Source type: Official OEM South Africa
KIA Sonet Panel Van vs KIA Sorento
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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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
VS
KIA Sorento
2.2 CRDi SXL AWD DCT
Diesel
8-Speed DCT
Current
ZAR 1,299,995
ex-showroom
⚡ 148 kW
🔧 440 Nm
⛽ 15.6 km/l
＋
Add a 3rd car
Decision summary
KIA Sonet Panel Van vs KIA Sorento: the short answer
Sorento holds a noticeable catalogue-index lead over Sonet Panel Van.
Sonet Panel Van starts ZAR 660,000 cheaper
Sonet Panel Van from ZAR 339,995 · Sorento from ZAR 999,995
Five key differences
Exact selected derivativesSwipe sideways to compare every column
| Specification | Sonet Panel Van | Sorento |
|---|---|---|
| Maximum Power | Sonet Panel Van85 kW @ 6300 rpm | Sorento148 kW @ 3800 rpm |
| Maximum Torque | Sonet Panel Van143 Nm @ 4000 rpm | Sorento440 Nm @ 1750 rpm |
| Engine Size | Sonet Panel Van1497 cc | Sorento2151 cc |
| Combined Fuel Economy | Sonet Panel Van16.9 km/l | Sorento15.6 km/l |
| Ground Clearance | Sonet Panel Van211 mm | Sorento185 mm |
Strongest published figure in that row; no road-test winner is implied.
Source type: Official OEM South Africa
What Each Car Gets Right (and Wrong)
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
Specification evidence leader
Sorento
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
Which One's Right for You?
Sonet Panel Van
- Buyers prioritising the lower published fuel or energy use
Sorento
- Buyers prioritising the stronger published powertrain figures
- 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
| Spec | Sonet Panel Van | Sorento |
|---|---|---|
| Model Introduced Year | 2022 | 2021 |
| Generation | Commercial derivative of first-generation Sonet BC3 platform | Fourth generation (MQ4); global launch 2020, SA 2021 |
| Facelift History | No significant facelift; tracks Sonet passenger model updates | Fourth generation (MQ4) launched SA 2021; updated spec 2024 |
| Facelift Launched Since | Original current-generation version | 2024 |
| Facelift Version Ending | Current | Current |
| Body Style | Van | SUV |
| Color Note | Clear White, Aurora Black Pearl | Glacier White Pearl, Aurora Black Pearl, Steel Grey, Interstellar Grey, Gravity Blue |
| Dealer Stock Note | Mid grade in the South Africa lineup | Flagship grade in the South Africa lineup |
| Model Year | 2026 | 2026 |
| Production Status | active | active |
| Segment | Van | SUV |
| Tare Mass Kg | 1230 kg | 1960 kg |
| Vehicle Type | Van | SUV |
| Drivetrain Note | - | Drive layout derived from the official derivative naming: 2.2 CRDi SXL AWD DCT |
| Spec | Sonet Panel Van | Sorento |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 3995 mm | 4810 mm |
| Width | 1790 mm | 1900 mm |
| Height | 1635 mm | 1700 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2500 mm | 2815 mm |
| Ground Clearance (Default) | 211 mm | 185 mm |
| Ground Clearance (With Full Seating Load) | 190 mm | 176 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 l | 67 l |
| Boot/Cargo Space | 1296 l | 219 l |
| Kerb Weight | 1230 kg | 1960 kg |
| Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) | 1670 kg | 2550 kg |
| Payload Capacity | 350 kg | 620 kg |
| Towing Capacity | 1100 kg | 2000 kg |
| Seating Capacity | 2 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Rows | 1 rows | 3 rows |
| Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Minimum Turning Radius | 10.4 m | 11.2 m |
| Front Headroom | 990 mm | 1010 mm |
| Rear Headroom | Not Applicable | 955 mm |
| Front Legroom | 1030 mm | 1040 mm |
| Rear Legroom | Not Applicable | 855 mm |
| Spec | Sonet Panel Van | Sorento |
|---|---|---|
| Front Track Width | 1544 mm | 1640 mm |
| Rear Track Width | 1536 mm | 1644 mm |
| Front Suspension | MacPherson Strut | MacPherson Strut |
| Rear Suspension | Coupled Torsion Beam | Multi-Link |
| Chassis Type | Unibody | Unibody |
| Power Steering | Yes | Yes |
| Steering Column | Adjustable | Adjustable |
| Front Spring Type | Coil Spring | Coil Spring |
| Rear Spring Type | Coil Spring | Coil Spring |
| Front Anti-Roll Bar | Yes | Yes |
| Rear Anti-Roll Bar | Yes | Yes |
| Shock Absorber Type | Telescopic | Telescopic |
| Chassis Material | Unibody | Unibody |
| Front Suspension Type | MacPherson Strut | MacPherson Strut |
| MagneRide Damping | Not Available | Not Available |
| Rear Axle Type | Coupled Torsion Beam | Multi-Link |
| Rear Suspension Type | Coupled Torsion Beam | Multi-Link |
| Shock Absorbers | Telescopic | Telescopic |
| Suspension | MacPherson Strut | MacPherson Strut |
| Spec | Sonet Panel Van | Sorento |
|---|---|---|
| Load Bed Length | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Load Bed Width | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Climate Control | No | Yes |
| Power Windows | Yes | Yes |
| Keyless Entry | No | Yes |
| Push Button Start | No | Yes |
| Wireless Charging | No | Yes |
| Sunroof | No | Yes |
| Electric Tailgate | No | Yes |
| Automatic Headlamps | No | Yes |
| Rain Sensing Wipers | No | Yes |
| Auto Dimming Mirror | No | Yes |
| Boot Space Seats Folded | 1143 l | 616 l |
| Boot Space Seats Folded | 1143 l | 616 l |
| Rear Window Defroster | Yes | Yes |
| Electric Mirror Folding | No | Yes |
| Driver Seat Height Adjustment | No | Yes |
| Follow Me Home Headlamps | Yes | Yes |
| 12V Accessory Socket | Yes | Yes |
| Speed Limiter | Yes | Yes |
| AC Type | No | Yes |
| Adaptive Dampers | No | No |
| Aero Kit | No | No |
| Auto Dimming Irvm | No | Yes |
| Boot Opener | Remote | Remote |
| Chrome Exterior Highlights | No | No |
| Chrome Grille | Yes | Yes |
| Climate Zones | 1 | 2 |
| Door Ajar Warning | Yes | Yes |
| Drag Coefficient | 0.34 | 0.35 |
| Driver Display | Digital Cluster | Digital Cluster |
| Electric Folding Mirrors | Yes | Yes |
| Engine Check Warning | Yes | Yes |
| Engine Start Button Illumination | No | Yes |
| Engine Start Stop | No | Yes |
| Engine Start Stop Button | No | Yes |
| Engine Warranty | 7 Years / 150,000 km | 7 Years / 150,000 km |
| Front Armrest | Yes | Centre Armrest |
| Front Power Outlet | Yes | Yes |
| Fuel Consumption Combined | 5.9 | 6.4 |
| Fuel Lid Opener | Remote | Remote |
| Glovebox Cooling | No | No |
| Headlamp Height Adjust | Yes | Yes |
| Headlamp Washer | No | No |
| Headrest Adjustable | Yes | Yes |
| Heads Up Display | No | Yes |
| Hill Start Assist | Yes | Yes |
| Impact Sensing Door Unlock | Yes | Yes |
| Intercooler | No | Yes |
| Multi Function Steering | Yes | Yes |
| Panoramic Roof | No | Yes |
| Performance Data Logger | No | No |
| Power Mirrors | Yes | Yes |
| Push Button Start | No | Yes |
| Rear Defogger | Yes | Yes |
| Rear Reading Lamps | Yes | Yes |
| Rear Seat Split | Yes | Yes |
| Rear Wing | Yes | Yes |
| Remote Engine Start | No | No |
| Rev Matching | No | No |
| Ride Mode Selection | No | Yes |
| Roof Antenna | Yes | Yes |
| Seat Type | Fabric Seats | Leather Seats |
| Seatbelt Pre Tensioner | Yes | Yes |
| Service Reminder | Yes | Yes |
| Side Steps | No | No |
| Skid Plates | No | No |
| Spare Wheel | Temporary Spare | Temporary Spare |
| Speed Alert System | Yes | Yes |
| Stabilizer Bar | Yes | Yes |
| Steering Mounted Controls | Yes | Yes |
| Steering Response | Normal | Normal |
| Tachometer | Yes | Yes |
| Tail Lamps | Yes | Yes |
| Telescopic Steering | Tilt and Telescopic | Tilt and Telescopic |
| Tilt Steering | Tilt and Telescopic | Tilt and Telescopic |
| Trip Computer | Yes | Yes |
| Tyre Repair Kit | No | No |
| Vanity Mirror | Yes | Yes |
| Voice Command | Yes | Yes |
| Voice Command Support | Yes | Yes |
| Accelerator 0 100 | 11.2 sec | 8.5 sec |
| Air Conditioning | No | Yes |
| Automatic High Beam | No | Yes |
| Battery Preconditioning | Not Available | Not Available |
| Bed Extender | Not Available | Not Available |
| Bottle Holders | 4 | 6 |
| Canopy Fitment | Not Available | Not Available |
| Centre Console | Centre Armrest | Centre Armrest |
| Common Rail Injection | Gasoline Direct Injection | Common Rail Direct Injection |
| Diff Lock | No | No |
| Difflock | No | No |
| Digital Speedometer | Yes | Yes |
| Electric Fold Indicator Mirrors | No | Yes |
| Front Diff Lock | Not Available | - |
| Front Wiper | Yes | No |
| Front Wipers Type | Yes | No |
| Glove Box | Yes | Yes |
| Heated Mirrors | No | Yes |
| Intelligent Battery System | Not Available | Not Available |
| Intelligent Keyless Entry | No | Yes |
| Lift Gate | No | Yes |
| Load Bed Cover | Not Available | Not Available |
| Load Bed Light | Not Available | Not Available |
| Load Bed Steps | Not Available | Not Available |
| Loadbox Depth Mm | Not Available | Not Available |
| Loadbox Length Mm | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Loadbox Rope Hooks | Not Available | Not Available |
| Loadbox Tiedown Brackets | Not Available | Not Available |
| Loadbox Width Mm | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Manual Aircon | No | Yes |
| Mirror | Electric | Electric |
| One Pedal Driving | Not Available | Not Available |
| Passive Entry Start | No | Yes |
| Power Socket 12v | Yes | Yes |
| Powered Tailgate | No | Yes |
| Reading Lights Rear | Yes | Yes |
| Rear Air Conditioning | No | Yes |
| Rear Diff Lock | Not Available | - |
| Rear Electric Motor | Not Available | Not Available |
| Rear LED Combination Taillights | Yes | Yes |
| Rearview Mirror Inside | No | Yes |
| Regenerative Braking Levels | Not Available | Not Available |
| Remote Central Locking | Yes | Yes |
| Remote Side Mirror | Yes | Yes |
| Remote Start | No | No |
| Rim Size | 215/60 R16 | 255/45 R20 |
| Roof Load | 50 kg | 100 kg |
| Roof Rack Compatibility | Yes | Yes |
| Side Impact Bars | Yes | Yes |
| Sonar | Yes | Yes |
| Sound System | 4 | 12 |
| Source Model Column | sonet-panel-van | sorento |
| Sport Plus Mode | Not Available | Not Available |
| Sports Bar | Not Available | Not Available |
| Stabilizer Bar Front | Yes | Yes |
| Stabilizer Bar Rear | Yes | Yes |
| Steering Column Adjustment | Tilt and Telescopic | Tilt and Telescopic |
| Sub Frame | Unibody | Unibody |
| Surround View Monitor | No | Yes |
| Tailgate Damper | Not Available | Not Available |
| Tailgate Lock | Not Available | Not Available |
| Tow Bar Type | Not Available | Not Available |
| TPMS | Yes | Yes |
| Trim Level | mid | flagship |
| Unlocking | No | Yes |
| Vanity Mirror Illuminated | Yes | Yes |
| Variant Role | Commercial utility derivative | Flagship / premium derivative |
| Vdc | Yes | Yes |
| Vehicle To Grid | Not Available | Not Available |
| Vehicle To Load | Not Available | Not Available |
| Walk Away Auto Door Lock | No | Yes |
| Walk Away Lock | No | Yes |
| Wireless Charger | No | Yes |
| Power Sliding Doors | - | No |
| Spec | Sonet Panel Van | Sorento |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 1.5-litre Naturally Aspirated Petrol | 2.2-litre Turbocharged Diesel |
| Engine Code | G4LC | D4HB |
| Fuel Type | Petrol | Diesel |
| Hybrid System | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Engine Displacement | 1497 cc | 2151 cc |
| Cylinders | 4 | 4 |
| Cylinder Layout | Inline | Inline |
| Valves | 16 | 16 |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 | 4 |
| Aspiration | Naturally Aspirated | Turbocharged |
| Fuel System | Direct Injection | Common Rail Direct Injection |
| Compression Ratio | 13.0:1 | 15.4:1 |
| Bore | 75 mm | 85.4 mm |
| Stroke | 84.5 mm | 94 mm |
| Maximum Power | 85 kW @ 6300 rpm | 148 kW @ 3800 rpm |
| Maximum Torque | 143 Nm @ 4000 rpm | 440 Nm @ 1750 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 | FWD | AWD |
| Transmission | CVT | 8-Speed DCT |
| Top Speed | 172 km/h | 200 km/h |
| 0-100 km/h | 11.2 sec | 8.5 sec |
| Quarter Mile | Not Officially Disclosed | Not Officially Disclosed |
| Drive Modes | No | Not Officially Disclosed |
| Launch Control | No | No |
| Rev Limiter | Not Officially Disclosed | Not Officially Disclosed |
| Power-to-Weight Ratio | 69.1 kW/tonne | 75.5 kW/tonne |
| Torque-to-Weight Ratio | 116.3 Nm/tonne | 224.5 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 | Sonet Panel Van | Sorento |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Position | Front Transverse | Front Transverse |
| Gearbox | Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT) | 8-Speed DCT |
| Drivetrain Layout | FWD | FWD |
| LSD Available | No | No |
| Transfer Case | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Differential Lock | No | No |
| Paddle Shifters | No | Yes |
| Final Drive Ratio | 3.56 | 3.63 |
| Steering Turns Lock to Lock | 15.1:1 | 15.2:1 |
| Number of Gears | CVT | 8 |
| Transmission Type | Continuously Variable Transmission | Dual Clutch Transmission |
| Clutch Type | Torque Converter | Dry Dual Clutch |
| Gear Shift Indicator | No | No |
| Gear Shift Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Drivetrain | FWD | AWD |
| 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 | Yes |
| Differential Type Front | Not Available | - |
| Differential Type Rear | Not Available | - |
| Front Differential Lock | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Gearbox Type | Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT) | 8-Speed DCT |
| Low Range Ratio | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Low Range | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Axle Layout | FWD | AWD |
| Rear Differential Lock | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Transfer Case Guard | Not Available | Not Available |
| Transmission Speeds | CVT | 8 |
| Spec | Sonet Panel Van | Sorento |
|---|---|---|
| Claimed Mileage | 16.9 km/l | 15.6 km/l |
| City Mileage | 13.7 km/l | 12.8 km/l |
| Highway Mileage | 20.0 km/l | 18.5 km/l |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 l | 67 l |
| Emission Standard | Euro 6 | Euro 6 |
| AdBlue Tank Capacity | No | No |
| Auto Start Stop | Yes | Yes |
| Low Fuel Warning | Yes | Yes |
| Real-world Mileage | 16.9 km/l | 15.6 km/l |
| Charging Port Type | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Charging Type | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Fuel Tank Litres | 45 | 67 |
| 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 |
| Spec | Sonet Panel Van | Sorento |
|---|---|---|
| Airbags | 6 | 7 |
| ABS | Yes | Yes |
| Electronic Stability Control | Yes | Yes |
| Traction Control | Yes | Yes |
| Hill Descent Control | Not Available | Not Available |
| Hill Start Assist | Yes | Yes |
| Child Safety Lock | Yes | Yes |
| ISOFIX Mounts | Yes | Yes |
| Brake Assist | Yes | Yes |
| Tyre Pressure Monitor | Yes | Yes |
| Engine Immobiliser | Yes | Yes |
| Alarm System | Yes | Yes |
| Central Locking | Yes | Yes |
| Side Impact Beams | Yes | Yes |
| Seatbelt Warning All Seats | Yes | Yes |
| Speed Alert System | Yes | Yes |
| Pedestrian Detection AEB | No | Yes |
| Front Parking Sensors | No | Yes |
| Safety Rating | 5 | 5 |
| Whiplash Protection | Yes | Yes |
| Lane Change Warning | No | Yes |
| AEB | No | Yes |
| BA | Yes | Yes |
| Brake Override System | Yes | Yes |
| Curtain Airbags | Yes | Yes |
| Driver Airbag | Yes | Yes |
| EBD | Yes | Yes |
| Engine Immobiliser | Yes | Yes |
| Fatigue Detection | No | Yes |
| Hill Hold | Yes | Yes |
| Passenger Airbag | Yes | Yes |
| Rear Cross Traffic Alert | No | Yes |
| Seatbelt Pretensioners | Yes | Yes |
| Seatbelt Reminder | Yes | Yes |
| Side Airbags | Yes | Yes |
| Stability Control | Yes | Yes |
| TCS | Yes | Yes |
| Blind Spot Monitoring | No | Yes |
| Knee Airbag | No | Yes |
| ABS EBD | Yes | Yes |
| Anti Theft Alarm | Yes | Yes |
| Driver Front Passenger Airbags | 6 | 7 |
| Driver Passenger Airbags | 6 | 7 |
| ESC With Traction Control | Yes | Yes |
| Spec | Sonet Panel Van | Sorento |
|---|---|---|
| Cruise Control | Yes | Yes |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | No | Yes |
| Lane Keep Assist | No | Yes |
| Lane Departure Warning | No | Yes |
| Blind Spot Monitoring | No | Yes |
| Rear Cross Traffic Alert | No | Yes |
| Parking Sensors | Yes | Yes |
| Rear View Camera | Yes | Yes |
| 360 Degree Camera | No | Yes |
| Autonomous Emergency Braking | No | Yes |
| Driver Fatigue Alert | No | Yes |
| Traffic Sign Recognition | No | No |
| Auto Highbeam | No | Yes |
| Auto Lights | No | Yes |
| Auto Wipers | No | Yes |
| Eco Mode | No | Yes |
| EV Mode | No | No |
| Rear Parking Sensors | Yes | Yes |
| Reverse Camera | Yes | Yes |
| Sport Mode | No | Yes |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | No | Yes |
| Park Assist | No | Yes |
| Around View Monitor | No | Yes |
| Blind Spot Warning | No | Yes |
| Emergency Braking | No | Yes |
| Forward Collision Warning | No | Yes |
| Front Camera | No | Yes |
| Parking Distance Sensors | Yes | Yes |
| Parking Sensor | Yes | Yes |
| Automatic High Beam | No | Yes |
| Pre-Collision System | No | Yes |
| Rain Sensor Wipers | No | Yes |
| Rear View Camera | Yes | Yes |
| Reverse Camera Type | Yes | Yes |
| Reversing Camera | Yes | Yes |
| Surround View Camera | No | Yes |
| Spec | Sonet Panel Van | Sorento |
|---|---|---|
| Seat Material | Cloth | Leather |
| Seat Adjustment | 6-Way Manual | 8-Way Power |
| Heated Seats | No | Yes |
| Ventilated Seats | No | Yes |
| Steering Type | Yes | Yes |
| Steering Adjustment | Tilt and Telescopic | Tilt and Telescopic |
| Ambient Lighting | No | Yes |
| Folding Rear Seats | Yes | Yes |
| Front Armrest | Centre Armrest | Centre Armrest |
| Rear Armrest | Yes | Yes |
| Front Shoulder Room | 1380 mm | 1405 mm |
| Rear Shoulder Room | 1330 mm | 1350 mm |
| Cup Holders | 4 | 6 |
| Rear AC Vents | No | Yes |
| Rear USB Ports | No | Yes |
| Steering Wheel Material | Leather | Leather |
| Instrument Cluster Type | Digital | Digital |
| Interior Colour Options | Black | Black |
| Driver Lumbar Support | No | Yes |
| Door Map Pockets | Yes | Yes |
| 60 40 Split Seat | Yes | Yes |
| Adjustable Driver Seat | 6-Way Manual | 8-Way Power |
| Adjustable Front Seat | 4-Way Manual | 4-Way Power |
| Cooled Seats | No | Yes |
| Driver Seat Adjustment | 6-Way Manual | 8-Way Power |
| Fabric Seats | Yes | No |
| Front Headrest | Adjustable | Adjustable |
| Leather Seats | No | Yes |
| Memory Seats | No | Yes |
| Passenger Seat Adjustment | 4-Way Manual | 4-Way Power |
| Rear Headrest | Adjustable | Adjustable |
| Armrest Front | Centre Armrest | Centre Armrest |
| Armrest Rear | Yes | Yes |
| Boot Space Seats Down | 1143 | 616 |
| Driver Seat | 6-Way Manual | 8-Way Power |
| Interior Courtesy Lamps | 2-seat cab, sealed cargo bulkhead, touchscreen infotainment, air conditioning, 205mm ground clearance | 12.3+12.3-inch panoramic curved display, Bose Premium Sound, dual panoramic sunroof (SX/SXL), 360-degree AVM (SX/SXL), ventilated front seats, heated second row, highway driving assist, 7 seats |
| Interior Trim Colour | Black | Black |
| Leather Accented Seat Trim | Cloth | Leather |
| Interior Colours | Black | Black |
| Rear Seat Centre Armrest | Yes | Yes |
| Seat Adjustment Driver Backrest | No | Yes |
| Seat Belt Warning | Yes | Yes |
| Seat Fold Type | Yes | Yes |
| Seat Trim | Cloth | Leather |
| Spec | Sonet Panel Van | Sorento |
|---|---|---|
| Infotainment System | 8.0-inch Touchscreen | 12.3-inch Touchscreen |
| Apple CarPlay | Yes | Yes |
| Android Auto | Yes | Yes |
| Bluetooth Connectivity | Yes | Yes |
| Number of Speakers | 4 | 12 |
| Navigation System | Yes | Yes |
| Digital Instrument Cluster | Yes | Yes |
| USB Ports | 2 | 4 |
| Wireless Apple CarPlay | Yes | Yes |
| Wireless Android Auto | Yes | Yes |
| FM Radio | Yes | Yes |
| Steering Wheel Audio Controls | Yes | Yes |
| Voice Recognition | Yes | Yes |
| AUX Input | No | No |
| Infotainment Screen Size | 8.0 | 12.3 |
| Wi-Fi Hotspot | No | No |
| Audio Controls On Steering | Yes | Yes |
| Infotainment Display | 8.0 | 12.3 |
| Rear Usb | No | Yes |
| Premium Audio | No | Yes |
| Audio | Yes | Yes |
| Audio Speakers | 4 | 12 |
| Audio System | Yes | Yes |
| Display Audio | 8.0-inch Touchscreen | 12.3-inch Touchscreen |
| Front Rear USB Charge Ports | 2 | 4 |
| Head Up Display | No | Yes |
| Infotainment Screen | 8.0 | 12.3 |
| Multi Information Display | Digital | Digital |
| Connected Services | Yes | Yes |
| Voice Control | Yes | Yes |
| Smartphone Connectivity | Yes | Yes |
| Radio | Yes | Yes |
| Touchscreen | 8.0 | 12.3 |
| Spec | Sonet Panel Van | Sorento |
|---|---|---|
| LED Headlamps | No | Yes |
| Daytime Running Lamps | Yes | Yes |
| Fog Lamps | No | Yes |
| Roof Rails | Yes | Yes |
| Alloy Wheel Design | Steel | Alloy Alloy |
| Chrome Exterior Finish | No | No |
| Body Cladding | No | Yes |
| Rear Spoiler | Yes | Yes |
| Exterior Colour Options | Multiple | Multiple |
| Roof Type | Standard | Standard |
| Wing Mirror Type | Electric | Electric |
| Rear Wiper | Yes | No |
| Door Handle Finish | Body Colour | Body Colour |
| Body Type | Panel Van | SUV |
| DRL | Yes | Yes |
| Fog Lights | No | Yes |
| Front Fog Lights | No | Yes |
| Led Headlights | No | Yes |
| Led Taillights | Yes | Yes |
| Rear Fog Lights | Yes | Yes |
| Front Overhang | 800 mm | 900 mm |
| Rear Overhang | 695 mm | 1095 mm |
| Auto Headlights | No | Yes |
| Automatic Headlamps | No | Yes |
| Daytime Running Lights | Yes | Yes |
| Electric Blind Sunroof | Standard | Standard |
| Exterior Colour Options | 2 | 5 |
| Exterior Door Handle Colour | Body Colour | Body Colour |
| Exterior Mirror Electric | Yes | Yes |
| Exterior Mirror Folding | No | Yes |
| Front Fog Lamps | No | Yes |
| Headlamp Levelling | No | Yes |
| Headlamps | No | Yes |
| Headlight Type | No | Yes |
| Headlights | No | Yes |
| Load Bed Liner | Not Available | Not Available |
| Panoramic Sunroof | No | Yes |
| Active Exhaust | Not Available | Not Available |
| Rear Spoiler | Yes | Yes |
| Spec | Sonet Panel Van | Sorento |
|---|---|---|
| Approach Angle | 21 deg | 19 deg |
| Departure Angle | 35 deg | 20 deg |
| Wading Depth | Not Available | Not Available |
| Terrain Modes | Not Available | Not Available |
| Locking Differential | No | No |
| Underbody Protection | No | Yes |
| Ramp Breakover Angle | 16 deg | 17 deg |
| Recovery Hooks | No | No |
| 4WD System Type | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Hill Descent Control | Not Available | Not Available |
| Ramp-over Angle | 18 deg | 19 deg |
| Approach Angle Deg | 21 deg | 19 deg |
| Breakover Angle | 16 deg | 17 deg |
| Departure Angle Deg | 35 deg | 20 deg |
| Energy Recovery Display | Not Available | Not Available |
| Front Skid Plate Guard | Not Available | - |
| Ground Clearance Max | 211 mm | 185 mm |
| Ground Clearance Min | 211 mm | 185 mm |
| Off Road Descent Control | Not Available | Not Available |
| Off Road Traction Assist | Not Available | - |
| Crawl Control | Not Available | Not Available |
| Rear Skid Plate Guard | Not Available | - |
| Skid Plates Fuel Tank | Not Available | - |
| Skid Plates Transfer Case | 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 | - |
| Terrain Response System | Not Available | Not Available |
| Underbody Camera | Not Available | Not Available |
| Spec | Sonet Panel Van | Sorento |
|---|---|---|
| Tyre Size | 215/60 R16 | 255/45 R20 |
| Wheel Type | Steel | Alloy Alloy |
| Front Brake Type | Ventilated Disc | Ventilated Disc |
| Rear Brake Type | Drum | Ventilated Disc |
| Spare Wheel Type | Temporary Spare | Temporary Spare |
| Front Brake Disc Diameter | 280 mm | 340 mm |
| Rear Brake Drum Diameter | 236 mm | 305 mm |
| Parking Brake Type | Electronic | Electronic |
| Tyre Load Index | 102 | 107 |
| Tyre Speed Rating | H | H |
| Wheel Rim Size | 215/60 R16 | 255/45 R20 |
| Brake Type Front | Ventilated Disc | Ventilated Disc |
| Brake Type Rear | Drum | Ventilated Disc |
| Spare Tyre | Temporary Spare | Temporary Spare |
| Tyre Type | Radial | Radial |
| Front Tyre Width | 215 mm | 235 mm |
| Rear Tyre Width | 215 mm | 235 mm |
| Wheel Diameter | 215/60 R16 | 255/45 R20 |
| Auto Brake Hold | Electronic | Electronic |
| Autonomous Emergency Brake | No | Yes |
| Brakes | Ventilated Disc | Ventilated Disc |
| Cornering Brake Control | Yes | Yes |
| Electric Park Brake | Electronic | Electronic |
| Electronic Brakeforce Distribution | Yes | Yes |
| Fifth Wheel Prep | Not Available | Not Available |
| Handbrake Type | Electronic | Electronic |
| Hydraulic Brake Assist | Yes | Yes |
| Leather Steering Wheel | Leather | Leather |
| Spare Wheel Size Type | Temporary Spare | Temporary Spare |
| Steering Wheel Audio Controls | Yes | Yes |
| Steering Wheel Cruise Controls | Yes | Yes |
| Steering Wheel Phone Controls | Yes | Yes |
| Steering Wheel Trim | Leather | Leather |
| Tyre Pressure Display | Yes | Yes |
| Tyre Pressure Monitoring | Yes | Yes |
| Wheel Material | Steel | Alloy Alloy |
| Wheel Size Type | 215/60 R16 | 255/45 R20 |
| Wheels | Steel | Alloy Alloy |
| Spec | Sonet Panel Van | Sorento |
|---|---|---|
| Service Interval | 15000 | 15000 |
| Approx Service Cost | R3,000 per service | R4,200 per service |
| Battery Warranty | 7 Years / 150,000 km | 7 Years / 150,000 km |
| Maintenance Plan | 3 Years / 45,000 km | 3 Years / 45,000 km |
| Engine Oil Capacity | 4.5 l | 6.0 l |
| Engine Oil Change Interval | 15000 | 15000 |
| First Service At | 15000 | 15000 |
| Service Plan Duration | 3 Years / 45,000 km | 3 Years / 45,000 km |
| Service Plan Distance | 3 Years / 45,000 km | 3 Years / 45,000 km |
| Anti-Rust Treatment | Yes | Yes |
| Alternator | Yes | Yes |
| Service Plan | 3 Years / 45,000 km | 3 Years / 45,000 km |
| Service Intervals | 15000 | 15000 |
| Spec | Sonet Panel Van | Sorento |
|---|---|---|
| Warranty Years | 7 Years / 150,000 km | 7 Years / 150,000 km |
| Warranty Kilometers | 7 Years / 150,000 km | 7 Years / 150,000 km |
| Roadside Assistance | 5 Years | 5 Years |
| Anti-Corrosion Warranty | 5 Years | 5 Years |
| Basic Warranty | 7 Years / 150,000 km | 7 Years / 150,000 km |
| Roadside Assistance | 5 Years | 5 Years |
| Warranty | 7 Years / 150,000 km | 7 Years / 150,000 km |
| Warranty Roadside Assistance | 5 Years | 5 Years |
| Spec | Sonet Panel Van | Sorento |
|---|---|---|
| CO2 Emissions | 138 g/km | 167 g/km |
| Start Stop System | Yes | Yes |
| Hybrid System Type | Not Available | Not Available |
| Noise Level | 67 dB | 69 dB |
| Variable Valve Timing | CVVT | No |
| Fuel Octane Requirement | 93 Octane | B7 Diesel |
| Particulate Filter | No | DPF |
| Euro Emission Standard | Euro 6 | Euro 6 |
| Green NCAP Rating | 4 | 5 |
| Idle CO2 Output | 145 | 175 |
| Fuel Evaporation Control | Yes | No |
| CO2 Emissions G Km | 138 | 167 |
| Spec | Sonet Panel Van | Sorento |
|---|---|---|
| Real-world City Mileage Min | 11.6 l/100km | 10.9 l/100km |
| Real-world City Mileage Max | 15.1 l/100km | 14.1 l/100km |
| Real-world Highway Mileage Min | 18.0 l/100km | 16.7 l/100km |
| Real-world Highway Mileage Max | 21.0 l/100km | 19.4 l/100km |
| Spec | Sonet Panel Van | Sorento |
|---|---|---|
| Ownership Role | Mid | Flagship |
| Price Zar | 359995 ZAR | 1299995 ZAR |
| Pricing Role | Current listed price | Current listed price |
| Starting Price | 359995 | 1299995 |
| Starting Price Zar | 359995 | 1299995 |
In depth: how these cars differ
This Sonet Panel Van and Sorento 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: Sonet Panel Van 36 vs Sorento 74.
Efficiency index: Sonet Panel Van 65 vs Sorento 61.
Safety-equipment index: Sonet Panel Van 72 vs Sorento 100.
Practicality index: Sonet Panel Van 59 vs Sorento 64.
Ownership-cover index: Sonet Panel Van 71 vs Sorento 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
Sonet Panel Van and Sorento image comparison
Open an image for its full canonical file or visit the model page for the complete vehicle record.
KIA Sonet Panel Van
View 8 more Sonet Panel Van images
KIA Sorento
View 8 more Sorento 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
Sorento leads by 16 points
Sorento holds a noticeable catalogue-index lead over Sonet Panel Van.
Evidence leader
75
/100
Lead
16
points
Data
99%
source coverage
75
#1
Evidence leader
Sorento
99% source coverage
3 strong categories
Best at
Safety 100
Check
Efficiency 61
Performance
74
Efficiency
61
Safety
100
Practicality
64
Ownership
71
Leads by 16 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
Sorento +38
Efficiency
Sonet Panel Van +4
Safety
Sorento +28
Practicality
Sorento +5
Ownership
Level
Moderate difference in the source-backed catalogue index.
Why this score View full breakdown
Evidence-index leader
Sorento
Performance
74/100
Efficiency
61/100
Safety
100/100
Practicality
64/100
Ownership
71/100
Sonet Panel Van
Performance
36/100
Efficiency
65/100
Safety
72/100
Practicality
59/100
Ownership
71/100
What the evidence means
Evidence index
KIA Sorento
leads the specification evidence index with 75 pts
vs 59 pts for Sonet Panel Van
In Hagalu's specification evidence index, Sorento leads. However, Sonet Panel Van may suit buyers prioritising different confirmed fields. Ultimately, the right choice depends on your driving priorities in South Africa.
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Sonet Panel Van vs Sorento 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.