Kia Syros Test Drive Review
Kia Syros Test Drive Review

Kia Syros Test Drive Review

28/01/2025
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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.

Exterior Design

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:

  • Lighting: Ice Cube MFR LED headlamps combined with Starmap LED DRLs and tail lamps provide a futuristic lighting signature.
  • Wheels: The SUV offers up to 17” crystal cut alloy wheels (R17 – 43.66 cm) on select trims, lending a sporty appearance. However, lower trims make do with smaller 15” steel wheels, which could seem underwhelming given the competition.
  • Additional Design Details: Features like the Digital Tiger Face grille, shark fin antenna, integrated spoiler, and streamline door handles add a touch of sophistication. While these elements create a modern profile, the Syros’ compact dimensions (3995 mm length, 1805 mm width) might somewhat limit its appeal.

Performance And Powertrain

Kia offers two engine options for the Syros, catering to varied driving preferences:

  1. Smartstream G1.0 T-GDi (Petrol)
    • Power: 88.3 kW @ 6000 RPM
    • Torque: 172 NM @ 1500-4000 RPM
    • Transmission: 6-speed manual or 7-speed dual-clutch automatic (DCT)
  2. 1.5 L CRDi VGT (Diesel)
    • Power: 85 kW @ 4000 rpm
    • Torque: 250 Nm @ 1500-2750 rpm
    • Transmission: 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic

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.

Braking And Suspension

  • Automatic variants feature disc brakes on all wheels, whereas manual trims rely on front disc and rear drum brakes.
  • The suspension setup—McPherson struts in the front and a torsion beam axle in the rear—is standard for this segment but might fall short in delivering premium ride comfort on uneven surfaces. It did feel a bit on the stiffer side when we drove it.

Interior And Comfort

Inside, the Syros prioritizes technology, with good quality hard plastics dominating the dashboard.

  • Displays and Lighting: The Trinity Panoramic Display integrates the instrument cluster and infotainment system for a cohesive look, complemented by 64-color ambient mood lighting.
  • Comfort Features: The rear seats offer ventilation, 45 degree recline angle, and slide functions. Additionally, a dual-pane panoramic sunroof, most of these being segment first features.
  • Materials: Semi-leatherette seats and dual-tone interior themes vary across trims, but lower trims may feel less premium compared to competitors in the same price range.

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.

Driving Dynamics

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.

Technology And Connectivity

The Syros integrates the Kia Connect 2.0 suite, which includes:

  • Over-the-air (OTA) software updates
  • Multilingual voice commands
  • Call center-assisted navigation

The infotainment system features a 31.24 cm HD touchscreen with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay support.

Safety

Kia has equipped the Syros with a robust safety package, including:

  • ADAS Level 2: Sixteen autonomous and segment first features, such as Smart Cruise Control with stop-and-go functionality, Forward Collision Avoidance Assist, and Lane Keep Assist, enhance driver assistance.
  • Standard Safety Features: Dual airbags, ABS with EBD, ISOFIX child seat anchors, and rear parking sensors are offered across all trims. Higher trims add side and curtain airbags, improving overall safety.

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.

Variants and Customization

The Syros is available in multiple trims (HTK, HTK+, HTX, HTX+, HTX+ (O)) with increasing levels of features. Customization options include:

  • Interior Themes: Choices range from black and grey with orange accents to dual-tone grey interiors with matte orange highlights.
  • Exterior Colors: Eight monotone shades, such as Aurora Black Pearl and Intense Red, allow for personalization. However, the absence of dual-tone exterior color options might disappoint.

Our Verdict

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.

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