Kia India has started testing the next-generation Sonet compact SUV. Internally codenamed QY2E, the upcoming Sonet is expected to make its market debut in 2027 and will bring significant upgrades in terms of platform, design, technology and safety. The latest spy shots are credited to Trakin Auto.
New Design Taking Shape
While camouflage hides most of the bodywork, the overall silhouette suggests that Kia will retain the Sonet’s upright SUV stance. The test mule appears to feature a flatter roofline, pronounced wheel arches and a more squared-off rear profile.
The front and rear lighting elements remain concealed, but production-spec models are expected to adopt Kia’s latest global design language with vertically oriented lighting signatures and a more premium appearance. The rear section appears more upright than before, which could help improve luggage capacity and rear-seat headroom.
Based On New K1 Platform
One of the biggest changes for the next-generation Sonet will be its migration to Kia’s newer K1 platform. The same architecture already underpins Syros and is expected to deliver improvements in structural rigidity, safety and overall packaging.
This platform shift could allow Kia to introduce more advanced connected car technologies, enhanced OTA update capabilities and improved electronic architecture. Safety is also likely to see a major boost, with expectations of a stronger Bharat NCAP performance. The Syros, which is based on the same platform, has already achieved a 5-star Bharat NCAP rating.
The new architecture may also allow Kia to slightly increase wheelbase length, resulting in better rear-seat comfort and improved cabin space without significantly altering the compact SUV’s sub-4-metre footprint.
Feature List Set To Expand
Kia has traditionally positioned Sonet as one of the most feature-loaded offerings in its segment, and the next-generation model is expected to continue that trend. Expected upgrades include larger infotainment and digital instrument displays, a redesigned dashboard layout, enhanced connected car functions and a more sophisticated user interface.
The SUV is also likely to receive an upgraded ADAS package, potentially moving beyond the current Level 1 system offered on the existing model. Other expected features include a panoramic display setup, ventilated seats, a 360-degree camera and additional convenience technologies aimed at strengthening Sonet’s appeal against newer rivals.
Engine Options Likely To Continue
Under the hood, the next-generation Sonet is expected to retain Kia’s existing powertrain lineup at launch. This could include the 1.2-litre naturally aspirated petrol, 1.0-litre turbo petrol and 1.5-litre diesel engines, paired with a range of manual and automatic transmission options.
In the longer term, Kia is also believed to be evaluating strong-hybrid technology for the Sonet. While such a version is unlikely to be available at launch, it could join the lineup later in the product lifecycle as the company expands its electrified portfolio in India. Once launched, the new-generation Sonet will continue competing in the highly contested sub-4-metre SUV segment, taking on rivals such as Tata Nexon, Maruti Brezza, Mahindra XUV 3XO, Hyundai Venue etc.