The new Kia Syros ticks all the right boxes on our five-point checklist. Here’s why this sub-compact SUV stands out as our ultimate choice.
By Team autoX
When it comes to choosing a car, personal preferences and practical needs play a huge role. As young automotive enthusiasts who value practicality, technology, and comfort, the new Kia Syros ticks all the right boxes on our five-point checklist. Here’s why this sub-compact SUV stands out as our ultimate choice.
Bold Yet Balanced
The Kia Syros strikes a fine balance between boldness and subtlety, commanding attention without being too loud. The signature tiger-nose grille, three-tier ice-cube LED headlamps, and 17-inch crystal-cut alloy wheels give it a sharp, modern face. Despite its SUV stance, the Syros feels compact and approachable – a perfect blend of ruggedness and urban elegance.
Step inside, and you are welcomed by a dual-tone cabin that’s both elegantly refined and uncluttered. The standout feature? A massive 30-inch Trinity panoramic display panel that seamlessly merges the infotainment screen, digital instrument cluster, and an innovative negative LCD touchscreen for HVAC controls. This integration ensures a clean, clutter-free dashboard layout. What’s even more impressive is that it gets over-the-air (OTA) updates for 16 mechanical control units – a first in this segment and typically reserved for premium cars. Add to that wireless charging, a 16-speaker Harman Kardon system, and ventilated front seats, and you’ve got a cabin that offers an unparalleled in-cabin experience in the segment.
Comfort for All
The Syros truly shines in terms of space. Whether it’s headroom, legroom, or shoulder room, it ensures comfort for all passengers. Rear seat adjustability – both sliding and reclining – is a segment-first feature that adds unmatched versatility. The addition of ventilated rear seats, dual Type-C charging ports, and rear AC vents makes every journey, long or short, more enjoyable for rear passengers. And with 465 litres of boot space, it’s ideal for weekend getaways and shopping sprees.
Fun Meets Practicality
The Syros comes with two engine options – petrol and diesel – but it’s the diesel that steals the show. The 1.5-litre turbocharged unit delivers 116bhp and 250Nm of torque, making it both torquey and refined. Mated to a six-speed automatic transmission, the engine offers a driving experience that’s both peppy and easygoing. It feels light and effortless to handle, making it a joy to drive in urban conditions.
ADAS: Added Peace of Mind
Safety is a key factor in any car-buying decision, and what sets the Syros apart are the 16 best-in-segment Level 2 ADAS features. Out of these, the three most important features, especially for Indian driving conditions, are: Forward Collision Avoidance Assist (crucial for navigating unpredictable traffic and protecting pedestrians and cyclists), Lane Keep Assist (enhances safety and reduces fatigue on long highway drives), and Smart Cruise Control (adds an extra layer of convenience and security in challenging conditions like fog).
The Kia Syros isn’t just another sub-compact SUV – it’s a thoughtfully engineered, well-rounded package that blends tech, style, practicality, and performance seamlessly at an affordable price point. From its standout design to its premium features and advanced safety tech, it checks all the boxes and does so effortlessly.