New Kia Sonet Is Getting a Major Makeover

Kia India is working on a new-generation Sonet, and the upcoming sub-4-metre SUV has already started testing in India and international markets. The latest spy shots shared by Harsh VLOGS show a heavily camouflaged test vehicle undergoing high-altitude testing in the Himalayan region. Unlike a regular mid-life update, the next-generation Kia Sonet is expected to receive major changes to its design, body structure, interior and features. The new model is likely to arrive in India in 2027. Here is what we know so far.

1. Completely New Exterior Design

The new Kia Sonet is expected to get a fresh design with significant changes to its body panels. The latest test mule suggests that the SUV could feature new front and rear doors, along with a revised overall body structure. At the front, it is likely to get a redesigned grille, a new bonnet and split headlamps. The LED DRLs could be positioned above the main headlight units, giving the SUV a different look from the current model. The test vehicle also appears to feature new ORVMs and newly designed alloy wheels, which could measure 17 or 18 inches.

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2. Updated Rear Profile and Lighting

The rear section is also expected to receive a complete makeover. The new Sonet could get a different LED tail-lamp design, which does not appear to follow the connected-lighting layout seen on many recent SUVs. The high-mounted stop lamp also looks wider than the unit on the current model. Kia is likely to introduce a redesigned tailgate and rear bumper to complete the updated look.

3. More Premium Cabin With Dual Screens

The interior is expected to receive one of the biggest upgrades. The next-generation Sonet could feature a completely redesigned dashboard with a dual 12.3-inch screen layout. The cabin may also get new materials, updated upholstery and a revised centre console. These changes could give the SUV a more premium feel and improve its overall cabin experience.

4. More Comfort and Technology Features

Kia could add several new features to make the upcoming Sonet more competitive. Expected equipment includes front and rear ventilated seats, a powered driver's seat, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, a wireless charger and an auto-dimming IRVM. Other possible features include a premium audio system, advanced connected-car technology, sliding and reclining rear seats and a panoramic sunroof. The test mule also appears to feature a 360-degree camera setup and a dedicated ADAS camera. This raises the possibility of Level 2 ADAS, similar to what is offered on the latest Hyundai Venue.

5. Existing Petrol and Diesel Engines Likely to Continue

The next-generation Kia Sonet is expected to retain the current engine options. These include a 1.2-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine, a 1.0-litre three-cylinder turbo-petrol engine and a 1.5-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel unit. Manual and automatic gearbox options are also likely to continue, depending on the engine variant. Kia may make some updates to improve efficiency and meet future emission standards, although official powertrain details are not available yet.

New Kia Sonet Launch Timeline

The new-generation Kia Sonet is expected to launch in India sometime in 2027. It will continue to compete in the sub-4-metre SUV segment against the Hyundai Venue, Tata Nexon, Maruti Suzuki Brezza and Mahindra XUV 3XO. With a completely new design, a more premium cabin, additional comfort features and the possibility of Level 2 ADAS, the upcoming Sonet could be a major upgrade over the current model. Kia is yet to announce its official launch date and specifications.

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