Kia has unveiled its latest offering for the Indian market, the Kia Syros compact SUV. Positioned above the Sonet, the Syros aims to address the growing demand for spacious and feature-rich compact SUVs. With its distinctive design, advanced technology, and a range of powertrain options, the Syros is poised to make a significant impact in this competitive segment.
Design that Turns Heads
The Syros draws inspiration from Kia’s electric vehicle lineup, featuring a bold and boxy front end with vertically stacked LED headlights and unique drop-down daytime running lights. The sealed nose section and contrasting silver accents add a touch of modernity.
Its tallboy silhouette, combined with blacked-out pillars, creates a distinctive profile. Flush door handles and an innovative window line, reminiscent of the Skoda Yeti, further enhance its character. Robust plastic cladding, a rear window kink, and stylish alloy wheels complete the rugged yet sophisticated look.
Spacious and Feature-Rich Interior
The Syros boasts a revamped interior with a focus on technology and comfort. Dual 12.3-inch screens for the infotainment system and instrument cluster, along with a 5-inch climate control display, create a modern and expansive cockpit. Concealed air vents, physical HVAC controls, ambient lighting, and a wireless charging pad add to the premium feel.
The Syros comes loaded with features, including 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 passengers enjoy reclining, sliding, and split-folding seats, while safety is prioritized with six airbags, a 360-degree camera, and Level 2 ADAS features.
Power and Efficiency
Kia offers the Syros with two engine options: a 1.0-liter turbo-petrol delivering 120 HP and a 1.5-liter diesel producing 116 HP. Both engines come with a choice of manual or automatic transmissions, with paddle shifters available on higher trims of the automatic versions. The Syros stands out as one of the few sub-4-meter SUVs still offering a diesel option, catering to a wider range of customer preferences.
Pricing and Availability
The Syros will be available in six trim levels, with bookings commencing on January 3rd and deliveries expected to start in early February. Pricing will be announced in February, with estimates suggesting a slight premium over the equivalent Sonet trims.
Competition and Market Positioning
The Syros enters a competitive landscape, facing rivals like the Hyundai Venue, Tata Nexon, Mahindra XUV300, Maruti Brezza, and Skoda Kushaq. However, with its distinctive design, spacious interior, premium features, and diverse powertrain options, the Syros is well-equipped to carve out its own niche in the market.
Kia is confident that the Syros will appeal to buyers seeking a compact SUV that offers a blend of style, technology, and practicality. With its global debut in India, the Syros represents Kia’s commitment to the Indian market and its focus on delivering innovative and appealing vehicles to meet the evolving needs of Indian consumers.