GaadiWaadi –
All-new Hyundai Venue’s corporate cousin being tested on the public roads in India ahead of its launch next year
Introduced in September 2020, the Kia Sonet was the brand’s first India-specific model, designed to compete in the popular compact SUV segment. After five years and more than 5 lakh units sold, Kia has started working on a second-generation model to replace it next year.
Codenamed ‘Kia QY2E’, the next-gen Kia Sonet was spied for the first time recently. While first test mule sightings of future Hyundais and Kias initially emerge in South Korea, this one has appeared directly on Indian roads. Despite the heavy camouflage, it’s clear that the company is ready with the final design and is testing the prototypes in the production body.
Transitioning into its second generation, the Kia Sonet would adopt a more progressive design. At the front, it will likely feature a noticeably wider radiator grille positioned lower than now, around the centre. Another major design change expected is split headlamps, aimed at giving the vehicle a more aggressive look. Needless to say, the bumper and lower air intake would also be completely new.
On the sides, Kia appears to have raised the beltline, which would give the Sonet a more dynamic appearance. New two-tone 16-inch alloy wheels with a geometric pattern design similar to the 17-inch units of the latest Seltos would be another upgrade. At the rear, the connected combination lamps, tailgate, and bumper should feature a completely new design.
While the current Sonet features a single-pane sunroof, the next-gen Sonet should be offered with a panoramic sunroof. Inside, everything from the dashboard to the steering wheel, centre console, and door panels will likely have a completely new look. Kia may offer a slim 9.9-inch digital instrument cluster and a 12.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system, both running Pleos Connect, a reskinned version of Android Automotive OS. Level 2 advanced driver assistance systems should considerably improve safety.
The next-gen Kia Sonet should be based on the K1 platform that underpins the Syros. No new engines or transmissions are likely to be offered at launch. Kia has confirmed that it will introduce a hybrid variant of the Sonet by 2029, and we expect 2028 to be that year. The company will likely launch the ICE next-gen Sonet in the second quarter of 2027.
The post Next-Gen Kia Sonet Spotted For The First Time In India appeared first on Gaadiwaadi.com – Latest Car & Bike News by Team GaadiWaadi.