These 2 Upcoming Compact-SUVs Could Change Everything: Check Here

The compact SUV segment has become one of the most competitive spaces in the Indian vehicle market, with automakers always offering new features, greater safety, and updated technology to attract buyers. But now, two upcoming models could shake up the segment in a much bigger way. The Next-Gen Kia Sonet and the Maruti Suzuki Brezza facelift are expected to bring major upgrades that go beyond a regular mid-life update. From hybrid technology and ADAS to improved practicality and turbo-petrol power mill, the next-gen Kia Sonet and Brezza facelift could change what buyers expect from compact SUVs in India. Here's a closer look at what both these SUVs could bring to the table.

Next-Gen Kia Sonet

Kia India appears to be preparing a major generational update for the Kia Sonet, one that could potentially create an unexpected challenge within the brand's own lineup. While the current Kia Sonet and Syros already sit close to each other in terms of pricing and features, the Next-Gen Kia Sonet is expected to move further upmarket and could start overlapping with the Syros in overall appeal.

One of the biggest updates for the Next-Gen Kia Sonet is likely to be its shift to Kia's newer modular K1 platform, which also underpins the Syros. This new architecture could allow Kia to slightly increase the dimensions of the Sonet, while also improving cabin room and rear-seat comfort, areas where the current Kia Sonet feels slightly behind some rivals. The platform is also expected to bring better structural rigidity and support for advanced safety systems, which could improve both crash protection and ride quality.

Next-Gen Kia Sonet
Photo Credit: autojournal_India

The Next-Gen Kia Sonet is also expected to receive several premium upgrades. Reports suggest the compact SUV could get larger screens, a more advanced connected car suite, improved NVH insulation, Level 2 ADAS, and a more premium cabin layout. If Kia manages to package these features aggressively, the Next-Gen Kia Sonet could become one of the most feature-loaded compact SUVs in the segment.

The new platform could also help improve rear-seat space, which has been one of the weaker points of the outgoing Kia Sonet. Kia is also likely to target a 5-star Bharat NCAP safety rating for the Next-Gen Kia Sonet, especially since the Venue and Syros have already achieved strong safety credentials.

Interestingly, reports also suggest Kia is working on a strong-hybrid version of the Kia Sonet based on a 1.2-litre petrol engine. While this hybrid setup is not expected at launch, it could arrive later around 2028 or 2029. Technical details are still under wraps for now.

Maruti Suzuki Brezza Facelift

The Maruti Suzuki Brezza facelift is also expected to bring some major changes that could strengthen its position in the compact SUV segment. One of the biggest talking points is the possible introduction of Maruti's 1.0-litre Boosterjet turbo-petrol engine, currently seen on the Fronx. The Brezza facelift is also expected to get the new 6-speed manual gearbox spotted in earlier test mules. Traditionally, Maruti Suzuki has used 5-speed manual gearboxes across most of its lineup, ranging from the 1.0-litre K10 to the 1.5-litre K15 engines. The addition of a 6-speed manual could improve both highway efficiency and performance, while also helping Maruti prepare for upcoming CAFE 3 emission and fuel-efficiency norms expected in 2027.

Maruti Suzuki Brezza Facelift
Photo Credit: rushlane

If introduced, the Brezza facelift would finally get a turbo-petrol option, something that has been missing from the SUV for years. A smaller turbo-petrol engine could also help certain Brezza variants qualify for the lower 18 percent GST bracket applicable to sub-4-metre petrol vehicles with engines below 1.2 litres. Currently, the Brezza uses a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine, which falls under the higher taxation slab.

Also Read: CNG Car Owners To Bear Increased Running Cost, Now Priced At Rs 80.09 Per KG

Another important update for the Brezza facelift is expected to be the new underbody-mounted CNG setup planned for 2026. Existing Brezza CNG owners currently have to compromise on boot space because of the large tank placement. With the underfloor setup, similar to the Grand Vitara, the Brezza facelift could offer both lower running costs and better practicality at the same time.

Also Read: Ferrari HC25 Revealed As One-Off F8 Spider-Based Supercar

Recent spy shots of the Brezza facelift have also hinted at the possibility of ADAS features. A radar module appears to be placed in the centre of the grille, suggesting Maruti Suzuki could finally introduce advanced driver assistance systems on the Brezza.

Maruti Suzuki Brezza

Inside the cabin, the Brezza facelift is expected to receive a revised dashboard layout along with a larger 10.1-inch infotainment touchscreen, replacing the current 9-inch unit. With these updates, the Brezza facelift could become a much stronger rival in the compact SUV segment.