Kia India Testing Sonet-Like Electric SUV - Tata Nexon EV Rival?

Kia Motors India is currently selling two electric SUVs - the Kia EV6 and EV9 in our market. Both models are launched as a CKD or CBU models, attracting higher import duties. The Korean brand is all set to enter the mass-market EV category and is working on multiple India-centric electric cars. Kia Carens based electric MPV is scheduled to be launched sometime in 2025. 

Moreover, the company is developing a new compact SUV, rumoured to be called the Kia Syros, which will be offered with both ICE and electric powertrains. In fact, Syros could be the first Kia in our market to feature a hybrid powertrain. Interestingly, Kia Motors has started testing a Sonet-like electric SUV on the Indian roads. 

While the spotted model is covered heavily in thick cloth, the overall silhouette and size suggests that it could be the Kia Sonet based EV. The spotted model has no tail pipes, which further confirms that Kia could be testing an all-new EV using Sonet body. The electric SUV is expected to be launched in our market by mid-2025. 

The Kia Sonet EV will rival the likes of the Tata Nexon EV, MG Windsor EV, Mahindra XUV400 and others in the segment. The electric SUV will be based on the heavily modified K1 platform. It is likely to get a battery pack of around 40-45kWh with a front-axle-mounted electric motor. The electric SUV is expected to offer an electric range of up to 400km on a single charge. 

The Kia electric SUV is likely to offer more features than the ICE-powered Sonet. It is expected to get a panoramic sunroof, climate control, ventilated & powered front seats, Bose audio system, drive modes and leatherette seats. The SUV could also receive Level 2 ADAS, front parking sensors, automatic wipers and others. 

Also See - AWD Tata Sierra, Harrier EVs to Get Jaguar-Like Drive Mode Selector

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