The next-generation Kia Sonet, likely to be introduced in India in 2027, has been spied testing in the country. This comes after our report that the Korean carmaker has been working on the second-generation Sonet (codenamed QY2E) in India. While the spied model is wrapped in heavy camouflage, some exterior design details could be seen.
- Will be underpinned by the Syros’s K1 platform
- Bigger 12.3-inch screens and enhanced rear-seat space likely
- Also expected to get a 5-star Bharat NCAP rating
Second-generation Kia Sonet spied: What could be seen?
Gets a split-style headlight setup with Sorento-like DRLs
Despite the heavy camouflage, a few changes to the fascia are visible, including a new split-style LED headlamp housing with Sorento-like boomerang-shaped LED daytime running lamps (DRLs) on top. The grille appears smaller than that of the current Sonet, albeit with the same honeycomb-patterned elements. The front bumper is also expected to be redesigned for a more aggressive look.
Features the older Seltos’s 17-inch alloys; a curved screen can be spotted too
Interestingly, in profile, the test mule sports an alloy-wheel design that was first seen on the first-generation Kia Seltos (2019-2022). These alloys on the Seltos were 17 inches, which is a size larger than those on the current Sonet. Other than this, pull-type door handles, disc brakes on both ends and flush-style roof rails are also seen. A prominent bulge on the wheel arches and the lower sections of the doors confirms cladding on these parts.
Keen-eyed viewers can spot a curved screen as well, comprising dual 12.3-inch displays, which could be the same as that of the Syros. No other in-cabin detail could be seen.
Tail-lights look similar to the front DRLs
At the rear, the tail-lights look slimmer than before and seem to mimic the front LED DRL design, though whether a light bar connects them remains under wraps thanks to the camouflage. The bumper also seems new.
Second-generation Kia Sonet: What else to expect?
To be built on the Syros’s K1 platform and will get bigger screens
It is known that the next-generation Sonet will move from the K2 base to the enhanced K1 platform that underpins the Syros. This is expected to address the compact SUV’s cramped rear space by allowing a longer wheelbase, which can enhance the cabin space. Moreover, with this upgrade to K1, Kia can aim for a 5-star Bharat NCAP rating for the new Sonet – matching the safety credentials achieved by the Syros.
Expect the dashboard to be revamped entirely, and save for bigger screens, the feature list is expected to be similar to that of the current model. Also, it will be interesting to see whether an advanced Level 2 ADAS suite makes its way to the new-gen Sonet, as the Korean manufacturer removed it from the Syros in its 2026 update.
Likely to retain the current engines; a strong hybrid option may be added later
The next-generation Kia Sonet is expected to be powered by the same set of powertrains as the current model. These include 83hp 1.2-litre naturally aspirated petrol, 120hp 1.2-litre turbo-petrol and 116hp 1.5-litre diesel engines. The manual and automatic transmission options are also likely to be carried over.
It is also known that Kia is developing a strong-hybrid engine for the Sonet and will likely introduce it in 2028 or 2029 after launching the next-gen model here. The technical details of this powertrain are yet to be revealed.
With the upcoming generation update, Kia is expected to increase prices of the Sonet, which currently ranges from Rs 7.34 lakh to Rs 14.09 lakh (ex-showroom).
Viraaj Bhatnagar
Glenn Noronha
Dhruv Dhaka
