The Kia Syros emerges as a compact SUV that claims to blend futuristic design, advanced technology, and versatile performance. Marketed as an “evolved SUV,” it introduces several segment first features designed to cater to urban drivers and families, is what Kia say. Here’s an in-depth look at the Kia Syros, including its strengths and areas that could leave potential buyers wanting more.
The Syros adopts Kia’s latest design language, which emphasizes bold aesthetics and modern elements. While I’ve heard some people complain saying it looks like a jacked up Wagon R, and some calling it a mini defender, and some even saying it’s so boxy that it resembles a refrigerator on wheels, one thing is certain, it’s quite a polarising design, you either hate or love it.
Key Exterior Highlights Include:
Kia offers two engine options for the Syros, catering to varied driving preferences:
The petrol variants’ performance figures should align with urban driving needs, while the diesel option offers stronger low-end torque, suitable for highway cruising. However, both options are front-wheel-drive only.
Inside, the Syros prioritizes technology, with good quality hard plastics dominating the dashboard.
While the interior is loaded with features, the lower variants do not get automatic climate control and miss out on a lot of the features like the 360-degree camera. The 465-liter boot space and 45-liter fuel tank seems sufficient enough, nothing out of the ordinary. It also features an Air filter at the rear that also showcases the AQI, again being a segment first feature. Only the driver gets a power adjustable seat, whereas the rest of the seats are manually adjustable.
While the Kia Syros performs well in terms of power delivery and overall handling, there are some drawbacks. Body roll is pretty noticeable during sharp cornering. The steering, although it lacks significant feel, does weigh up adequately at higher speeds. The suspension is tuned on the stiffer side, which aids handling but may result in a less comfortable ride over rough patches.
In terms of performance, the manual transmission offers an engaging driving experience and stands out as a highlight. However, when compared to rivals like the Skoda Kylaq, the Syros lags behind in driving dynamics, particularly in terms of precision and overall road feedback.
The Syros integrates the Kia Connect 2.0 suite, which includes:
The infotainment system features a 31.24 cm HD touchscreen with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay support.
Kia has equipped the Syros with a robust safety package, including:
There seem to be sensors on every side on the car beeping to keep you aware and the 360-degree camera comes in very handy with superb quality, much better than what we saw on the Kylaq.
The Syros is available in multiple trims (HTK, HTK+, HTX, HTX+, HTX+ (O)) with increasing levels of features. Customization options include:
The Kia Syros positions itself between the Sonet and the Seltos as a tech-savvy and design-forward SUV aimed at urban families. It excels in areas like connectivity and advanced driver assistance features.
The driving dynamics of the vehicle can be considered average when compared specifically to the Kylaq, but where it truly excels in comparison to all its competitors, is in offering features typically found in higher-end segments. These features include a panoramic sunroof, rear seat ventilation, and more, elevating the overall driving experience.