The next-generation 2027 Kia Sonet has been caught testing again, and even under heavy camouflage, the compact SUV is dropping big hints about its 2027 makeover. While the current Sonet is still a strong seller, this upcoming second-generation model looks set to address some long-standing wishes — more rear-seat space, a tougher safety package and, later, a fuel-sipping strong-hybrid heart.
2027 Kia Sonet: Key highlights from the latest spy shots
- Fresh front styling inspired by the bigger new Seltos
- Likely shift to the K1 platform for improved cabin space
- Target of a 5-star Bharat NCAP safety rating
- Same petrol and diesel engines at launch; strong hybrid expected around 2028-2029
- Redesigned dashboard with larger screens
Also Read – Tata Motors CV Q4 Results 2026: Profit Up 35%, ₹4 Dividend, Stock Falls
A Seltos-inspired face and Venue-like eyes
Even through the swirls of camouflage, the new 2027 Kia Sonet face looks visibly different. The front fascia borrows heavily from Kia’s newer design language, with a noticeably wider grille stretching across the nose and a smoother bumper. The headlamps seem to draw inspiration from the second-generation Hyundai Venue, featuring sleek eyebrow-shaped LED daytime running lamps sitting above the main units. The alloy wheels, too, wear a fresh design that’s in line with other recent Kia models.
At the back, the test mule reveals a new LED tail-light signature. A sunroof is clearly visible, but it’s still not clear whether Kia will plump for a panoramic unit — like the one in the Syros — or stick with a single-pane setup.
More space and a 5-star safety goal
One of the quiet complaints about the current Sonet is rear-seat space, and that’s exactly what the new model aims to fix. Kia is expected to move the SUV from its existing K2 platform to the newer K1 architecture that already underpins the Syros and the latest Hyundai Venue. This change should liberate meaningful extra knee room for rear passengers.
The platform switch also puts a 5-star Bharat NCAP rating firmly within reach. Both the Venue and the Syros have already bagged a five-star score in the homegrown crash tests, and Kia will be aiming for the same with the next Sonet.
Inside, expect a completely redesigned dashboard with more premium materials and larger screens for infotainment and the digital driver’s display. One question mark hangs over Level 2 ADAS: the feature suite was recently removed from the Syros in its MY2026 update, so its inclusion in the new Sonet remains uncertain for now.
Familiar engines, with a hybrid twist coming later
Under the bonnet, the second-generation Sonet is set to carry forward the current trio of engines: the 83hp 1.2-litre naturally aspirated petrol, the peppy 120hp 1.0-litre turbo-petrol, and the torquey 116hp 1.5-litre diesel. Both manual and automatic gearbox options are expected to continue unchanged.
The real headline, however, is what follows the launch. Kia is understood to be developing a strong-hybrid version of the Sonet based on the 1.2-litre petrol motor. While this electrified powertrain won’t arrive at the time of the SUV’s 2027 debut, it’s expected to join the line-up later, likely around 2028 or 2029. Technical details of the strong-hybrid system are still under wraps, but it promises to put the Sonet squarely in the ring with upcoming electrified compact SUVs.
With its sharper looks, roomier cabin, top-drawer safety ambitions and the promise of a hybrid future, the next-generation 2027 Kia Sonet is shaping up to be a thoroughly evolved package. For now, the spy shots give us a tempting early glimpse — but the real countdown to 2027 has just begun.
Also Read – GM Do Not Drive Recall 2026: 66 SUVs and Pickups at Risk of Wheel Lock-Up Over a Missing Tube
Rohit is the visionary behind CarBikeJunction. With over a decade of experience in automotive journalism and a deep love for mechanical engineering, he ensures that every piece of content that goes live meets the highest standards of quality and accuracy. As Editor-in-Chief, he oversees the editorial direction of the website and is often found test-driving the toughest SUVs or analyzing market trends. His leadership is the driving force behind our platform.
