Kia Syros: Kia Syros The Indian SUV space is on a roll and reports of Kia making an entry are getting louder and louder in the industry.
Positioned to sit below the Seltos and above the Sonet, the Syros is Kia’s innovative new model targeting young, design-driven consumers in search of a stylish and compelling premium compact SUV that’s great value too.
But is it worth the hype or just another pretty face in an already crowded category? Let’s take a look at what makes this new SUV tick.
A Fresh Take on Design
The very first look at the Syros and you’re bound to be struck by its extremely stylish design. It’s unmistakably Kia — Just look at that signature Tiger Nose grille up front, complete with sleek LED DRLs; it looks bang up front with a confident face. But it’s more than a look.
Meanwhile, Kia has added coupe-like roof-lines to contrast with its aggressive body cladding, sculpted bumpers and sharp dual-tone alloys.
In a category usually jammed with cookie-cutter designs, the Syros adds a welcome breath of fresh air. It shouts urban charm yet has a rough undertone which whispers about adventure.
Interior Comfort, Clouded with Technology
Step inside, and the Syros doesn’t disappoint. Kia’s aces at creating a cushy cabin are pretty good, and the Syros looks to be carrying that torch forward.
Look for a dual-screen setup — a digital driver display that complements a large infotainment touchscreen featuring wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Soft-touch materials, mood lighting and a neatly arranged centre console make it feel higher-grade than class standard.
Passenger comfort looks fairly sorted as well. With more legroom (now class-leading), rear AC vents and a flat-ish floor, three adults at the back won’t be shoulder-rubbing each other instantly.
Kia could also included niceties such as sunroof, ventilated seats, wireless charger, and 360-degree camera, setting the standard for the segment.
Under the Hood: What Can We Expect?
Official engine specifications are still to be revealed but industry insiders have hinted that the Syros could raid Kia’s current range for its motive power.
That’s a 1.2-litre naturally aspirated petrol unit, with potentially a 1.0-litre turbo petrol for those after a bit more poke. The transmission list is expected to have manual and iMT (clutchless manual) in addition to a DCT for the turbo.
It’s not likely to be a tremendous performer as such, but for the day-to-day in the city and occasional highway strafing, the Syros looks to provide a nice and refined approach.
Kia’s units are usually quite smooth, and fuel efficiency will likely be competitive — something that’s especially important when petrol is constantly on the rise.
Safety First
Kia has been playing to win on the safety front, and the Syros could follow suit. Based on the price, we can expect multiple airbags, ABS with EBD, ESC, hill assist and a high strength body structure.
Should Kia offer some form of light ADAS such as lane-keeping assist, the Syros might easily be the standout in its class.
Pros and Cons at a Glance
Pros:
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Attention-grabbing, premium look and feel
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Cabin filled with tech; segment first features
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Numerous powertrain selections (hopefully)
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Solid service network and brand trust of Kia
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Projected low pricing We know OnePlus to be an aggressive brand when it comes to pricing.
Cons:
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No diesel (according to current leaks)
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Taller passengers could find the rear a little tight on room
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Performance is nothing to brag about to enthusiasts
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Kia has been in prior hot water over DCTs
Kia Syros: Final Thoughts
If Kia hits it just right — particularly on the price point — the Syros may well be the next big thing in India’s compact SUV space.
It’s good-looking, feature packed and has the backing of a brand that in record time has established trust among Indian buyers.
All of that goes down so smoothly that enthusiasts will inevitably want even more power, and some will long for a diesel.
But for your average urban buyer who is looking for an all-rounder, stand-out SUV with the toss-ins of all the latest bells and whistles and everyday practicality, the Syros might just hit the sweet spot.
Now all eyes are on the launch date and the pricing. The competition should certainly be afraid. The stirrings have begun in Kia Syros.