Kia Syros is a sub-4m SUV with unique styling and spaciousness

The Syros will initially be available with petrol and diesel powertrains, although an electric version is expected in the future

Kia has unveiled the all-new Syros in India, becoming the latest entrant in the crowded urban SUV segment. This ICE-powered model features a modern styling language and a well-appointed cabin for its size, with a focus on technology, comfort and safety.

Syros measures 3,995 mm (157.3 inches) long, 1,800 mm (70.9 inches) wide, 1,665 mm (65.6 inches) high, and has a wheelbase of 2,550 mm (100.4 inches). The length is consistent with the India-spec Sonet, but other dimensions have increased slightly.

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The exterior design is characterized by a boxy stance, generous ground clearance and plenty of plastic cladding giving off an SUV feel. LED headlights are mounted on the upright nose, positioned lower than usual, and are combined with black accents on the short hood edge. Kia designers opted for a grilleless look, leaving cooling to the lower bumper air intakes above the aluminum skid plate.

On the sides, we find swollen fenders and strong B-pillars, reminiscent of the modern Casper and Inster. At the back, the split taillight arrangement includes slim L-shaped LED lights wrapped around the rear glass and a minivan-style tailgate.

A cabin focused on technology and comfort

Inside, the dashboard looks similar to the Kia EV3, with a 30-inch digital cockpit that includes dual 12.3-inch displays and a 5-inch climate control screen. Another highlight is the rear seats with sliding, reclining and ventilation functions, which are offered for the first time in the urban SUV segment. The boot is quite large for something under 4m, with a capacity of 465 liters (16.4 cu ft).

Equipment includes a panoramic sunroof, 64-color ambient lighting, 4-way power driver’s seat, 8-speaker Harman Kardon premium audio system, wireless charging pad and wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto connectivity. Kia also mentions “call center assisted navigation” and some connectivity features. In terms of safety, the SUV has 6 airbags and can be equipped with 16 ADAS to provide level 2 autonomous driving.

Gas and diesel powertrain options

The Kia Syros rides on the “enhanced” K1 architecture that also underpins the smaller Hyundai Exter, Casper and Inster. Despite the small footprint, the company promises “excellent ride quality” thanks to a longer wheelbase and “refined suspension.”

The Syros will be available with petrol and diesel powertrain options at launch, although a fully electric version is expected to join the range in the future.

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The turbocharged 1.0-liter petrol engine produces 118 hp (88.3 kW / 120 PS) and 172 Nm (127 lb-ft) of torque, while the 1.5-liter diesel engine produces 114 hp (85 kW / 116 PS) and 250 Nm (184 lb-ft). In both cases, power is sent to the front wheels via a manual or automatic transmission.

Competitors and Availability

Syros is scheduled to be launched in India in early 2025. Kia will start taking reservations in January, with pricing to be announced in February. Local media hints that this model will be more expensive than the Sonet and positioned closer to the larger Seltos.

Competitors of similar-sized SUVs in India include the Hyundai Venue, Tata Nexon, Maruti Suzuki Brezza, Mahindra XUV 3XO and Skoda Kylaq, among others. Nonetheless, the high-spec trims of the Syros will also compete with models in the aforementioned segment due to the generous equipment package.

While Kia didn’t detail the model’s availability elsewhere, we wouldn’t be surprised if the Syros makes its way to other markets like South America or even Europe, where small SUVs are quite popular.