Kia Sonet vs MG ZS
Value retention, real cost and monthly money, compared on the same 2026 South African data.
The Kia Sonet wins on money kept: 67% retained after three years vs 57%, worth about R 36 062 at trade-in time.
Both curves, one chart
Head to head
| Sonet | ZS | |
|---|---|---|
| New price (from) | R 299 995 | R 289 900 |
| ±Monthly instalment | R 5 243/m | R 5 067/m |
| Retained after 1 year | 83% | 76% |
| Retained after 3 years | 67% | 57% |
| Value after 3 years | R 201 908 | R 165 847 |
| Lost to depreciation (3y) | R 98 087 | R 124 053 |
| Value after 5 years | R 161 120 | R 123 861 |
| Our tier | Mainstream | Chinese (new entrant) |
Kia Sonet →
Kia's Indian-built compact crossover has been a steady seller since 2021 and shares its platform with the Hyundai Venue. The unstressed 1.5 petrol keeps running costs low, and a panel van derivative targets small businesses. Consistent demand keeps used prices reasonably firm for the class.
Known for: practical compact crossover value
MG ZS →
The ZS led MG's return to SA in late 2024 and undercuts most compact SUV rivals, with the previous-generation car from R289,900 sold alongside the newer ZS Pro from R397,600. Buyers get plenty of kit but the base car's 4-speed automatic feels dated. As a recent returnee brand its trade-in record is still unproven.
Known for: rock-bottom compact suv pricing
Common questions
Which holds value better, the Kia Sonet or the MG ZS?
The Kia Sonet. It keeps about 67% of its price after three years against 57% for the MG ZS, a gap of 10 points.
Which is cheaper to own over three years?
Depreciation is the biggest ownership cost. The Kia Sonet loses about R 98 087 over three years and the MG ZS loses about R 124 053. Fuel, insurance and servicing can narrow or widen that, but the depreciation gap is the number to start from.
What do they cost per month?
On typical finance (10% deposit, 72 months, 11.75%), the Kia Sonet runs about R 5 243 per month and the MG ZS about R 5 067, before fees and insurance.
Keep going
Modelled estimates on a retail basis; spec levels and real transaction prices vary.