Lexus LX 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.
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Lexus LX
LX 500d F SPORT
Diesel
10-Speed Automatic
Current
ZAR 2,687,500
ex-showroom
⚡ 225 kW
🔧 700 Nm
⛽ 11.9 km/l
VS
＋
Add a 3rd car
Decision summary
Lexus LX vs KIA Sonet: the short answer
LX holds a noticeable catalogue-index lead over Sonet.
Sonet starts ZAR 2,357,505 cheaper
LX from ZAR 2,687,500 · Sonet from ZAR 329,995
Five key differences
Exact selected derivativesSwipe sideways to compare every column
| Specification | LX | Sonet |
|---|---|---|
| Maximum Power | LX225 kW @ 4000 rpm | Sonet85 kW @ 6300 rpm |
| Maximum Torque | LX700 Nm | Sonet143 Nm @ 4000 rpm |
| Engine Size | LX3300 cc | Sonet1497 cc |
| Combined Fuel Economy | LX11.9 km/l | Sonet16.9 km/l |
| Ground Clearance | LX205 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
LX
Strengths
- More powerful engine output
- Stronger published practicality figures
Weak Spots
- Lower fuel efficiency
Best suited to:
Published Performance
Published Practicality
Sonet
Strengths
- Better fuel efficiency
Weak Spots
- Less powerful engine setup
- Lower published practicality figures
Best suited to:
Published Efficiency
Which One's Right for You?
LX
- Buyers prioritising the stronger published powertrain figures
- Buyers prioritising the stronger published space and capacity figures
Sonet
- 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 | LX | Sonet |
|---|---|---|
| Model Introduced Year | 2022 | 2021 |
| Generation | Fourth-generation Lexus LX flagship body-on-frame SUV | First generation (BC3); launched globally 2020, SA 2021 |
| Facelift History | Current range adds LX 700h hybrid and Overtrail grades while retaining LX 500d diesel choices | 2023 model year update with revised front styling and expanded ADAS features |
| Facelift Launched Since | Current range adds LX 700h hybrid and Overtrail grades while retaining LX 500d diesel choices | 2023 |
| Facelift Version Ending | Current South African specification checked 2026-07-17 | Current |
| Body Style | SUV | SUV |
| Model Year | 2026 | 2026 |
| Production Status | published | active |
| Segment | Luxury SUV | SUV |
| Tare Mass Kg | 2670 kg | 1270 kg |
| Vehicle Type | SUV | SUV |
| Dealer Stock Note | - | Flagship grade in the South Africa lineup |
| Color Note | - | Clear White, Aurora Black Pearl, Gravity Blue, Pewter Olive, Intense Red, Steel Grey, Glacier White Pearl (two-tone options on SX) |
| Spec | LX | Sonet |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 5090 mm | 3995 mm |
| Width | 1990 mm | 1790 mm |
| Height | 1895 mm | 1635 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2850 mm | 2500 mm |
| Ground Clearance (Default) | 205 mm | 211 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 110 l | 45 l |
| Boot/Cargo Space | 1109 l | 392 l |
| Kerb Weight | 2670 kg | 1270 kg |
| Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) | 3280 kg | 1710 kg |
| Payload Capacity | 610 kg | 408 kg |
| Towing Capacity | 3500 kg | 1100 kg |
| Seating Capacity | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Minimum Turning Radius | 6 m | 10.4 m |
| Front Headroom | - | 990 mm |
| Rear Headroom | - | 950 mm |
| Front Legroom | - | 1030 mm |
| Rear Legroom | - | 860 mm |
| Ground Clearance (With Full Seating Load) | - | 190 mm |
| Number of Rows | - | 2 rows |
| Spec | LX | Sonet |
|---|---|---|
| Front Track Width | 1675 mm | 1544 mm |
| Rear Track Width | 1675 mm | 1536 mm |
| Front Suspension | Double Wishbone with Active Height Control - | MacPherson Strut |
| Rear Suspension | Multilink with Active Height Control - | Coupled Torsion Beam |
| 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 | Double Wishbone with Active Height Control - | MacPherson Strut |
| Suspension | - | MacPherson Strut |
| Rear Suspension Type | Multilink with Active Height Control - | Coupled Torsion Beam |
| Rear Axle Type | - | Coupled Torsion Beam |
| Shock Absorbers | - | Telescopic |
| Chassis Material | - | Unibody |
| MagneRide Damping | - | Not Available |
| Spec | LX | Sonet |
|---|---|---|
| Load Bed Length | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Load Bed Width | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Climate Control | Auto 4-Zone,Air purifier | Yes |
| Power Windows | All/ All One Touch | Yes |
| Keyless Entry | Standard Smart Entry + Panic | Yes |
| Push Button Start | Push Start + fingerprint | Yes |
| Wireless Charging | Standard Front x1 | Yes |
| Sunroof | Moonroof | No |
| Electric Tailgate | Standard Power and Handsfree | No |
| Rain Sensing Wipers | Standard | Yes |
| AC Type | Auto 4-Zone,Air purifier | Yes |
| Heads Up Display | Standard | No |
| Air Conditioning | Auto 4-Zone,Air purifier | Yes |
| Loadbox Length Mm | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Loadbox Width Mm | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Intercooler | - | No |
| Rev Matching | - | No |
| Performance Data Logger | - | No |
| Fuel Consumption Combined | - | 5.9 |
| Engine Start Stop | Push Start + fingerprint | Yes |
| Engine Start Stop Button | Push Start + fingerprint | Yes |
| Engine Start Button Illumination | - | Yes |
| 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 | Full 265-50R22 AluminiumFSPORT | 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 | EMV// Multi Terrain Monitor,Panoramic View Monitor | Yes |
| Adaptive Dampers | - | No |
| Voice Command | - | Yes |
| Voice Command Support | - | Yes |
| Digital Speedometer | - | Yes |
| Driver Display | - | Digital Cluster |
| Tachometer | - | Yes |
| Trip Computer | - | Yes |
| Multi Function Steering | - | Yes |
| Steering Mounted Controls | - | Yes |
| Climate Zones | - | 2 |
| Rear Air Conditioning | - | No |
| Glovebox Cooling | - | No |
| Seat Type | - | Leather Seats |
| Driver Seat Height Adjustment | - | Yes |
| 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 | Push Start + fingerprint | Yes |
| 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 | - | Yes |
| Electric Folding Mirrors | - | Yes |
| Electric Mirror Folding | - | Yes |
| 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 | - | Yes |
| Headlamp Height Adjust | - | Yes |
| Headlamp Washer | - | No |
| Panoramic Roof | Moonroof | No |
| Roof Antenna | - | Yes |
| Rear Wing | - | Yes |
| Aero Kit | - | No |
| Chrome Grille | - | Yes |
| Chrome Exterior Highlights | - | No |
| Ride Mode Selection | - | Yes |
| Powered Tailgate | - | No |
| Engine Warranty | - | 7 Years / 150,000 km |
| Service Reminder | - | Yes |
| Trim Level | - | flagship |
| Variant Role | - | Flagship / premium 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 | - | Yes |
| Steering Column Adjustment | - | Tilt and Telescopic |
| Tilt Steering | - | Tilt and Telescopic |
| Telescopic Steering | - | Tilt and Telescopic |
| Bottle Holders | - | 4 |
| Glove Box | - | Yes |
| Manual Aircon | - | Yes |
| Intelligent Keyless Entry | - | Yes |
| Passive Entry Start | - | Yes |
| Wireless Charger | Standard Front x1 | Yes |
| Lift Gate | - | No |
| Electric Fold Indicator Mirrors | - | Yes |
| Power Socket 12v | - | Yes |
| Sound System | Standard 25 | 8 |
| Roof Rack Compatibility | - | Yes |
| Mirror | - | Electric |
| Rim Size | 22 | 215/55 R17 |
| 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 |
| Load Bed Cover | - | Not Available |
| Tailgate Lock | - | Not Available |
| Sports Bar | - | Not Available |
| Canopy Fitment | - | Not Available |
| Bed Extender | - | Not Available |
| Source Model Column | - | sonet |
| Intelligent Battery System | - | Not Available |
| Front Diff Lock | - | Not Available |
| Rear Diff Lock | - | Not Available |
| Loadbox Depth Mm | - | Not Available |
| Load Bed Light | - | Not Available |
| Load Bed Steps | - | Not Available |
| Loadbox Rope Hooks | - | Not Available |
| Loadbox Tiedown Brackets | - | Not Available |
| Tailgate Damper | - | Not Available |
| Tow Bar Type | - | Not Available |
| Sport Plus Mode | - | Not Available |
| Unlocking | Standard Smart Entry + Panic | Yes |
| Walk Away Lock | - | Yes |
| Walk Away Auto Door Lock | - | Yes |
| 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 |
| Spec | LX | Sonet |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 3.3-litre Turbocharged Diesel | 1.5-litre Naturally Aspirated Petrol |
| Engine Code | Not Officially Disclosed | G4LC |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Petrol |
| Hybrid System | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Engine Displacement | 3300 cc | 1497 cc |
| Cylinders | 6 | 4 |
| Cylinder Layout | Not Officially Disclosed | Inline |
| Valves | Not Officially Disclosed | 16 |
| Valves per Cylinder | Not Officially Disclosed | 4 |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | Naturally Aspirated |
| Fuel System | Not Officially Disclosed | Direct Injection |
| Compression Ratio | Not Officially Disclosed | 13.0:1 |
| Bore | Not Officially Disclosed | 75 mm |
| Stroke | Not Officially Disclosed | 84.5 mm |
| Maximum Power | 225 kW @ 4000 rpm | 85 kW @ 6300 rpm |
| Maximum Torque | 700 Nm | 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 | 10-Speed Automatic | CVT |
| Top Speed | 210 km/h | 172 km/h |
| 0-100 km/h | Not Officially Disclosed | 11.2 sec |
| Quarter Mile | Not Officially Disclosed | Not Officially Disclosed |
| Drive Modes | Standard Eco, Normal, Sport, Sport S+, Comfort, Custom | Not Officially Disclosed |
| Launch Control | Not Officially Disclosed | No |
| Rev Limiter | Not Officially Disclosed | Not Officially Disclosed |
| Power-to-Weight Ratio | 84.3 kW/tonne | 66.9 kW/tonne |
| Torque-to-Weight Ratio | 262.2 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 | LX | Sonet |
|---|---|---|
| Gearbox | Automatic 10-speed | Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT) |
| Drivetrain Layout | AWD | FWD |
| Transfer Case | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Differential Lock | Centre and Rear Torsen LSD | No |
| Paddle Shifters | Standard | No |
| Number of Gears | 10 | CVT |
| Transmission Type | Automatic 10-speed | Continuously Variable Transmission |
| Gear Shift Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | FWD |
| 4WD Engagement | Permanent all-wheel drive | 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 | Standard | No |
| Front Differential Lock | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Gearbox Type | Automatic 10-speed | Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT) |
| Low Range Ratio | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Low Range | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Axle Layout | AWD | FWD |
| Rear Differential Lock | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Transmission Speeds | 10 | CVT |
| Engine Position | - | Front Transverse |
| Gear Shift Indicator | - | No |
| Clutch Type | - | Torque Converter |
| Final Drive Ratio | - | 3.56 |
| LSD Available | - | No |
| Steering Turns Lock to Lock | - | 15.1:1 |
| Transfer Case Guard | - | Not Available |
| Differential Type Front | - | Not Available |
| Differential Type Rear | - | Not Available |
| Spec | LX | Sonet |
|---|---|---|
| Claimed Mileage | 11.9 km/l | 16.9 km/l |
| City Mileage | 9.7 km/l | 13.7 km/l |
| Highway Mileage | 13.9 km/l | 20.0 km/l |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 110 l | 45 l |
| Auto Start Stop | Standard | Yes |
| Charging Port Type | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Charging Type | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Fuel Tank Litres | 110 | 45 |
| Combined Driving Range | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Electric Consumption | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Range Real World Highway | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Range Real World Mixed | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| AdBlue Tank Capacity | - | No |
| Real-world Mileage | 11.9 km/l | 16.9 km/l |
| Emission Standard | - | Euro 6 |
| Low Fuel Warning | - | Yes |
| Spec | LX | Sonet |
|---|---|---|
| Airbags | Side,Knee,Curtain,Driver,Passenger | 6 |
| ABS | Standard | Yes |
| Electronic Stability Control | Standard | Yes |
| Traction Control | Standard,, Active Traction Control (ATRC) | Yes |
| Hill Descent Control | Standard | Not Available |
| Hill Start Assist | Standard | Yes |
| Child Safety Lock | Standard Rear door | Yes |
| ISOFIX Mounts | Standard 2 | Yes |
| Brake Assist | Standard | Yes |
| Tyre Pressure Monitor | Standard | Yes |
| Engine Immobiliser | Siren/ Alarm,Immobiliser,Intrusion Sensor,Fingerprint,Ultra-Wide Band | Yes |
| Alarm System | Siren/ Alarm,Immobiliser,Intrusion Sensor,Fingerprint,Ultra-Wide Band | Yes |
| Seatbelt Warning All Seats | Front + Rear | Yes |
| Front Parking Sensors | Standard Front + Rear,Intelligent Clearance Sonar,Rear Cross Traffic Alert + Braking | Yes |
| AEB | Standard | Yes |
| BA | Standard | Yes |
| Curtain Airbags | Standard | Yes |
| Driver Airbag | Standard | Yes |
| EBD | Standard | Yes |
| Engine Immobiliser | Siren/ Alarm,Immobiliser,Intrusion Sensor,Fingerprint,Ultra-Wide Band | Yes |
| Hill Hold | Standard | Yes |
| Passenger Airbag | Standard | Yes |
| Seatbelt Pretensioners | ELR,Pretensioner,Force Limiter,Tension Reducer - | Yes |
| Seatbelt Reminder | Front + Rear | Yes |
| Side Airbags | Standard | Yes |
| Stability Control | Standard | Yes |
| TCS | Standard,, Active Traction Control (ATRC) | Yes |
| Knee Airbag | Standard | No |
| ABS EBD | Standard | Yes |
| Anti Theft Alarm | Siren/ Alarm,Immobiliser,Intrusion Sensor,Fingerprint,Ultra-Wide Band | Yes |
| Brake Override System | - | Yes |
| Side Impact Beams | - | Yes |
| Whiplash Protection | - | Yes |
| Pedestrian Detection AEB | - | Yes |
| Lane Change Warning | - | Yes |
| Blind Spot Monitoring | - | Yes |
| Rear Cross Traffic Alert | - | Yes |
| Fatigue Detection | - | Yes |
| Speed Alert System | - | Yes |
| Safety Rating | - | 5 |
| Central Locking | - | Yes |
| ESC With Traction Control | - | Yes |
| Driver Front Passenger Airbags | - | 6 |
| Driver Passenger Airbags | - | 6 |
| Spec | LX | Sonet |
|---|---|---|
| Cruise Control | Standard Adaptive,All Speed | Yes |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | Standard Adaptive,All Speed | Yes |
| Lane Keep Assist | Standard Steering Vibration,Lane Trace Assist | Yes |
| Lane Departure Warning | Standard Steering Vibration,Lane Trace Assist | Yes |
| Blind Spot Monitoring | Standard Safe Exit Assist | Yes |
| Parking Sensors | Standard Front + Rear,Intelligent Clearance Sonar,Rear Cross Traffic Alert + Braking | Yes |
| Rear View Camera | EMV// Multi Terrain Monitor,Panoramic View Monitor | Yes |
| 360 Degree Camera | EMV// Multi Terrain Monitor,Panoramic View Monitor | Yes |
| Autonomous Emergency Braking | Standard | Yes |
| Traffic Sign Recognition | Standard | No |
| Auto Highbeam | Standard | Yes |
| Auto Wipers | Intermittent,Auto,Rainsensing | Yes |
| Rear Parking Sensors | Standard Front + Rear,Intelligent Clearance Sonar,Rear Cross Traffic Alert + Braking | Yes |
| Reverse Camera | EMV// Multi Terrain Monitor,Panoramic View Monitor | Yes |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | Standard Adaptive,All Speed | Yes |
| Around View Monitor | EMV// Multi Terrain Monitor,Panoramic View Monitor | Yes |
| Blind Spot Warning | Standard Safe Exit Assist | Yes |
| Forward Collision Warning | Standard | Yes |
| EV Mode | - | No |
| Rear Cross Traffic Alert | - | Yes |
| Driver Fatigue Alert | - | Yes |
| Reversing Camera | - | Yes |
| Park Assist | - | Yes |
| Auto Lights | - | Yes |
| Eco Mode | - | Yes |
| Sport Mode | - | No |
| Emergency Braking | - | Yes |
| Pre-Collision System | - | Yes |
| Rear View Camera | - | Yes |
| Reverse Camera Type | - | Yes |
| Surround View Camera | EMV// Multi Terrain Monitor,Panoramic View Monitor | Yes |
| Parking Distance Sensors | - | Yes |
| Parking Sensor | - | Yes |
| Front Camera | - | Yes |
| Automatic High Beam | - | Yes |
| Rain Sensor Wipers | - | Yes |
| Spec | LX | Sonet |
|---|---|---|
| Seat Material | Semi-Aniline Leather | Leather |
| Seat Adjustment | Driver + Passenger Power | 8-Way Power |
| Heated Seats | Standard Driver and Passenger only,Rear Row 1 | Yes |
| Ventilated Seats | Standard Front + Rear Row 1 | Yes |
| Ambient Lighting | Standard | Yes |
| Folding Rear Seats | 40:20:40 - | Yes |
| Rear Armrest | Standard | Yes |
| Cup Holders | Standard 8 | 4 |
| Steering Wheel Material | 4 Spoke/ Leather + Heated | Leather |
| Instrument Cluster Type | Standard TFT,Full Digital,12.3-inch | Digital |
| Driver Lumbar Support | Driver 4-way,Power/ Passenger 4-way | Yes |
| 60 40 Split Seat | 40:20:40 - | Yes |
| Driver Seat Adjustment | Driver + Passenger Power | 8-Way Power |
| Passenger Seat Adjustment | Driver + Passenger Power | 4-Way Manual |
| Seat Trim | Semi-Aniline Leather | Leather |
| Front Shoulder Room | - | 1380 mm |
| Rear Shoulder Room | - | 1330 mm |
| Steering Type | - | Yes |
| Steering Adjustment | - | Tilt and Telescopic |
| Rear USB Ports | - | Yes |
| Rear AC Vents | - | No |
| Cooled Seats | - | Yes |
| Fabric Seats | - | No |
| Leather Seats | - | Yes |
| Adjustable Driver Seat | - | 8-Way Power |
| Adjustable Front Seat | - | 4-Way Manual |
| Memory Seats | - | Yes |
| Front Headrest | - | Adjustable |
| Rear Headrest | - | Adjustable |
| Front Armrest | - | Centre Armrest |
| Door Map Pockets | - | Yes |
| Interior Colour Options | - | Black |
| Interior Courtesy Lamps | - | 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 | - | 1143 |
| Seat Belt Warning | - | Yes |
| Leather Accented Seat Trim | - | Leather |
| Driver Seat | - | 8-Way Power |
| 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 | - | Yes |
| Spec | LX | Sonet |
|---|---|---|
| Infotainment System | Mark Levinson/ EMV,DAB | 10.25-inch Touchscreen |
| Bluetooth Connectivity | Standard | Yes |
| Number of Speakers | Standard 25 | 8 |
| Navigation System | Standard/ Touch Screen,EMV | Yes |
| Digital Instrument Cluster | Standard TFT,Full Digital,12.3-inch | Yes |
| USB Ports | Standard 3PCs | 4 |
| Infotainment Screen Size | Mark Levinson/ EMV,DAB | 10.25 |
| Audio Speakers | Standard 25 | 8 |
| Audio System | Mark Levinson/ EMV,DAB | Yes |
| Front Rear USB Charge Ports | Standard 3PCs | 4 |
| Infotainment Screen | Mark Levinson/ EMV,DAB | 10.25 |
| Connected Services | Standard | Yes |
| Touchscreen | Mark Levinson/ EMV,DAB | 10.25 |
| Infotainment Display | - | 10.25 |
| Apple CarPlay | - | Yes |
| Wireless Apple CarPlay | - | Yes |
| Android Auto | - | Yes |
| Rear Usb | - | Yes |
| AUX Input | - | No |
| Wi-Fi Hotspot | - | No |
| Premium Audio | - | Yes |
| 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 | - | 10.25-inch Touchscreen |
| Smartphone Connectivity | - | Yes |
| Voice Control | - | Yes |
| Audio | - | Yes |
| Wireless Android Auto | - | Yes |
| Spec | LX | Sonet |
|---|---|---|
| LED Headlamps | Standard | Yes |
| Daytime Running Lamps | Standard LED | Yes |
| Roof Rails | Standard | Yes |
| Exterior Colour Options | White Nova, Sonic Titanium, Graphite Black GF, Manganese Luster, Terrane Khaki | Multiple |
| Headlights | Standard | Yes |
| Panoramic Sunroof | Not Available | No |
| Front Overhang | - | 800 mm |
| Rear Overhang | - | 695 mm |
| Body Type | - | Sub-Compact SUV |
| Alloy Wheel Design | - | Alloy Alloy |
| Wing Mirror Type | - | Electric |
| Rear Wiper | - | Yes |
| Led Headlights | Standard | Yes |
| DRL | Standard LED | Yes |
| Led Taillights | - | Yes |
| Fog Lights | - | Yes |
| Fog Lamps | - | Yes |
| Front Fog Lights | - | Yes |
| 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 | - | 7 |
| Exterior Mirror Electric | - | Yes |
| Auto Headlights | - | Yes |
| Automatic Headlamps | - | Yes |
| Headlamps | Standard | Yes |
| Headlight Type | Standard | Yes |
| Exterior Mirror Folding | - | Yes |
| Headlamp Levelling | - | Yes |
| Daytime Running Lights | Standard LED | Yes |
| Front Fog Lamps | - | Yes |
| Rear Spoiler | - | Yes |
| Exterior Door Handle Colour | - | Body Colour |
| Load Bed Liner | - | Not Available |
| Active Exhaust | - | Not Available |
| Electric Blind Sunroof | - | Standard |
| Spec | LX | Sonet |
|---|---|---|
| Approach Angle | 21.0 deg | 21 deg |
| Departure Angle | 22.0 deg | 35 deg |
| Terrain Modes | Standard | Not Available |
| Locking Differential | Centre and Rear Torsen LSD | No |
| 4WD System Type | Permanent all-wheel drive | Not Applicable |
| Approach Angle Deg | 21.0 deg | 21 deg |
| Departure Angle Deg | 22.0 deg | 35 deg |
| Ground Clearance Max | 205 mm | 211 mm |
| Ground Clearance Min | 205 mm | 211 mm |
| Crawl Control | Standard | Not Available |
| Ramp Breakover Angle | - | 16 deg |
| Ramp-over Angle | - | 18 deg |
| Recovery Hooks | - | No |
| Underbody Protection | - | No |
| Hill Descent Control | Standard | Not Available |
| Off Road Descent Control | - | Not Available |
| Terrain Response System | - | 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 |
| Breakover Angle | - | 16 deg |
| Wading Depth | - | Not Available |
| Spec | LX | Sonet |
|---|---|---|
| Tyre Size | F:265-50 R22 Aluminium F SPORT / R:265-50 R22 Aluminium F SPORT | 215/55 R17 |
| Front Brake Type | Ventilated Disc | Ventilated Disc |
| Rear Brake Type | Ventilated Disc | Drum |
| Spare Wheel Type | Full 265-50R22 AluminiumFSPORT | Temporary Spare |
| Wheel Rim Size | 22 | 215/55 R17 |
| Handbrake Type | Electric | 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 | 22 | 215/55 R17 |
| Wheel Type | - | Alloy Alloy |
| Tyre Type | - | Radial |
| Tyre Load Index | - | 102 |
| Tyre Speed Rating | - | H |
| Spare Tyre | Full 265-50R22 AluminiumFSPORT | Temporary Spare |
| Tyre Pressure Monitoring | Standard | Yes |
| Tyre Pressure Display | - | Yes |
| Hydraulic Brake Assist | - | Yes |
| Autonomous Emergency Brake | - | Yes |
| Steering Wheel Audio Controls | - | Yes |
| Wheel Material | - | Alloy Alloy |
| Wheels | - | Alloy Alloy |
| Spare Wheel Size Type | - | Temporary Spare |
| Electric Park Brake | - | Electronic |
| Wheel Size Type | - | 215/55 R17 |
| 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 | LX | Sonet |
|---|---|---|
| Service Interval | 12 months / 10,000km | 15000 |
| Alternator | - | Yes |
| Engine Oil Capacity | - | 4.5 l |
| Engine Oil Change Interval | - | 15000 |
| Service Plan | - | 3 Years / 45,000 km |
| Service Plan Duration | - | 3 Years / 45,000 km |
| Service Plan Distance | - | 3 Years / 45,000 km |
| Maintenance Plan | - | 3 Years / 45,000 km |
| 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 | LX | Sonet |
|---|---|---|
| CO2 Emissions | 222 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 | LX | Sonet |
|---|---|---|
| Ownership Role | Private luxury, family and business | Flagship |
| Price Zar | 2687500 ZAR | 469995 ZAR |
| Pricing Role | Flagship | Current listed price |
| Starting Price | 2687500 | 469995 |
| Starting Price Zar | 2687500 | 469995 |
| Spec | LX | Sonet |
|---|---|---|
| Warranty | 7 years / 100,000km | 7 Years / 150,000 km |
| Basic Warranty | 7 years / 100,000km | 7 Years / 150,000 km |
| Warranty Years | 7 years / 100,000km | 7 Years / 150,000 km |
| Warranty Kilometers | 7 years / 100,000km | 7 Years / 150,000 km |
| Anti-Corrosion Warranty | - | 5 Years |
| Roadside Assistance | - | 5 Years |
| Roadside Assistance | - | 5 Years |
| Warranty Roadside Assistance | - | 5 Years |
| Spec | LX | Sonet |
|---|---|---|
| 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 LX 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: LX 98 vs Sonet 36.
Efficiency index: LX 47 vs Sonet 65.
Safety-equipment index: LX 93 vs Sonet 93.
Practicality index: LX 84 vs Sonet 59.
Ownership-cover index: LX 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
LX and Sonet image comparison
Open an image for its full canonical file or visit the model page for the complete vehicle record.
Lexus LX
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KIA Sonet
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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
LX leads by 19 points
LX holds a noticeable catalogue-index lead over Sonet.
Evidence leader
83
/100
Lead
19
points
Data
69%
source coverage
83
#1
Evidence leader
LX
69% source coverage
3 strong categories
Best at
Performance 98
Check
Efficiency 47
Performance
98
Efficiency
47
Safety
93
Practicality
84
Leads by 19 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
LX +62
Efficiency
Sonet +18
Safety
Level
Practicality
LX +25
Moderate difference in the source-backed catalogue index.
Why this score View full breakdown
Evidence-index leader
LX
Performance
98/100
Efficiency
47/100
Safety
93/100
Practicality
84/100
Sonet
Performance
36/100
Efficiency
65/100
Safety
93/100
Practicality
59/100
Ownership
71/100
What the evidence means
Evidence index
Lexus LX
leads the specification evidence index with 83 pts
vs 64 pts for Sonet
In Hagalu's specification evidence index, LX 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.
LX 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.