Two Upcoming Kia Compact SUVs in 2026-27 - Syros EV and New Sonet

The Korean automaker, Kia is preparing to launch multiple new SUVs in the Indian market. The company has confirmed that the Sorento Hybrid and Carnival Hybrid will arrive in our market by 2030. Moreover, a brand new electric compact SUV will be launched before the end of this year. The big update is that the company will introduce the next-generation of the Kia Sonet in the country. 

Kia Syros EV

Kia will launch an electric version of the Syros compact SUV in India in 2026. It is expected to be launched by July 2026; however, Kia is yet to officially reveal the launch details. The SUV has already been caught testing in India. It will be based on the sae K1 architecture that also underpins the Hyundai Inster EV on sale in select international markets. It is likely to use the same 42kWh and 49kWh battery packs that powers the Inster EV. 

The Inster EV with 42kWh and 49kWh battery packs offer a WLTP range of 300km and 355km, respectively, in a single charge. The Kia Syros EV SUV is estimated to be priced around Rs 14 lakh to Rs 18 lakh. It will take on the likes of the  MG Windsor EV, Tata Nexon EV and the Mahindra XUV 3XO EV. The spy images reveal that the electric SUV will look similar to the regular model, except for the few EV-specific changes. It will have blanked-off front profile, NEO or Lime Green colour brake callipers and front-fender mounted charging port.

Next-gen Kia Sonet

First launched in 2020, the Kia Sonet has been one of the best-sellers for the Korean brand in the Indian market. Kia has officially announced to launch the next-generation Sonet compact SUV in 2027. Codenamed QY2E, the new Sonet is expected to receive comprehensive design upgrades and all-new cabin with longer list of features along with a new architecture and powertrains. 

The next Sonet will be based on the K1 platform that underpins the Kia Syros. This architecture will help Kia to address issue related to the limited rear seat space. It will provide an additional 20mm longer wheelbase compared to the existing model. The engine options remain the same, including a 1.2L NA petrol, a 1.0L turbo petrol and 1.5L diesel. 

The big news is that Kia is also developing a strong hybrid engine for the next-gen Sonet. It is reported that the Sonet hybrid will be launched by 2028-29. However, specifications details are yet to be revealed.