Key Highlights
- Fresh spy shots of the second-generation Kia Sonet have emerged in India.
- A wider grille, Seltos-inspired front fascia, new dual-tone alloy wheels, and a panoramic sunroof are visible.
- Launch is expected in 2027
We first reported on the next-gen Kia Sonet being spotted in India back in May. New spy shots have now surfaced, and this set is more revealing than the first. The test mule is still heavily camouflaged, but enough is showing to piece together a clear picture of where Kia is taking its most popular compact SUV.
What the New Shots Reveal
The front fascia is unmistakably Kia. A wide horizontal grille in the Tiger Nose signature is flanked by slim LED DRL blocks. The overall face looks wider and more upright than the current Sonet, drawing clear inspiration from the Seltos. The bonnet creases are sharper. The bumper treatment is cleaner.
On the sides, redesigned ORVMs and new dual-tone 17-inch alloy wheel patterns are visible. A panoramic sunroof cutout is evident on the roofline, which is expected given that the Syros already offers one on the same platform. The rear section appears more squared off than the current model, which should help with luggage space and rear headroom.
What Stays the Same
Engines carry over. The 1.2-litre naturally aspirated petrol, 1.0-litre turbo petrol, and 1.5-litre diesel options are all expected to continue. Gearbox choices remain unchanged too. A strong hybrid version is being evaluated but will not arrive at launch, most likely joining the lineup around 2028 or 2029.
The K1 platform brings a longer wheelbase compared to the outgoing K2 architecture, which directly addresses the current Sonet’s most criticised weakness: rear seat legroom. The Syros, which also uses K1, already received a 5-star Bharat NCAP rating. Expect the next-gen Sonet to target the same.
Launch remains on track for 2027. Competition at that point will include the next-gen Tata Nexon, Maruti Brezza facelift, Hyundai Venue, and Mahindra XUV 3XO. The Sonet will need every bit of this upgrade to hold its ground.
Also read: Tesla Model Y L deliveries begin in India, prices start at Rs 61.99 lakh
