Not confirmed | 15000 |
| Approx Service Cost | Not confirmed | R3,000 per service |
| Anti-Rust Treatment | Not confirmed | Yes |
| Service Intervals | Not confirmed | 15000 |
| Battery Warranty | Not confirmed | 7 Years / 150,000 km |
| Spec | Dawn | Sonet |
|---|---|---|
| Ownership Role | Historical South African Dawn derivative launched locally in March 2016 and documented locally in 2018; the March 2022 global Dawn order-book closure is an outer bound, not proof of the exact South African withdrawal year, while production ended in 2023. | Flagship |
| Pricing Role | Historical price on application | Current listed price |
| Price Zar | Not confirmed | 469995 ZAR |
| Starting Price | Not confirmed | 469995 |
| Starting Price Zar | Not confirmed | 469995 |
| Spec | Dawn | Sonet |
|---|---|---|
| Warranty | 4 years, unlimited kilometres | 7 Years / 150,000 km |
| Basic Warranty | 4 years, unlimited kilometres | 7 Years / 150,000 km |
| Warranty Years | 4 years, unlimited kilometres | 7 Years / 150,000 km |
| Warranty Kilometers | 4 years, unlimited kilometres | 7 Years / 150,000 km |
| Anti-Corrosion Warranty | Not confirmed | 5 Years |
| Roadside Assistance | Not confirmed | 5 Years |
| Roadside Assistance | Not confirmed | 5 Years |
| Warranty Roadside Assistance | Not confirmed | 5 Years |
| Spec | Dawn | Sonet |
|---|---|---|
| Real-world City Mileage Min | Not confirmed | 11.6 l/100km |
| Real-world City Mileage Max | Not confirmed | 15.1 l/100km |
| Real-world Highway Mileage Min | Not confirmed | 18.0 l/100km |
| Real-world Highway Mileage Max | Not confirmed | 21.0 l/100km |
In depth: how these cars differ
This Dawn and Sonet 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: Dawn 97 vs Sonet 36.
Efficiency index: Dawn 31 vs Sonet 65.
Safety-equipment index: Dawn 90 vs Sonet 93.
Practicality index: Dawn 52 vs Sonet 59.
Ownership-cover index: Dawn not separately scored vs Sonet 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
Dawn and Sonet image comparison
Open an image for its full canonical file or visit the model page for the complete vehicle record.
Rolls-Royce Dawn
View 8 more Dawn images
KIA Sonet
View 8 more Sonet 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
Dawn leads by 6 points
Dawn and Sonet are close on the comparable published fields, so buyer priorities should decide.
Evidence leader
70
/100
Lead
6
points
Data
76%
source coverage
70
#1
Evidence leader
Dawn
76% source coverage
2 strong categories
Best at
Performance 97
Check
Efficiency 31
Performance
97
Efficiency
31
Safety
90
Practicality
52
Leads by 6 points
64
#2
Sonet
99% source coverage
2 strong categories
Best at
Safety 93
Check
Performance 36
Performance
36
Efficiency
65
Safety
93
Practicality
59
Ownership
71
Performance 24%
Safety 22%
Practicality 22%
Efficiency 17%
Ownership 15%
Category leaders
What moves the verdict
Performance
Dawn +61
Efficiency
Sonet +34
Safety
Sonet +3
Practicality
Sonet +7
Close catalogue match. Buyer priorities should decide the outcome.
Why this score View full breakdown
Evidence-index leader
Dawn
Performance
97/100
Efficiency
31/100
Safety
90/100
Practicality
52/100
Sonet
Performance
36/100
Efficiency
65/100
Safety
93/100
Practicality
59/100
Ownership
71/100
What the evidence means
Evidence index
Rolls-Royce Dawn
leads the specification evidence index with 70 pts
vs 64 pts for Sonet
In Hagalu's specification evidence index, Dawn leads. However, Sonet 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.
DawnDiscontinued
VS
C5
Dawn vs C5
→
DawnDiscontinued
VS
J5
Dawn vs J5
→
DawnDiscontinued
VS
Urban Cruiser
Dawn vs Urban Cruiser
→
DawnDiscontinued
VS
Curvv
Dawn vs Curvv
→
DawnDiscontinued
VS
Across
Dawn vs Across
→
DawnDiscontinued
VS
Starlet Cross
Dawn vs Starlet Cross
→
Sonet
VS
C5
Sonet vs C5
→
Sonet
VS
J5
Sonet vs J5
→
Dawn vs Sonet 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.