Kia Sonet 1.5 SX AT (2024) vs Nissan Livina 1.5 EL A/T (2023)

Kia Sonet 1.5 SX AT (2024) vs Nissan Livina 1.5 EL A/T (2023): which should you buy?

Both the Kia Sonet 1.5 SX AT (2024) and the Nissan Livina 1.5 EL A/T (2023) sit around the same price point – ₱1,178,000 for the Sonet and ₱1,174,000 for the Livina – so cost is hardly a differentiator. The Sonet, however, packs a clear performance edge with 115 PS and 144 Nm, compared to the Livina’s 104 PS and 141 Nm, and it pairs that power with a modern IVT, which typically offers smoother acceleration and better fuel efficiency than the Livina’s conventional 4‑speed automatic. If you value a sportier drive and a more contemporary transmission, the Sonet is the better pick. In terms of practicality, the Livina wins with a 2‑3‑2 seating layout, giving seven seats versus the Sonet’s five‑seat cabin, making it more suitable for larger families or car‑pooling. Both share a 5‑door, FWD, unibody construction and a five‑year warranty, though the Sonet’s mileage cap is slightly higher (160,000 km vs 150,000 km). Exterior colour choice is broader on the Livina, offering five shades versus two on the Sonet. Choose the Kia Sonet if you prioritize power, a smoother IVT, and a compact crossover feel; opt for the Nissan Livina if you need extra seating capacity and a wider palette of colours for family use.