Kia Syros will be positioned above the Sonet in India, deliveries start in February
Kia Syros compact SUV unveiled, making its global debut in India. The Syros, Kia’s second sub-4-metre SUV after the Sonet, addresses the latter’s limitations, particularly in rear-seat space. Drawing design inspiration from larger Kia models like the EV9, the Syros is available with petrol and diesel engine options, with an electric variant expected in the future.
Design Highlights
The Syros adopts styling cues from Kia’s EV lineup, featuring a boxy front with vertically stacked LED headlights and unique drop-down daytime running lights. The sealed nose section and contrasting silver-accented air intake add a modern touch.
Its tallboy silhouette, coupled with blacked-out A-, C- and D-pillars, provides a distinctive profile. The flush door handles and an innovative window line, resembling the Skoda Yeti, add to its character. The vehicle also features robust plastic cladding, a rear window kink and eye-catching three-petal alloy wheels (up to 17 inches). At the rear, L-shaped tail lamps wrap around the windshield and a dual-tone black and silver bumper completes the look.
Dimensions and Colour Choices
The Syros measures 3995 mm in length, 1800 mm in width and 1665 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2550 mm. These dimensions make it wider and taller than the Sonet, with a longer wheelbase for improved cabin space. The boot offers 465 litres of storage, a notable increase from the Sonet’s capacity. Kia offers the Syros in eight colour options, including Frost Blue, Intense Red and Glacier White Pearl.
Interior and Features
Inside, the Syros introduces a revamped dashboard, highlighted by dual 12.3-inch screens for the infotainment system and instrument cluster, along with a 5-inch climate control display. Together, these screens create an expansive 30-inch visual area. Additional design elements include concealed air vents, physical HVAC controls, ambient lighting and a wireless charging pad. A two-spoke steering wheel adds a contemporary feel.
The Syros comes equipped with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, over-the-air updates, ventilated seats for all passengers, a dual-pane panoramic sunroof and an 8-speaker Harman Kardon audio system. Rear seats offer reclining, sliding and split-folding functionality, while safety is enhanced by six airbags, a 360-degree camera and Level 2 ADAS.
Powertrain Options
The Syros offers two engine configurations: a 1.0-litre turbo-petrol delivering 120 HP and 172 Nm, paired with a 6-speed manual or 7-speed DCT and a 1.5-litre diesel producing 116 HP and 250 Nm, mated to a 6-speed manual or torque converter automatic. Higher trims of the automatic versions will include paddle shifters. The Syros stands out as one of the few sub-4-metre SUVs still offering a diesel option.
Trims and Pricing
The Syros will be available in six trims: HTK, HTK (O), HTK+, HTX, HTX+ and HTX+ (O). While detailed trim-specific features are yet to be disclosed, the top-tier HTX+ (O) will include the full feature set. Bookings open on 3rd January, with deliveries expected in early February. Prices will be revealed in February, with estimates suggesting a Rs. 1 lakh premium over equivalent Sonet trims, potentially overlapping with the Seltos range.
Competitors and Market Positioning
Competing with rivals such as the Hyundai Venue, Tata Nexon, Mahindra XUV300 and Maruti Brezza, along with the Skoda Kylaq, the Syros aims to stand out through its premium features and enhanced rear-seat comfort. Kia is positioning the Syros as an attractive option for buyers seeking a spacious and tech-laden compact SUV.
