All New Kia Sonet Spied Testing; Showing Bigger and Boxier Profile

Published ByAmit Sharma

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2026-06-12

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2027 Kia Sonet to be based on new K1 platform Hybrid version under development New Sonet to get boxier design

Kia India has commenced public road testing of the ground-up next-generation Kia Sonet. Internally codenamed QY2E, the heavily anticipated sub-compact SUV was spotted under heavy camouflage, signalling a massive change in structure, space, cabin technology and safety ahead of its launch in 2027.

The initial test mules reveal that Kia is addressing the current model’s negatives, including the space and small footprints, while drastically premium-sizing its bestseller to compete against the likes of the Mahindra XUV 3XO and Tata Nexon.

New K1 Platform

The biggest mechanical upgrade for the 2027 Sonet is its new, highly advanced K1 platform instead of the older K1 platform. This platform is developed with higher tensile strength steel to improve structural integrity. The Kia Syros is also built on the same K1 platform, and has received 5-star Bharat NCAP crash safety rating.

Adding to it, the K1 platform allows Kia to slightly stretch the vehicle’s wheelbase within the sub-4 meter length. The wheelbase is expected to be increased by 20mm, which will allow Kia engineers to create more space inside the cabin.

2027 Kia Sonet - Boxier Design

All New Kia Sonet Rear Spied

While the SUV is heavily camouflaged, its silhouette reveals a more mature, upright profile. The test mule reveals a noticeable roofline and a vertical, squared-off tailgate profile. This design suggests that the both rear-row headroom and cargo trunk capacity will be improved.

Similar to the Kia EV9 and Carnival, the 2027 Kia Sonet is likely to adopt signature vertical LED headlamps and tail lamp clusters. The existing model gets sleek horizontal layouts.

Interiors - Massive Changes Expected

The next-gen Kia Sonet is expected to receive the premium tech layouts inspired by the new Kia Seltos and Syros. It will be fitted with a large, panoramic dual-screen display for infotainment system and digital instrument cluster. It will also receive new electronic architecture, enabling seamless OTA updates and an advanced LEVEL 2 ADAS tech. The high-end variants will get a 360-degree surround view camera, ventilated front seats, new premium music system, powered driver’s seat and panoramic sunroof.

What’s Under the Hood?

The new Kia Sonet is expected to retain the existing engine options, including an 83bhp, 1.2L NA petrol, a 120hp, 1.0L 3-cylinder, turbo petrol, and a 116hp, 1.5L turbo diesel. Previous media reports claim that Kia is also developing a strong hybrid engine for the Sonet, which is likely to arrive sometime in 2028.

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Amit Sharma

Sub-Editor

Amit is responsible for the content creation on the Carlelo website with an objective to serve the online visitors to the best of his abilities. He has a vast experience of over 12 years in motoring journalism and has worked with multiple automotive brands including CarDekho, IndiaCarNews and Zee Network (India.com Auto)

Education: B-Tech in Information Technology (Rajasthan Technical University)

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