Volkswagen Taigun AT vs Kia Sonet T AT — Powertrains compared
There are various mid-size and compact SUVs in the market today and we have covered almost all of them in detail. This time around, we bring you a different take on the Volkswagen Taigun and the Kia Sonet. They are different, are positioned at different price points, and though both are automatics, there’s a slight difference in the gearbox tech.
Mon, 17 Feb 2025
However, they have one strong common link — 1.0-litre turbo petrol engine. So, if one was to decide where to put their money based only on the powertrain, here's our take on its performance, fuel efficiency, and more. We're not doing a full-fledged comparison, but what we have here is an analogy based on their powertrains and how different they feel while driving.
Here's a comparison of the Volkswagen Taigun Automatic (AT) and the Kia Sonet Turbo Petrol Automatic (T AT) in terms of powertrains:
Volkswagen Taigun AT
Engine: 1.0L TSI Turbo Petrol (3-cylinder)
Power Output: 115 PS @ 5000-5500 rpm
Torque: 178 Nm @ 1750-4500 rpm
Transmission: 6-speed Torque Converter Automatic
Fuel Efficiency (ARAI): ~18.15 km/l
Kia Sonet T AT
Engine: 1.0L Turbo GDi Petrol (3-cylinder)
Power Output: 120 PS @ 6000 rpm
Torque: 172 Nm @ 1500-4000 rpm
Transmission: 7-speed Dual-Clutch Automatic (DCT)
Fuel Efficiency (ARAI): ~18.3 km/l
Key Differences:
1. Power: Sonet has a slight edge with 120 PS vs. Taigun’s 115 PS.
2. Torque: Taigun offers slightly more torque (178 Nm) but at a broader rpm range.
3. Transmission:
Taigun uses a 6-speed Torque Converter AT, which is more reliable and smoother in stop-and-go traffic.
Sonet uses a 7-speed DCT, which is quicker but may heat up in heavy traffic.
4. Fuel Efficiency: Both have similar fuel efficiency, with Sonet having a minor advantage.
5. Driving Experience:
Taigun’s torque converter AT offers a more linear power delivery and better long-term reliability.
Sonet’s DCT provides quicker shifts and a sportier feel but may suffer in bumper-to-bumper traffic.
Verdict
For city driving and long-term reliability → Taigun AT (Torque Converter is smoother and more durable).
For performance-oriented, sporty driving → Sonet T AT (DCT offers quicker shifts and slightly more power).