Hyundai Motor Group is gearing up to introduce new versions of two of its stalwart products in India – the Kia Sonet and the Hyundai Creta. The 2027 upgrades for both the cars have now been spotted testing in Manali together. The sighting further confirms that both the cars are closer to getting their newer models than we may have thought. The Kia Sonet is a popular sub 4-meter SUV while the Hyundai Creta has for long been the best-selling SUV in India.
Given the popularity both these cars share, there is a massive set of people that will be excited to know what is coming in the next iterations of their favourite two cars from Hyundai and/ or Kia.
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Next-Gen Kia Sonet: What We Know So Far
The Kia Sonet test mule spotted in Manali appears to be the same QY2E development prototype that was first caught on camera earlier as well, though the latest images reveal additional details, particularly around the rear lighting setup.
Despite being wrapped in heavy camouflage, the new Sonet’s rear end shows vertically-oriented LED tail lamp elements connected by a full-width light bar running across the tailgate, something similar to the new Kia Seltos. The lighting signature appears noticeably more sophisticated than what is currently offered and is in line with Kia’s latest global design language being rolled out across its newer international models.
The overall silhouette of the new Sonet retains its upright SUV stance, but the rear section looks more squared-off than before. A flatter roofline and a more vertical tailgate are visible, changes that are likely to improve both interior headroom and boot space.
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On the platform front, the new Sonet is expected to move to Kia’s newer K1 architecture, the same platform that currently underpins the Kia Syros. This shift is anticipated to bring improvements in structural rigidity, packaging efficiency, and overall safety performance. A stronger result in Bharat NCAP crash tests is also expected as a result of this platform upgrade.
In terms of features, the next-gen Sonet is likely to come with larger infotainment and instrument displays, an updated ADAS suite, enhanced connected car functionality, and an expanded OTA update capability.
Engine options are expected to carry over from the current generation, with the 1.2-litre naturally aspirated petrol, 1.0-litre turbocharged petrol, and 1.5-litre diesel all likely to continue. The next-gen Sonet is expected to reach Indian showrooms sometime in 2027.
Third-Gen Hyundai Creta: Bigger, Smarter, and Possibly Hybrid
The new Hyundai Creta spotted alongside the Sonet has already been seen testing on multiple occasions both in India and internationally, and the Manali sighting adds to the growing body of evidence that the car is approaching the final stages of development.
The test vehicle continues to wear full camouflage, but several details are discernible. The new Creta appears to adopt a boxier, more upright stance compared to the current model, with larger overall proportions. The new Creta is expected to grow by approximately 100 mm in length over the existing car, making it a noticeably larger SUV when it arrives.
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One of the most significant upgrades on the new Creta will be the introduction of Hyundai’s next-generation Pleos Connect infotainment system. Earlier spy shots had already revealed a large centrally-mounted display that will replace the conventional dual-screen layout currently seen across Hyundai’s India lineup.
The new Creta is also expected to introduce a hybrid powertrain option for the Indian market for the first time — a significant addition given the growing consumer interest in fuel-efficient alternatives. Beyond the hybrid option, the new Creta is anticipated to offer a more advanced Level 2+ ADAS package, possible all-wheel drive variants, and enhanced software-defined vehicle capabilities through Hyundai’s Pleos architecture.
Launch Timeline
Of the two, the new Hyundai Creta is the one expected to arrive first, with a debut possible later in 2026. The next-generation Kia Sonet, on the other hand, is pegged for a 2027 launch. With both cars now undergoing simultaneous high-altitude testing, Hyundai Motor Group appears to be keeping development timelines tightly on track for both models ahead of their respective Indian introductions.
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