Kia Unveils the All-New Syros SUV in India: A Tech-Packed Urban Crossover
Kia has officially introduced the Syros, its latest urban SUV, in India. This highly anticipated model will initially launch with gasoline and diesel powertrain options, with an electric variant expected to follow. The Syros is designed to compete in the crowded sub-4m SUV market, offering a stylish design, advanced technology, and enhanced comfort.
Dimensions and exterior design
The Kia Syros measures 3,995 mm (157.3 inches) in length, 1,800 mm (70.9 inches) in width, and 1,665 mm (65.6 inches) in height, with a 2,550 mm (100.4 inches) wheelbase. While its length matches the Indian-spec Kia Sonet, its wider and taller stance sets it apart.
The boxy silhouette is enhanced by generous ground clearance and plastic cladding, giving the Syros a rugged SUV vibe. Key exterior highlights include:
- LED headlights mounted lower on the upright front fascia.
- A grille-less design with cooling handled by the lower bumper intakes.
- Swollen fenders and a strong B-pillar, reminiscent of the Hyundai Casper.
- Slim L-shaped LED taillights and a minivan-style tailgate.
Tech-Driven interior features
Inside, the Syros offers a premium cabin focused on tech and comfort. Inspired by the Kia EV3, the dashboard includes:
- A 30-inch digital cockpit with dual 12.3-inch displays and a 5-inch climate control screen.
- Sliding, reclining, and ventilating rear seats—a first in the urban SUV segment.
- A 465-liter (16.4 cubic feet) boot capacity for ample storage.
Premium features include a panoramic sunroof, 64-color ambient lighting, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a wireless charging pad, and an 8-speaker Harman Kardon sound system. Safety is prioritized with six airbags and an optional Level 2 ADAS suite offering 16 advanced driver assistance features.
Powertrain and performance
Built on Kia’s reinforced K1 platform, the Syros promises superior ride quality. At launch, it will be offered with:
- A 1.0-liter turbocharged gasoline engine producing 118 hp (120 PS) and 172 Nm of torque.
- A 1.5-liter diesel engine delivering 114 hp (116 PS) and 250 Nm of torque.
Both powertrains are available with manual or automatic transmissions, driving the front wheels. An all-electric variant is expected to join the lineup in the near future, making the Syros a versatile option for different needs.
Pricing, availability, and competition
Kia will start accepting pre-orders for the Syros in January 2025, with pricing to be announced in February. Positioned slightly above the Kia Sonet, it aims to rival the Hyundai Venue, Tata Nexon, Maruti Suzuki Brezza, Mahindra XUV 300, and Skoda Kushaq. High-spec trims may even compete with models in the larger Seltos segment due to their extensive features.
While Kia has not confirmed plans for global availability, the Syros could potentially enter markets like South America and Europe, where compact SUVs are highly sought after.
Conclusion
The Kia Syros is poised to shake up the urban SUV segment with its blend of style, technology, and performance. Stay tuned for updates and visit the Kia India official website for more details.
