Second-generation Kia Sonet spied in India

The second-generation Kia Sonet has been spotted testing on Indian roads. The test mules were seen with heavy camouflage, even doing high-altitude runs in Manali. This is a major generation shift for the sub-compact SUV. The current Sonet first came out in 2020. The new model is expected to launch in 2027.

Let us first talk about the platform and cabin upgrades. The new Sonet will move from the old K2 architecture to the newer K1 platform. This is the same platform that will be used for the upcoming Kia Syros and Hyundai Venue. The wheelbase is expected to grow by about 20 mm. That may not sound like much, but it will fix the tight rear-seat legroom problem of the current generation. So passengers in the back will be more comfortable. The new platform is also designed to be stronger and safer. Kia is aiming for a 5-star Bharat NCAP safety rating. So safety will be a big focus.

Now let us look at the exterior design. The new Sonet will have an upright, boxier stance. The bonnet will have flatter creases. The design will take inspiration from the larger Seltos. The front will have a new split-style headlamp setup. The LED daytime running lights will be shaped like boomerangs or eyebrows. At the rear, there will be slimmer, vertically aligned LED taillights. The tailgate will be wider and squarer. The test mules were seen running on older 17-inch alloy wheels borrowed from the Seltos. So the final production wheels may be different.

Next, let us step inside the cabin. The dashboard will feature a large curved screen. This is expected to house dual 12.3-inch screens. One screen will be for the infotainment system, and the other will be for the digital driver’s cluster. Early sightings also report features like a panoramic sunroof and a 360-degree camera. The new electrical platform will support Level-2 ADAS, which is advanced driver assistance. It will also allow over-the-air updates. So the car’s software can be updated without visiting a dealership.

Finally, let us talk about the powertrains. The new Sonet will initially carry forward the same three engines as the current model. These are a 1.2-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine with 83 hp, a 1.0-litre turbo-petrol with 120 hp, and a 1.5-litre diesel with 116 hp. The gearbox options will remain flexible. You can choose from manual, iMT, torque converter automatic, and DCT. So there will be something for everyone. But there is also exciting news for the future. Kia is actively developing a 1.2-litre strong-hybrid petrol engine. This is expected to arrive around 2028 or 2029. So a hybrid Sonet may come a couple of years after the main launch.

The second-generation Kia Sonet will be a big step forward. It will have a new platform, more rear legroom, and better safety. The design will be inspired by the Seltos. The interior will have large dual screens and premium features like a panoramic sunroof. The engines will remain the same for now, but a hybrid is coming later. The launch is expected in 2027. So we still have some time to wait.