New Kia Sonet Spied in Himalayan High‑Altitude Tests, Revealing Updated LEDs

Kia India is on the brink of launching a new Sonet in the country, and the company has begun testing the vehicle in India and abroad. Spy shots from Harsh VLOGS show a sub‑4‑m SUV test mule wrapped in fabric‑type camouflage, racing up the Himalayan slopes in high‑altitude conditions ahead of its launch.

The images reveal a generational overhaul rather than a simple facelift: the sheet metal, platform and core structure have been re‑engineered, and the doors are entirely new and angular, with revised front and rear panels. The front fascia is fully refreshed, featuring a split‑LED headlight layout—actual headlamps below and LED daytime running lights above.

The clamshell bonnet and 17‑ or 18‑inch wheels give the car a new stance, while the side mirrors have been redesigned. The vehicle is equipped with front and rear parking sensors, a 360‑degree camera system and a dedicated ADAS camera, hinting at Level‑2 driver assistance similar to the new Venue.

At the rear, a completely new tail‑light signature and a wider high‑mount stop light are visible. Inside, a dual 12.3‑inch screen dashboard is expected, along with new materials and a refreshed layout.

The next‑gen Sonet could offer front and rear ventilated seats, advanced telematics, a powered driver seat, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, a wireless charger, auto‑dimming IRVMs, sliding and reclining rear seats, a premium audio system and possibly a panoramic sunroof. Powertrain options are likely to mirror the current model: a 1.2‑liter 4‑cylinder naturally aspirated petrol, a 1.0‑liter 3‑cylinder turbo‑petrol and a 1.5‑liter 4‑cylinder turbo‑diesel, each available with manual or automatic gearboxes. The launch is expected in 2027.